One Pot Harissa Chicken and Butternut Squash Pilaf
Try this One Pot Harissa Chicken and Butternut Squash Pilaf recipe
Try this One Pot Harissa Chicken and Butternut Squash Pilaf recipe
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, sliced
- 1 red pepper diced
- 500 g boneless chicken thigh fillets diced (or breast fillets if you prefer)
- 400 g butternut squash diced
- 2 tablespoons harissa paste (or to taste - i used tesco ingredie which is quite mild)
- 600 ml chicken stock (or vegetable stock if you want to m
- 300 g brown rice
- 2 tablespoons chopped parsley plus extra for garnish
- Carbohydrate 68.93777 g
- Cholesterol 0 mg
- Fat 3.81251000072367 g
- Fiber 4.61270007061958 g
- Protein 6.68143 g
- Saturated Fat 0.658518000099924 g
- Serving Size 1 1 Serving (304g)
- Sodium 8.09775000001447 mg
- Sugar 64.3250699293804 g
- Trans Fat 0.240738500019597 g
- Calories 332 calories
Step-by-step
- Place the olive oil, onions and peppers in a large frying pan or sauté pan and fry gently for 3 minutes with the lid on until softened, but not browned.
- Remove the lid and turn up the heat. Add the chicken and fry for 3 minutes or until the chicken and vegetables have browned a little.
- Add the harissa paste, butternut squash, stock and rice and mix together thoroughly.
- Bring to the boil, then turn down to a low simmer and cover with a lid.
- Cook for 20 minutes or until all the stock has been absorbed and the rice and butternut squash are tender.
- Add the parsley and serve scattered with more parsley and accompanied by a glass of Sauvignon Blanc or Garnacha.
One-Pot Harissa Chicken and Butternut Squash Pilaf: A Weeknight Winner
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 has become a recent favorite, and for good reason! It's incredibly simple to make, requiring minimal cleanup (a huge plus!), and bursting with vibrant flavors that transport you to a sun-drenched Mediterranean kitchen. The harissa paste adds a delicious warmth and subtle spice that’s perfectly balanced by the sweetness of the butternut squash. This dish is so versatile; you can easily adjust the spice level to your preference, and the addition of some chickpeas or other vegetables would also be fantastic.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. Everything cooks together in one pot, making it perfect for those busy weeknights when you don't have a lot of time or energy to spend slaving over a hot stove. I often prep the vegetables ahead of time, storing them in airtight containers in the refrigerator, so that on a busy evening, I can simply toss everything together and let it simmer. The aroma that wafts through the kitchen as it cooks is absolutely divine, building anticipation for a delicious and satisfying meal.
Beyond the Weeknight: While this is a fantastic weeknight meal, don't limit yourself! This dish is also perfect for a casual weekend lunch or even a light dinner party. The vibrant colors and inviting aroma make it a real conversation starter. I've served this pilaf with a simple green salad and crusty bread, and it's equally delightful on its own. The leftover are also fantastic cold, making it a perfect lunch for the following day. It’s so much more flavorful cold, even more so! The subtle spice from the harissa and the sweetness from the butternut squash make this dish a weeknight or weekend staple for me and my family.
Tips and Variations:
- Spice Level: Adjust the amount of harissa paste to your liking. If you're sensitive to spice, start with one tablespoon and add more to taste. For a spicier kick, double the amount.
- Protein Swap: Feel free to substitute the chicken with other proteins like chickpeas, lentils, or even tofu for a vegetarian option.
- Vegetable Variations: Add other vegetables such as chopped carrots, zucchini, or bell peppers to enhance the flavor and nutritional value.
- Rice Options: While brown rice is used in the original recipe, you can experiment with other types of rice, such as basmati or wild rice.
- Garnish: A sprinkle of toasted nuts, like almonds or pistachios, would add a delightful crunch and nutty flavor. A squeeze of lemon juice just before serving adds a welcome zing.
This One-Pot Harissa Chicken and Butternut Squash Pilaf is more than just a recipe; it’s a testament to the power of simple, delicious food. It’s a meal that nourishes the body and soul, a comfort food that’s both easy and elegant. I hope you’ll give it a try and discover for yourself why it’s become a weekly staple in my kitchen.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve with a side of crusty bread for soaking up the delicious sauce.
- Pair it with a simple green salad for a complete and balanced meal.
- Add a dollop of plain yogurt or crème fraîche for a creamy and cooling element.
- Enjoy it with a glass of crisp white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc, or a light-bodied red, such as Garnacha.
Recipe Notes:
- Make sure to dice the chicken and butternut squash into similarly sized pieces to ensure even cooking.
- Don't be afraid to experiment with different herbs and spices to personalize the dish to your taste.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
