One Pot Harissa Chicken and Butternut Squash Pilaf
It was beautiful tender vegetables and chicken full of flavour and delicious. We got harissa paste from Asda, but it wasn't their brand. The only thing is that the brown rice took a while.
It was beautiful tender vegetables and chicken full of flavour and delicious. We got harissa paste from Asda, but it wasn't their brand. The only thing is that the brown rice took a while.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion sliced
- 1 red pepper diced
- 2 tablespoons chopped parsley plus extra for garnish
- 1 1/8 pounds boneless chicken thigh fillets diced or breast fillets if you prefer
- 7/8 pound butternut squash diced
- 2 tablespoons harissa paste or to taste - i used tesco ingredie
- 2 9/16 cups chicken stock or vegetable stock if you want to m
- 1 9/16 cups brown rice
- Carbohydrate 58.109125 g
- Cholesterol 0 mg
- Fat 3.66916666739034 g
- Fiber 2.94666674931844 g
- Protein 5.77125 g
- Saturated Fat 0.635393333433258 g
- Serving Size 1 1 serving (329g)
- Sodium 4.05041666668114 mg
- Sugar 55.1624582506816 g
- Trans Fat 0.209439166686264 g
- Calories 290 calories
Step-by-step
- Add olive oil to a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
- Add the sliced onion and diced red pepper and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
- Stir in the chopped parsley.
- Add the diced chicken thighs (or breasts) and cook until browned on all sides.
- Add the diced butternut squash and harissa paste. Stir to coat.
- Pour in the chicken stock (or vegetable stock) and add the brown rice.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for approximately 45-50 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and the liquid is absorbed.
- Garnish with extra parsley before serving.
One Pot Harissa Chicken and Butternut Squash Pilaf: A Weeknight Wonder
As a busy working mom, I'm always on the lookout for quick, healthy, and flavorful meals that the whole family will enjoy. This One Pot Harissa Chicken and Butternut Squash Pilaf fits the bill perfectly. It’s a vibrant, one-pan wonder that's surprisingly easy to make, requiring minimal cleanup—a huge plus on a busy weeknight. The combination of sweet butternut squash, spicy harissa paste, and tender chicken creates a delicious and satisfying dish that's perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or a casual weekend lunch. Forget complicated recipes and endless chopping – this recipe simplifies things while delivering big on taste.
The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity. Everything cooks together in one pot, minimizing both dishes and cooking time. The harissa paste adds a delightful warmth and subtle spiciness, perfectly complementing the sweetness of the butternut squash and the savory chicken. I usually use chicken thighs for their richness and juiciness, but chicken breasts work just as well if you prefer leaner protein. Feel free to experiment with different types of rice, too; quinoa or couscous would be excellent substitutes. The vibrant colors alone make it a visually appealing meal, perfect for impressing guests or simply brightening your weeknight dinner routine. You can even prep the vegetables ahead of time to save even more time during the week.
Beyond the ease and flavor, this recipe offers a fantastic opportunity to introduce your family to new tastes and textures. Harissa paste, a North African spice blend, is incredibly versatile. Its smoky and slightly sweet flavor profile adds depth and complexity to any dish, effortlessly elevating the simplest ingredients. If you're not familiar with harissa, this recipe is a fantastic introduction. Start with a smaller amount and adjust to your taste; it's easily customizable to your spice preference. You can find harissa paste in most well-stocked supermarkets, or even make your own if you're feeling adventurous. The flexibility of this recipe makes it a true kitchen staple, easily adaptable to what you have on hand.
I often find myself adapting this recipe based on what’s in my fridge. Sometimes I add chickpeas for extra protein and fiber, other times I toss in some spinach or kale for added nutrients in the last few minutes of cooking. The possibilities are truly endless. The inherent adaptability is what makes this dish a regular in our meal rotation. It's a blank canvas for your culinary creativity, allowing you to personalize it to fit your dietary needs and preferences without compromising the deliciousness.
This One Pot Harissa Chicken and Butternut Squash Pilaf isn't just a meal; it's a testament to the power of simple ingredients and clever cooking techniques. It’s a perfect example of how a busy weeknight dinner can be both delicious and satisfying, without requiring hours of preparation or a mountain of dirty dishes. So next time you're looking for a quick, flavorful, and healthy meal, give this recipe a try. You won't be disappointed!
Tips and Variations:
- Spice Level: Adjust the amount of harissa paste according to your preference. Start with less and add more to taste.
- Vegetable Variations: Feel free to add other vegetables like zucchini, carrots, or bell peppers.
- Protein Options: Substitute chicken with turkey, sausage, or even chickpeas for a vegetarian option.
- Rice Alternatives: Experiment with quinoa, couscous, or other grains.
- Make it Ahead: You can prep the vegetables ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator until ready to cook.
- Leftovers: This dish reheats beautifully and tastes even better the next day!
This recipe truly is a lifesaver on those busy weeknights when you crave something flavorful and satisfying without the fuss. Enjoy!
