If you’re searching for a meal that brings a bold, fiery kick and unforgettable flavor, look no further than Harissa Chicken (Spicy North African Chicken). This simple yet absolutely show-stopping dish is made with juicy chicken thighs coated in a sultry harissa spice blend, transforming everyday ingredients into a dinner that feels truly special. Trust me, once you taste the magical combo of smoky spices, zesty lemon, and that irresistible heat, Harissa Chicken (Spicy North African Chicken) will be your new go-to for weeknights, meal prep, or dinner parties alike!
Ingredients You’ll Need
One of my favorite things about this recipe is how it relies on a handful of punchy, easy-to-find ingredients. Each one plays its part—delivering just the right amount of heat, depth, smokiness, and tang to make Harissa Chicken (Spicy North African Chicken) completely crave-worthy.
- Chicken Thighs: Juicy, boneless thighs ensure the chicken stays tender and soaks up every bit of flavor.
- Olive Oil: Adds richness and helps create a luscious, caramelized coating on the chicken.
- Harissa Powder: The star of the show! This North African spice blend delivers complex heat and vibrant color.
- Smoked Paprika: Accentuates the smokiness and deepens the overall flavor profile.
- Cumin: Brings earthy, toasty notes that balance beautifully with the other spices.
- Cayenne Pepper: Kicks up the spice level; adjust depending on your heat preference.
- Lemon Juice: Brightens everything up with a tangy pop and tenderizes the meat while marinating.
How to Make Harissa Chicken (Spicy North African Chicken)
Step 1: Make the Marinade
Start by mixing olive oil, harissa powder, smoked paprika, cumin, cayenne, and lemon juice in a small bowl. Stir it into a thick, chili-flecked paste—you should already be catching those gorgeous, aromatic notes as you mix! This blend is a flavor bomb waiting to transform your chicken.
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
Coat your boneless chicken thighs generously with the paste. For the easiest clean-up, you can use a bowl or toss everything into a large resealable bag. Take the time to rub and massage the marinade all over each piece—this not only locks in moisture but also ensures each bite is packed with punchy spices. Got time? Let it marinate for at least an hour (or even overnight in the fridge) to really let those flavors sink in.
Step 3: Prepare for Baking
Preheat your oven to 425F. Meanwhile, line a baking tray with parchment paper or foil to keep things tidy. Arrange the marinated chicken in a single, even layer on your prepared tray, making sure each thigh has its own space for even roasting.
Step 4: Roast to Perfection
Bake the chicken for 18 to 20 minutes. To know when it’s ready, check that the internal temperature reaches at least 165F with a meat thermometer—this ensures juicy, safe-to-eat chicken every time. The edges will caramelize and become deliciously crisp, while the inside stays oh-so-tender.
Step 5: Rest and Serve
Once out of the oven, let your Harissa Chicken (Spicy North African Chicken) rest for a few minutes. This gives the juices time to settle back into the meat, so every slice is succulent and flavorful. Then, get ready to wow your table!
How to Serve Harissa Chicken (Spicy North African Chicken)
Garnishes
Sprinkle freshly chopped cilantro or parsley over the chicken for a burst of herby brightness. A few lemon wedges on the side not only add color but also let diners squeeze on extra zestiness. Toasted sesame seeds or a dollop of creamy yogurt make the dish look—and taste—even more inviting.
Side Dishes
Harissa Chicken (Spicy North African Chicken) shines brightest when served alongside fluffy couscous, warm flatbreads, or even simple roast veggies. I adore piling the spicy chicken atop a bed of herbed rice, or serving it with a crisp salad for a lighter touch. The flavors also play beautifully with cooling cucumber raita or a citrusy tabbouleh.
Creative Ways to Present
Change things up by slicing the chicken and tucking it into wraps or pita pockets with crunchy slaw. You can even chop the chicken into cubes, skewer with veggies, and serve as vibrant kebabs. For parties, arrange the chicken in small pieces over mini naan bread for an irresistible appetizer platter.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover Harissa Chicken (Spicy North African Chicken) in an airtight container in the fridge, where it will stay fresh and tasty for up to 3 or 4 days. Perfect for easy grab-and-go options like salads, wraps, or rice bowls all week long!
Freezing
To freeze, simply let the cooked chicken cool completely, then transfer to freezer-safe bags or containers. Label with the date and it’ll keep its flavor and texture for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to revisit that luscious, spicy goodness, you’ll be just a defrost away.
Reheating
Gently reheat Harissa Chicken (Spicy North African Chicken) in a covered dish in the oven at 350F until warmed through, or use the microwave on medium power to avoid drying out the meat. A splash of water or broth added before reheating can help preserve juiciness.
FAQs
Is this dish very spicy?
The beauty of Harissa Chicken (Spicy North African Chicken) is that you control the heat! Adjust the cayenne and harissa to align with your spice comfort—start small if you’re sensitive, or be bold if you love it hot.
Can I use harissa paste instead of powder?
Absolutely! Substitute an equal amount of harissa paste and reduce the olive oil accordingly, since the paste already contains oil. The result is just as vibrant and flavorful.
What other cuts of chicken work well?
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or even drumsticks can be used—just watch the cook time as they may need a few extra minutes in the oven to reach the right temperature.
How can I make it dairy-free or gluten-free?
Great news: this recipe is naturally dairy-free and gluten-free as written! That makes Harissa Chicken (Spicy North African Chicken) a crowd-pleaser for many dietary needs.
What can I do with leftover chicken?
Leftover harissa chicken is incredibly versatile—add it to salads, sandwiches, grain bowls, or even toss with veggies for a spicy stir-fry. It’s one of those rare dishes that tastes just as good (if not better) on day two!
Final Thoughts
With just a handful of ingredients and a few easy steps, you can bring the warmth and excitement of Harissa Chicken (Spicy North African Chicken) to your table tonight. This dish is delightfully simple yet bursting with global flair—I can’t wait for you to try it and make it your own!
Print
Harissa Chicken (Spicy North African Chicken) Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: African
- Diet: Halal
Description
Harissa Chicken Thighs is a spicy and flavorful dish made with harissa chile paste, offering a deliciously complex taste that can be adjusted to suit varying spice preferences.
Ingredients
For the Harissa Paste:
- 4 boneless chicken thighs
- 2 teaspoons olive oil
- 3 tablespoons harissa powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions
- Mix the Paste: In a small bowl, combine olive oil, harissa powder, lemon juice, smoked paprika, cumin, and cayenne pepper to create a thick paste.
- Coat the Chicken: Rub the paste all over the chicken thighs or marinate them in the paste in a sealed bag or bowl, ensuring even coverage.
- Marinate: Allow the chicken to marinate for at least an hour in the refrigerator.
- Preheat and Bake: Preheat the oven to 425°F. Line a baking tray with foil, place the chicken in a single layer, and bake for 18-20 minutes.
- Check Doneness: Verify the chicken’s internal temperature reaches 165°F with a meat thermometer.
- Rest and Serve: Let the chicken rest briefly before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken thigh
- Calories: 289 kcal
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 420mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 150mg
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