Get ready to transform your ordinary weeknight dinner into an extraordinary culinary journey with this tantalizing Harissa Chicken and Vegetables recipe! Imagine tender, crispy-skinned chicken thighs glazed with fiery harissa paste, nestled alongside perfectly roasted vegetables that burst with flavor. This North African-inspired dish isn't just a meal – it's a taste explosion that will transport your taste buds to exotic lands while keeping dinner preparation simple and delicious.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: North African
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on
- 2 tablespoons harissa paste
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 zucchini, sliced
- 1 onion, sliced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking and ease cleanup.
- Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels to ensure crispy skin. Season both sides generously with salt and pepper.
- In a small bowl, mix the harissa paste with 1 tablespoon of olive oil to create a smooth marinade. Generously coat each chicken thigh with the harissa mixture, ensuring even coverage.
- In a separate large mixing bowl, toss the sliced bell pepper, zucchini, and onion with the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Season the vegetables with salt and pepper.
- Arrange the seasoned vegetables on the prepared baking sheet in an even layer, creating space for the chicken thighs.
- Place the harissa-coated chicken thighs skin-side up on top of the vegetables, ensuring they are not overcrowded.
- Roast in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken skin is crispy and golden brown, and the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Remove from the oven and let the dish rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow juices to redistribute.
- Serve hot, with the roasted vegetables alongside the chicken, and optionally garnish with fresh herbs like chopped parsley or cilantro.
Tips
- • Pat the chicken thighs completely dry before seasoning to ensure that irresistibly crispy skin • Don't be afraid to be generous with the harissa paste – it's the star of this flavor show • Use a meat thermometer to check chicken doneness and avoid overcooking • For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in the harissa mixture for 30 minutes to 2 hours before cooking • Choose fresh, high-quality vegetables to complement the spicy chicken • Let the dish rest for 5 minutes after cooking to allow juices to redistribute, keeping the meat incredibly juicy • For a complete meal, serve with couscous, rice, or warm pita bread to soak up those delicious pan juices
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 8g
Protein: 28g
Fat: 26g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Cholesterol: 140mg
