Discover the irresistible flavors of harissa chicken, a dish that brings a taste of North Africa right to your kitchen. This recipe features tender chicken marinated in a spicy harissa paste, complemented by fresh vegetables. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, it’s sure to impress your family and friends with its rich, bold flavors.
Ingredients
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 4. Preparation time is 15 minutes, and cooking time is 45 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1 piece of chicken with vegetables) contains approximately 350 calories, 20g protein, 15g fat, and 30g carbohydrates.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a bowl, mix 4 tablespoons of harissa paste with 1 tablespoon of olive oil.
- Season the chicken with salt and pepper.
- Rub the harissa mixture over the chicken, ensuring it’s well coated.
- Place the chicken in a roasting pan.
- Chop 2 bell peppers, 1 onion, and 1 zucchini into bite-sized pieces.
- Scatter the chopped vegetables around the chicken.
- Drizzle the vegetables with olive oil and season with salt.
- Roast in the oven for 45 minutes, basting occasionally.
- Check that the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 75°C).
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute harissa with sriracha or another chili paste if needed, though the flavor will differ. For a milder version, use less harissa or add yogurt to the marinade.
Serving and Pairings
This dish pairs beautifully with couscous, rice, or a fresh salad. For a complete meal, serve with roasted vegetables or a tangy yogurt sauce.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through. This dish can also be frozen for up to 3 months.
Cooking Mistakes
- Using too much harissa can overpower the dish.
- Not allowing the chicken to marinate long enough can lessen flavor.
- Overcooking the chicken can make it dry.
- Not basting the chicken regularly can lead to uneven cooking.
- Skipping the vegetable prep can result in a less balanced dish.
Helpful Tips
- Let the chicken marinate for at least 1 hour for deeper flavor.
- Use bone-in chicken for moist, tender meat.
- Experiment with different vegetables based on what you have.
- Serve with fresh herbs for added flavor.
FAQs
Can I use boneless chicken for this recipe?
Yes, boneless chicken can be used, but reduce the cooking time to avoid drying it out.
What is harissa?
Harissa is a North African chili paste made from roasted red peppers, spices, and herbs, providing a spicy and aromatic flavor.
Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! Combine all ingredients in a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
Is harissa chicken spicy?
The spice level can vary based on the amount of harissa used. You can adjust it to your taste preferences.
What should I serve with harissa chicken?
It pairs well with couscous, rice, and salads, providing a balanced and nutritious meal.
Conclusion
Harissa chicken is a flavorful dish that brings a delightful spice to your dinner table. With its simple preparation and bold flavors, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy this culinary journey and impress your guests with this exotic meal!
Harissa Chicken Recipe
Ingredients
- 4 tablespoons harissa paste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 4 pieces chicken bone-in preferred
- 2 bell peppers chopped
- 1 onion chopped
- 1 zucchini chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a bowl, mix harissa paste with olive oil.
- Season the chicken with salt and pepper.
- Rub the harissa mixture over the chicken.
- Place the chicken in a roasting pan.
- Add chopped vegetables around the chicken.
- Drizzle vegetables with olive oil and season with salt.
- Roast in the oven for 45 minutes, basting occasionally.
- Check that the chicken is cooked through (165°F or 75°C).
- Serve hot with your choice of sides.
Nutrition
