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Moroccan Harissa Chicken with Mint Chimichurri

Zesty Moroccan Harissa Chicken with Mint Chimichurri Bliss

Experience the bold flavors of Moroccan Harissa Chicken with Mint Chimichurri in this vibrant and easy recipe.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Marination Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 35 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Lunch
Cuisine: Moroccan
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken
  • 4 pieces Chicken Thighs (skin-on, bone-in) Can substitute with chicken breasts or drumsticks.
  • 3 tablespoons Harissa Paste Store-bought or homemade.
  • 1 teaspoon Smoked Paprika Can substitute with regular paprika.
  • 1 teaspoon Ground Cumin Essential for true Moroccan flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon Ground Coriander Essential for true Moroccan flavor.
  • 4 cloves Garlic (minced) Heart of the marinade.
  • 2 tablespoons Lemon Juice For brightness.
  • 1 teaspoon Lemon Zest For brightness.
  • 3 tablespoons Olive Oil High-quality extra virgin for flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon Salt Adjust to taste.
  • 1 teaspoon Black Pepper Adjust to taste.
For the Mint Chimichurri
  • 1 cup Fresh Mint (chopped) Essential for freshness.
  • 1/2 cup Cilantro (chopped) Essential for freshness.
  • 1/2 cup Parsley (chopped) Essential for freshness.
  • 1 small Shallot (finely chopped) Lends sweetness.
  • 2 cloves Garlic (minced) Essential for flavor.
  • 2 tablespoons Red Wine Vinegar Can substitute with apple cider vinegar.
  • 1/2 teaspoon Red Pepper Flakes Optional for heat.
  • 3 tablespoons Olive Oil High-quality for flavor.

Equipment

  • mixing bowl
  • Skillet
  • Oven
  • Food Processor

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. In a mixing bowl, combine harissa paste, smoked paprika, ground cumin, ground coriander, minced garlic, lemon juice, lemon zest, olive oil, salt, and black pepper until well blended. Coat chicken thighs with the marinade and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
  2. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add a splash of olive oil. Place the marinated chicken thighs skin-side down into the skillet and sear for 5-7 minutes until golden brown. Flip and cook for an additional 4-5 minutes.
  3. Transfer the skillet to a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) and bake for 15-20 minutes or until chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
  4. While the chicken is baking, prepare the mint chimichurri by processing mint, cilantro, parsley, shallot, garlic, red wine vinegar, red pepper flakes, and olive oil until well combined but still coarse. Season with salt and pepper.
  5. Once cooked, let the chicken rest for a few minutes. Serve it over rice or couscous and spoon chimichurri on top. Garnish with lemon wedges.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 10gProtein: 36gFat: 30gSaturated Fat: 7gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 18gCholesterol: 130mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 2gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 1000IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 70mgIron: 3mg

Notes

Marinate overnight for best flavor. Serve with a cooling yogurt or simple salad.

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