Imagine a dish that transforms ordinary chicken into a culinary masterpiece, where bold Middle Eastern flavors meet fresh, creamy textures. This Harissa Baked Chicken with Avocado Salad isn't just a meal—it's a flavor explosion that will transport you straight to the vibrant streets of North Africa, all while keeping your dinner prep surprisingly simple and incredibly delicious. Get ready to impress your dinner guests and elevate your home cooking game with this show-stopping recipe that proves gourmet meals can be both easy and extraordinary!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 35 mins
Total Time: 50 mins
Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 chicken thighs
- 2 tablespoons harissa paste
- 1 avocado, diced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil for easy cleanup.
- Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels to ensure crispy skin. Place them on the prepared baking sheet.
- In a small bowl, mix harissa paste with 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Generously coat each chicken thigh with the harissa mixture, ensuring even coverage.
- Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper. Arrange them skin-side up on the baking sheet, leaving space between each piece for even cooking.
- Bake the chicken in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the skin is crispy and golden brown.
- While the chicken is baking, prepare the avocado salad. In a medium bowl, combine diced avocado and halved cherry tomatoes.
- Drizzle the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil over the avocado and tomato mixture. Gently toss to combine, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Once the chicken is cooked, remove from the oven and let rest for 5 minutes to allow juices to redistribute.
- Plate the harissa-baked chicken thighs and serve alongside the fresh avocado salad. Garnish with additional herbs like chopped parsley or cilantro if desired.
Tips
- Pat the chicken thighs completely dry before seasoning to ensure ultra-crispy skin.
- Use high-quality harissa paste for the most authentic and intense flavor profile.
- Don't overcrowd the baking sheet—give each chicken thigh space to ensure even cooking and crispy edges.
- Use a meat thermometer to check chicken's internal temperature for perfectly cooked, juicy meat.
- Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes after cooking to redistribute juices and maintain maximum tenderness.
- For extra flavor, try adding fresh herbs like mint or cilantro to your avocado salad.
- If you prefer less heat, choose a milder harissa paste or reduce the amount used.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 580kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: 51g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 110mg
