Harissa Butter Chicken

Harissa is a Tunisian chili paste with a vibrant red color.

Its flavor comes from roasted red and serrano peppers, garlic paste, caraway seeds, cumin, olive oil and lemon juice. Harissa paste is mild to moderately spicy, all depending on which brand you buy or you can try making it yourself by blending roasted chilies with aromatic spices for a custom flavor.

I chose a quality jarred harissa paste and created a delicious 5-ingredient Chicken recipe. (not including salt, pepper or herbs) Tasty and easy enough for a weekday meal but also special enough to serve when entertaining. I used a mild provolone, but you can use a sharp one, if you prefer. Adding the butter does soften the heat and you will love how velvety smooth the sauce is. You’re definitely going to want to serve this over some rice or couscous.

Harissa Butter Chicken

6 Boneless Skinless Chicken thighs

6 slices of Provolone Cheese (mild or sharp)

Salt and pepper

3 Tbsp. Harissa paste

2 tbsp. Butter, melted

1 ½ cups Chicken Stock

1 tbsp. fresh chopped oregano or mint

• Preheat oven to 400’.
• Pat dry chicken thighs and lay flat.
• Place a slice of provolone cheese on chicken and roll up
• Place chicken seam side down in a baking dish.
• Season with salt and pepper
• In a small mixing bowl combine Harissa, melted butter and chicken stock.
• Pour over chicken, sprinkle with chopped oregano or mint and place in oven.
• Roast for approximately 20 minutes or until chicken is cooked through at a temperature of 165’

*Serving suggestion: Plate with rice or couscous, roasted chickpeas and honeyed carrots.

*Note: If you can’t find Harissa paste in your local grocery store or specialty market, you can order online from @Amazon