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Moroccan Harissa Chicken with Mint Chimichurri

Savor Moroccan Harissa Chicken with Zesty Mint Chimichurri

This Moroccan Harissa Chicken with Mint Chimichurri combines bold flavors and a refreshing finish, making it a must-try dish.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Marination Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 25 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Moroccan
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken
  • 4 pieces Chicken Thighs, skin-on, bone-in You can also use chicken breasts or drumsticks for a lighter option.
  • 2 tablespoons Harissa Paste Provides that essential smoky heat.
  • 1 tablespoon Smoked Paprika Adds a beautiful depth and warmth.
  • 1 teaspoon Ground Cumin Contributes lovely earthiness.
  • 1 teaspoon Ground Coriander Enhances the flavor with citrusy notes.
  • 4 cloves Garlic, minced Infuses a robust aroma.
  • 1 tablespoon Lemon Juice Brightens the flavors.
  • 1 tablespoon Lemon Zest Opt for fresh lemons.
  • 2 tablespoons Olive Oil Use high-quality extra virgin.
  • 1 teaspoon Salt Adjust according to your preference.
  • 0.5 teaspoon Black Pepper Essential seasoning.
For the Mint Chimichurri
  • 1 cup Fresh Mint Leaves No substitutes recommended.
  • 0.5 cup Fresh Cilantro You can swap it for parsley.
  • 0.5 cup Fresh Parsley Feel free to replace it with extra cilantro or mint.
  • 1 small Shallot, finely chopped You can use red onion if shallots are unavailable.
  • 1 tablespoon Red Wine Vinegar Adds necessary acidity.
  • 0.5 teaspoon Red Pepper Flakes Optional for those who enjoy a bit of heat.
Optional Serving Suggestions
  • Cooked Couscous or Rice Perfect for soaking up the sauce.
  • Roasted Moroccan Vegetables Carrots, zucchini, and bell peppers.
  • Yogurt or Labneh A dollop of creaminess.

Equipment

  • Skillet
  • food processor
  • Instant Pot

Method
 

Marinating and Cooking Chicken
  1. In a mixing bowl, combine harissa paste, smoked paprika, ground cumin, ground coriander, minced garlic, lemon zest, lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and black pepper. Rub the marinade all over the chicken thighs. Cover and let marinate for at least 30 minutes, preferably overnight.
  2. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat with a touch of olive oil. Sear chicken thighs skin-side down for about 5-7 minutes until golden brown. Flip and cook for another 4-5 minutes.
  3. If your skillet is oven-safe, transfer to a preheated oven at 375°F and bake for about 15-20 minutes until internal temperature reaches 165°F. Alternatively, for Instant Pot, sauté first then pressure cook.
Preparing Mint Chimichurri
  1. In a food processor, combine mint leaves, cilantro, parsley, chopped shallot, minced garlic, red pepper flakes, red wine vinegar, and olive oil. Process until coarse. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
Serving the Dish
  1. Once the chicken is cooked, plate over couscous or rice and drizzle with the mint chimichurri. Garnish with a lemon wedge.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 10gProtein: 30gFat: 32gSaturated Fat: 6gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 22gCholesterol: 100mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 1gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 1000IUVitamin C: 20mgCalcium: 50mgIron: 3mg

Notes

Marinate chicken overnight for maximum flavor. Ensure to check internal temperature before serving.

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