Name: Harissa Chicken Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: North African
Ingredients: 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

Description

This Harissa Chicken recipe is a flavorful North African-inspired dish featuring tender, juicy chicken thighs marinated in a spicy harissa paste blended with aromatic spices. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, the chicken is cooked on the stovetop providing a deliciously charred and smoky taste with vibrant heat and citrusy brightness from lemon juice. Serve with rice, couscous, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken

2 pounds skinless chicken thighs

Spice Mix and Marinade

2 tablespoons harissa powder
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
2 tablespoons olive oil
Juice of 1 lemon
Salt, to taste

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Instructions

Prepare the Marinade: In a large bowl, combine the harissa powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika, olive oil, lemon juice, and salt. Mix well to create a smooth marinade that will coat the chicken evenly.
Marinate the Chicken: Add the skinless chicken thighs to the bowl and thoroughly coat each piece with the harissa spice marinade. Cover the bowl and let it marinate for at least 10 minutes to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat.
Heat the Pan: Place a large skillet or frying pan over medium-high heat and let it warm up. You can add a small amount of olive oil if needed to prevent sticking.
Cook the Chicken: Add the marinated chicken thighs to the hot pan in a single layer. Cook for about 8-10 minutes on each side until the chicken is cooked through, browned, and slightly charred on the edges. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) for safety. Remove from heat and let rest for a few minutes before serving.

Notes

For deeper flavor, marinate the chicken for 1-2 hours or overnight in the refrigerator.
Adjust the amount of harissa powder to control the spice level according to your preference.
This dish pairs well with rice, couscous, roasted vegetables, or a fresh green salad.
Use bone-in chicken thighs for juicier results but increase cooking time accordingly.
If harissa powder is unavailable, use harissa paste in equal amounts for a similar flavor profile.