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Moroccan Harissa Chicken

Tangy Moroccan Harissa Chicken with Fresh Mint Chimichurri

A quick and gluten-free recipe showcasing bold Moroccan Harissa Chicken that delights the palate with a fresh mint chimichurri.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Moroccan
Calories: 380

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken
  • 4 pieces Bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs or breasts/drumsticks as substitutes
  • 2 tablespoons Harissa Paste store-bought or homemade
  • 1 teaspoon Smoked Paprika
  • 1 teaspoon Ground Cumin
  • 1 teaspoon Ground Coriander
  • 3 cloves Garlic minced
  • 2 tablespoons Lemon Juice
  • 1 teaspoon Lemon Zest
  • 2 tablespoons Olive Oil for marinade
  • 1 teaspoon Salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper
For the Mint Chimichurri
  • 1/2 cup Fresh Mint
  • 1/2 cup Fresh Cilantro
  • 1/2 cup Fresh Parsley
  • 1 small Shallot chopped
  • 1 clove Garlic chopped
  • 2 tablespoons Red Wine Vinegar
  • 1/2 teaspoon Red Pepper Flakes adjust to taste
  • 1/4 cup Olive Oil

Equipment

  • Skillet
  • Mixing Bowl
  • Food Processor

Method
 

Step‑by‑Step Instructions
  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine harissa paste, smoked paprika, ground cumin, ground coriander, minced garlic, lemon juice, lemon zest, olive oil, salt, and black pepper. Add chicken thighs, coat well, cover, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
  2. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat with a drizzle of olive oil. Sear the chicken skin-side down for 5 to 7 minutes until golden brown. Flip and brown the other side for 4 to 5 minutes.
  3. Transfer the skillet to a preheated oven at 375°F. Bake for 15 to 20 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
  4. Prepare the chimichurri by blending mint, cilantro, parsley, shallot, garlic, red wine vinegar, red pepper flakes, and olive oil in a food processor until coarse.
  5. Serve the Moroccan Harissa Chicken over rice or couscous, drizzled with mint chimichurri and garnished with lemon wedges.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 380kcalCarbohydrates: 10gProtein: 30gFat: 22gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 15gCholesterol: 120mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 450mgFiber: 2gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 15IUVitamin C: 20mgCalcium: 3mgIron: 10mg

Notes

Marinating overnight enhances flavor. Use a meat thermometer for perfect cooking. Searing first creates crispy skin.

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