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Close-up of Slow-Cooker Creamy Harissa Chicken in a bowl with cilantro, served with rice.

Slow-Cooker Creamy Harissa Chicken

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Tender chicken thighs simmered to perfection in a rich, creamy sauce infused with smoky, spicy harissa, fragrant garlic, and sweet roasted red peppers. An effortless weeknight meal bursting with exotic flavors.

  • Total Time: 3 hours 15 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale

28 oz can diced tomatoes, undrained
12 oz jar roasted red peppers, drained and roughly chopped
3-4 tbsp harissa paste (adjust to taste)
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp smoked paprika
1/2 tsp ground cumin
Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
4 oz cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup heavy cream (or full-fat coconut milk for dairy-free)
Fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped, for garnish (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: In your slow cooker, combine the diced tomatoes (undrained), roasted red peppers (drained and roughly chopped), harissa paste, minced garlic, dried oregano, smoked paprika, cumin, and a pinch of salt and black pepper. Whisk everything together until well combined.
Step 2: Add the boneless, skinless chicken thighs to the slow cooker, nestling them into the sauce mixture. Ensure the chicken is mostly submerged, turning to coat evenly.
Step 3: Cover the slow cooker and cook on LOW for 6-7 hours or on HIGH for 3-4 hours, or until the chicken is fork-tender and easily shreds. The exact cooking time may vary depending on your appliance.
Step 4: Once the chicken is cooked, carefully remove the chicken thighs from the slow cooker and place them on a cutting board. Using two forks, shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces. Set aside.
Step 5: Add the softened cream cheese and heavy cream to the sauce remaining in the slow cooker. Whisk vigorously until the cream cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
Step 6: Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker and stir to combine, ensuring all the chicken is coated in the luxurious creamy harissa sauce.
Step 7: Serve immediately, garnished with fresh cilantro or parsley, if desired.

Notes

Leftovers of this Slow-Cooker Creamy Harissa Chicken are fantastic! Store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. I love using Basics Glass Food Storage containers for easy reheating.

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 3 hours (high) or 6 hours (low)
  • Category: Main Dishes & Savory Recipes
  • Cuisine: Mediterranean

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving (approx. 1.5 cups)
  • Calories: 480 kcal
  • Sugar: 6 g
  • Sodium: 580 mg
  • Fat: 35 g
  • Saturated Fat: 18 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 15 g
  • Trans Fat: 0.5 g
  • Carbohydrates: 15 g
  • Fiber: 3 g
  • Protein: 28 g
  • Cholesterol: 145 mg
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