Harissa Chicken (Spicy North African Chicken) Recipe
Harissa Chicken is a flavorful North African-inspired dish featuring tender boneless chicken thighs marinated in a spicy blend of harissa powder, smoked paprika, cumin, cayenne pepper, olive oil, and lemon juice. Baked to perfection in the oven, this dish delivers a perfect balance of heat and aromatic spices, making it an ideal main course for a bold and delicious meal.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: North African
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken
- 4 boneless chicken thighs
Harissa Marinade
- 2 tsp olive oil
- 3 tbsp harissa powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp cumin
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a small bowl, combine olive oil, harissa powder, smoked paprika, cumin, cayenne pepper, and lemon juice to create a thick, vibrant spice paste.
- Coat the Chicken: Rub the harissa paste evenly over the boneless chicken thighs, or alternatively, place both the chicken and marinade into a large bowl or sealable bag and toss or shake to ensure thorough coverage.
- Marinate: Allow the chicken to marinate for at least one hour to absorb the flavors and tenderize the meat. For best results, marinate longer if time permits.
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 425°F (220°C) and allow it to fully heat before cooking the chicken.
- Prepare the Baking Tray: Line a baking tray or rimmed baking sheet with aluminum foil or parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier. Arrange the marinated chicken thighs in a single layer.
- Bake the Chicken: Place the baking tray in the preheated oven and bake for 18-20 minutes. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature, ensuring it reads at least 165°F (74°C) to confirm the chicken is fully cooked.
- Rest the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This helps retain the juices and enhances tenderness.
Notes
- You can increase or decrease the cayenne pepper amount to adjust the spice level based on your preference.
- For more intense flavor, marinate the chicken overnight in the refrigerator.
- Serve with couscous, rice, or a fresh salad to complement the spicy chicken.
- Ensure the chicken is cooked to the proper internal temperature to avoid any food safety issues.
Keywords: Harissa chicken, North African chicken, spicy chicken, baked chicken thighs, harissa marinade