If you’re looking to spice up your regular dinner routine, Harissa Chicken Pasta is the perfect choice. This dish combines tender chicken, al dente pasta, and a rich, creamy harissa sauce that is packed with flavor. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or feeding the whole family, this meal can be on your table in just 30 minutes. It’s vibrant, comforting, and has just the right kick of heat to make your taste buds dance.
Why We Love This Harissa Chicken Pasta Recipe
Harissa Chicken Pasta isn’t just another pasta dish. It’s a weeknight lifesaver that brings both ease and excitement to your dinner table. The harissa paste adds a smoky, spicy depth that balances beautifully with the creamy mascarpone and sharp Parmesan. The cherry tomatoes burst with sweetness in every bite, while the fresh parsley adds a touch of freshness. You get a perfect combination of textures and flavors that feels indulgent but is surprisingly simple to prepare. Once you try it, you’ll find yourself coming back to this recipe again and again, whether for a quick dinner or a special midweek treat.
Ingredients You’ll Need for Harissa Chicken Pasta
Cooking this dish is straightforward, and the ingredients are easy to find in most grocery stores. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 10.5 oz (300 g) pasta
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 lb (450 g) chicken breast, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 medium shallot, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 12 cherry tomatoes, halved
- ⅓ cup (75 ml) dry white wine
- 3 tablespoons harissa paste
- 1 cup (250 ml) chicken stock
- ½ cup (125 g) mascarpone
- ⅓ cup (30 g) Parmesan, grated
- A handful of fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper, to taste
How to Make Harissa Chicken Pasta
Cooking Harissa Chicken Pasta is simple, and the steps are easy to follow, even if you’re a beginner in the kitchen. Start by cooking your pasta according to package instructions until it reaches a perfect al dente texture. Be sure to save 1–2 cups of the pasta water before draining—it’s perfect for adjusting the sauce later.
In a large pan, heat olive oil and butter over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook until they turn golden brown, about 5–7 minutes. The chicken should be slightly crispy on the outside but juicy on the inside. Next, add the diced shallot and minced garlic, sautéing them for 2–3 minutes until fragrant and softened.
Add the halved cherry tomatoes and cook until they start to soften, releasing their natural sweetness. Pour in the white wine and let it simmer until mostly evaporated. This step adds a subtle depth to the sauce without overpowering the harissa flavor.
Stir in the harissa paste and chicken stock, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer. After a minute or two, add the mascarpone and mix until smooth and creamy. Toss in the cooked pasta, ensuring every piece is coated with the flavorful sauce. If it looks too thick, a splash of the reserved pasta water will loosen it beautifully.
Finish by stirring in the Parmesan and fresh parsley. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Serve immediately for the best experience—the sauce is richest when hot, and the textures are at their peak.
How to Serve Harissa Chicken Pasta
Serving Harissa Chicken Pasta is as simple as cooking it. This dish shines when served hot and fresh from the pan. Plate it in a wide, shallow bowl to showcase the creamy sauce and colorful cherry tomatoes. Garnish with extra Parmesan and parsley for an inviting finish.
For a complete meal, pair it with a simple green salad or roasted vegetables. A side of crusty bread works beautifully to mop up any leftover sauce. This pasta also keeps well for quick lunches, though it’s always best enjoyed right after cooking when the sauce is silky and the chicken is tender.
Expert Tips for Perfect Harissa Chicken Pasta
Cooking this dish to perfection is easier with a few professional tips. First, make sure your chicken is cut into uniform pieces. This ensures even cooking and prevents smaller pieces from drying out. Use a mix of butter and olive oil when cooking the chicken for a richer, golden finish.
When adding the harissa paste, adjust the amount to suit your spice tolerance—start with less if you prefer a milder flavor. Reserving pasta water is key: it helps loosen the sauce and bind it to the pasta perfectly. For an even creamier finish, add the mascarpone off the heat to prevent curdling. Finally, don’t rush the garnishing step—fresh parsley adds color, flavor, and a hint of freshness that balances the richness of the sauce.
How to Store Harissa Chicken Pasta
If you have leftovers, storing Harissa Chicken Pasta is simple. Place the pasta in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 2–3 days. When reheating, add a splash of chicken stock or water to bring back the creamy texture of the sauce. Avoid microwaving for too long, as this can dry out the chicken and make the pasta sticky. This dish can also be frozen for up to a month, though it’s best enjoyed fresh to maintain its vibrant flavors and creamy consistency.
Variations of Harissa Chicken Pasta
There are plenty of ways to put your own twist on this recipe. Swap the chicken for shrimp or tofu for a protein variation. Use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta to suit dietary needs. Add extra vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach for a more nutrient-packed dish. You can also experiment with different cheeses—try a soft goat cheese or a tangy feta for a new flavor profile. For a creamier sauce, stir in a bit of cream or crème fraîche along with the mascarpone.
You can even adjust the heat level by mixing harissa with a mild tomato sauce if you prefer less spice. Each variation keeps the core flavors intact while allowing you to personalize the dish according to your taste.
Frequently Asked Questions About Harissa Chicken Pasta
What is harissa paste?
Harissa is a North African chili paste made from roasted red peppers, spices, and olive oil. It adds a smoky, spicy depth to your dishes.
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, you can use any pasta shape you like. Penne, fusilli, or spaghetti all work well. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions.
How spicy is Harissa Chicken Pasta?
The heat level depends on the amount of harissa you use. Start with less if you prefer a milder flavor, and add more to taste.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
You can prep the ingredients in advance, but it’s best to cook and serve immediately for the creamiest sauce and juiciest chicken.
What can I serve with Harissa Chicken Pasta?
A fresh green salad, roasted vegetables, or crusty bread complement this dish perfectly. You can also add a squeeze of lemon to brighten the flavors.
Harissa Chicken Pasta
Equipment
- Large Pan
- Pot for Boiling Pasta
- Cooking utensils
Ingredients
- 10.5 oz pasta
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 lb chicken breast cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 medium shallot diced
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 12 pieces cherry tomatoes halved
- ⅓ cup dry white wine
- 3 tablespoons harissa paste
- 1 cup chicken stock
- ½ cup mascarpone
- ⅓ cup Parmesan grated
- as needed fresh parsley chopped
- to taste salt and pepper
Instructions
- Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1-2 cups of pasta water before draining.
- In a large pan, heat olive oil and butter over medium heat. Add chicken pieces and cook until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add diced shallot and minced garlic, sauté for 2-3 minutes until fragrant.
- Stir in halved cherry tomatoes and cook until softened. Pour in white wine and simmer until mostly evaporated.
- Stir in harissa paste and chicken stock, bringing to a gentle simmer. Add mascarpone and mix until smooth.
- Toss in cooked pasta, mixing well. Use reserved pasta water to adjust sauce consistency if needed.
- Finish by stirring in Parmesan and fresh parsley. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve immediately.
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