Description
Harissa Chicken is a flavorful and aromatic dish featuring tender chicken thighs marinated in a spicy North African-inspired harissa paste, then baked to juicy perfection. This easy-to-make recipe combines smoky paprika, cumin, and zesty lemon juice to deliver a vibrant and satisfying main course ideal for weeknight dinners or entertaining guests.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken and Marinade
- 2 pounds skinless chicken thighs
- 2 tablespoons harissa powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Salt, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Harissa Marinade: In a bowl, combine the harissa powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika, olive oil, lemon juice, and salt. Stir well until a thick, well-blended paste forms.
- Marinate the Chicken: Rub the harissa paste evenly over the chicken thighs. Alternatively, place the chicken and marinade in a large bowl or sealable bag and mix thoroughly to coat all pieces. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat.
- Bake the Chicken: Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil for easy cleanup. Arrange the marinated chicken thighs in a single layer on the baking sheet. Bake for 18–20 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the edges are slightly charred.
- Rest & Serve: Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes to retain its juices. Serve hot alongside rice, couscous, roasted vegetables, or flatbread for a complete meal.
Notes
- Marinating the chicken overnight will deepen the flavor even more.
- Use skin-on chicken thighs if preferred, adjusting cook time accordingly for crispier texture.
- Harissa powder can be substituted with harissa paste; reduce olive oil slightly if using paste.
- Check internal temperature with a meat thermometer to ensure chicken is fully cooked.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: North African
