What is harissa and what ingredients are in it?

Harissa is a spicy chili paste originating from North Africa, especially Tunisia. It typically includes dried red chili peppers, garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, and warm spices like cumin, coriander, and caraway seeds. The paste is known for its smoky, slightly tangy, and aromatic flavor, which adds depth to dishes such as harissa chicken.

How long should I marinate chicken in harissa paste for best flavor?

For the best flavor, marinate the chicken in harissa paste for at least 30 minutes and up to 2 hours. If you have more time, marinating up to 24 hours can deepen the flavor further. However, even a quick marinate or applying the paste right before cooking will yield a tasty result.

Can I use store-bought harissa paste for making harissa chicken?

Yes, store-bought harissa paste works well, but keep in mind the flavor can vary between brands. It may be saltier or spicier than homemade versions, so start with a smaller amount and adjust to taste. This helps avoid overpowering the chicken and keeps the spice level just right.

What are easy side dishes to serve with harissa chicken?

Harissa chicken pairs nicely with Mediterranean-inspired sides such as couscous, roasted vegetables, grilled pita bread, or fresh salads like cucumber and tomato. You can also serve it over rice or with yogurt-based sauces, which help balance the heat from the harissa.

Can I freeze harissa marinated chicken or leftover cooked harissa chicken?

Yes, you can freeze both harissa-marinated raw chicken and cooked harissa chicken. For marinated chicken, freeze it in an airtight container or freezer bag, then thaw in the refrigerator before cooking. Cooked harissa chicken can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months; reheat gently to prevent dryness.

Harissa Chicken with Grilled Shrimp and Steak Stir Fry

Name: harissa chicken
Prep time: PT-486815H27M41S
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 32 min
Cuisine: North African
Ingredients: 8 boneless, skinless chicken thighs; 5 to 6 tablespoons harissa paste; 10 large garlic cloves, minced; ½ sliced red onion; 1½ teaspoons ground coriander; 1½ teaspoons black pepper; 1 teaspoon ground cumin or sweet paprika; 1 teaspoon ground caraway seeds; ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper; Juice of 1 lemon; Olive oil

Description

🌶️ Harissa Chicken delivers a bold, spicy flavor that enhances tender chicken thighs, perfect for grilling or pan-cooking.
🍋 This recipe offers a versatile and vibrant dish that pairs beautifully with grilled shrimp and steak for a flavorful stir fry twist.

Ingredients

Scale

8 boneless, skinless chicken thighs

5 to 6 tablespoons harissa paste

10 large garlic cloves, minced

½ sliced red onion

1½ teaspoons ground coriander

1½ teaspoons black pepper

1 teaspoon ground cumin or sweet paprika

1 teaspoon ground caraway seeds

½ teaspoon cayenne pepper

Juice of 1 lemon

Olive oil

Instructions

First Step: Prepare Ingredients and Marinade Trim excess fat from 8 chicken thighs and pat dry with paper towels. In a large mixing bowl, combine 5 to 6 tablespoons harissa paste, 10 minced garlic cloves, sliced red onion, ground coriander, black pepper, cumin (or sweet paprika), caraway seeds, optional cayenne pepper, lemon juice, and a generous drizzle of olive oil. Mix well to create a vibrant marinade.

Second Step: Marinate the Chicken Coat the chicken thighs evenly with the harissa marinade, pressing gently to cover all surfaces. For best results, let the chicken marinate for 30 minutes up to 2 hours, or refrigerate overnight for deeper flavors.

Third Step: Preheat the Cooking Surface Heat a grill, indoor griddle, or skillet to medium-high heat (400–450°F / 204–232°C). Lightly oil the cooking surface to prevent sticking.

Fourth Step: Cook the Chicken Place the marinated chicken on the preheated surface and cook for 6–7 minutes on each side, turning to ensure even browning, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer to guarantee safe and juicy results.

Fifth Step: Rest and Serve Remove cooked chicken from heat and let rest for 5 minutes to seal in juices. Serve with cooling accompaniments like yogurt sauce, fresh dill or parsley, and sides such as rice or flatbread to complement the spicy flavor.

Notes

🕒 Marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to deeply infuse.
🌿 Serve with yogurt sauce or fresh herbs like dill or parsley to balance the heat.
🔥 Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches 165°F for juicy, safe results.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Marinating Time: 30 minutes to 24 hours
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Grilling, Pan-Cooking
Cuisine: North African

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 chicken thigh
Calories: 200 kcal
Sugar: 1.3 g
Sodium: 332 mg
Fat: 7 g
Saturated Fat: 1.7 g
Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
Trans Fat: 0 g
Carbohydrates: 3 g
Fiber: 0.5 g
Protein: 27 g
Cholesterol: 102 mg

Keywords: Harissa Chicken, Grilled Shrimp, Steak, Stir Fry