🌶️ Harissa Chicken with Couscous
This Harissa Chicken with Couscous is a flavorful Mediterranean-inspired dish featuring juicy chicken coated in spicy harissa paste, served alongside fluffy couscous. It is perfect for lunch or dinner and comes together easily with simple ingredients.
⏱️ Time
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Marinating Time: 30 minutes (optional but recommended)
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings: 4
🛒 Ingredients
For the Harissa Chicken
6 bone-in, skinless chicken thighs
3 tablespoons harissa paste
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon lemon juice
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon cumin
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
For the Couscous
1 cup couscous
1 cup chicken broth or hot water
1 tablespoon olive oil
¼ teaspoon salt
Fresh parsley, chopped
Lemon wedges for serving
👩🍳 Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
In a bowl, combine:
Harissa paste
Olive oil
Lemon juice
Garlic
Paprika
Cumin
Salt and pepper
Mix well.
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
Coat the chicken thoroughly with the mixture. Cover and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Place chicken on a baking tray.
3. Bake for 30–35 minutes, until golden and cooked through.
4. Broil for 2–3 minutes for slightly charred edges.
Step 4: Prepare the Couscous
1. Bring chicken broth to a boil.
2. Remove from heat.
3. Stir in couscous, olive oil, and salt.
4. Cover for 5 minutes.
5. Fluff with a fork and garnish with parsley.
Step 5: Serve
Arrange the chicken beside the couscous and garnish with lemon wedges and fresh parsley.
💡 Tips
✔ Marinate overnight for deeper flavor.
✔ Use boneless chicken thighs if preferred.
✔ Add roasted vegetables like zucchini, carrots, or bell peppers.
✔ Adjust the amount of harissa paste to control the spice level.
Notes
Harissa paste varies in heat, so start with less if you’re sensitive to spicy foods.
Chicken breasts can be substituted, but cooking time may need adjustment.
Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days.
❓ FAQs (frequently asked questions)
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes. The chicken can be marinated a day ahead, and leftovers reheat well.
Is this recipe halal?
Yes, as long as halal chicken is used.
Can I freeze it?
Yes. Store in an airtight container and freeze for up to 2 months.
What can I serve with it?
Greek salad
Hummus
Roasted vegetables
Pita bread
Is it very spicy?
It has moderate heat, but you can reduce the harissa paste for a milder flavor.
🥗 Nutritional Information
Nutrient Amount
Calories 460 kcal
Protein 31 g
Carbohydrates 27 g
Fat 24 g
Saturated Fat 5 g
Fiber 3 g
Sugar 2 g
Sodium 640 mg
Cholesterol 125 mg
delicious, healthy, and halal-friendly Mediterranean meal! 🌿🍋🍗