Harissa Grilled Chicken

Juicy, flavorful, and perfect for summer cookouts, Harissa Grilled Chicken offers a delicious blend of spices that excite the palate. Marinating the chicken in a spicy harissa paste elevates this dish, making it a favorite among family and friends. Whether you serve it at a backyard barbecue or a weeknight dinner, this grilled chicken is sure to impress everyone at your table.

Recipe Information

• Prep Time: 30 minutes (plus marinating time)
• Cook Time: 14 minutes
• Total Time: 44 minutes (plus marinating time)
• Servings: 4
• Difficulty Level: Easy

Nutrition Information

• Calories per serving: 265
• Protein: 30 grams
• Carbohydrates: 2 grams
• Fat: 15 grams
• Fiber: 0 grams
• Sugar: 0 grams
• Sodium: 570 mg

Why Make This Harissa Grilled Chicken

Harissa Grilled Chicken is not just about taste; it’s about the experience! The vibrant flavors of harissa—a North African chili paste—combined with olive oil, garlic powder, and onion powder create a marinade that penetrates the chicken breast beautifully. The grilling process imparts a delightful smokiness while keeping the chicken juicy inside. Plus, this recipe is simple enough for everyone to master, making it a perfect choice for cooks of any skill level.

How to Make Harissa Grilled Chicken

Ingredients:

• 4 chicken breasts
• 2 tablespoons harissa paste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Lemon wedges for serving

Directions:

• Step 1: Preparation

  In a bowl, mix harissa paste, olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper to create a marinade.

• Step 2: Marinating

  Coat the chicken breasts with the marinade and let them sit for at least 30 minutes—if you have more time, marinating overnight in the fridge will enhance the flavors even further.

• Step 3: Preheating

  Preheat your grill to medium-high heat to ensure a perfect char on the chicken.

• Step 4: Cooking

  Grill the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side or until fully cooked and charred. You can check the internal temperature; it should reach 165°F (75°C).

• Step 5: Finishing

  Remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes. Serve it with fresh lemon wedges for an added zing.

How to Serve Harissa Grilled Chicken

Serve your Harissa Grilled Chicken alongside a refreshing salad, couscous, or grilled vegetables to make a complete meal. You can also slice it up and add it to a pita wrap with veggies and tahini sauce for a delicious lunch option. The bright lemon wedges not only look great on the plate but also enhance the flavors when squeezed over the chicken.

How to Store Harissa Grilled Chicken

Store any leftover grilled chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep fresh for up to 3 days. You can also freeze the marinated chicken before grilling it. Just be sure to thaw it completely in the fridge before cooking for the best results.

Expert Tips for Perfect Harissa Grilled Chicken

1. Choose the Right Chicken: Look for chicken breasts that are uniform in size to ensure even cooking.
2. Don’t Skip Marination: Even a quick 30 minutes will enhance flavor, but the longer, the better!
3. Grill Smartly: Ensure your grill is well-preheated to achieve beautiful grill marks and avoid sticking.
4. Check for Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure your chicken is properly cooked.
5. Rest Before Serving: Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after grilling; this keeps it juicy and flavorful.

Delicious Variations

• Spicy Harissa Chicken Skewers: Cut the chicken into cubes, marinate, and thread onto skewers for grilling. This also makes for an impressive presentation!
• Harissa Chicken Tacos: Shred the cooked chicken and serve it in corn tortillas with avocado, cilantro, and a squeeze of lime.
• Herbed Harissa Chicken: Add fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley to the marinade for a fresh twist.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Can I use other cuts of chicken? Yes, thighs or drumsticks work well. Adjust the cooking time as needed.
• What is harissa? Harissa is a North African chili paste made from roasted red peppers, spices, and oil. You can customize its heat level by choosing different varieties.
• Is this recipe gluten-free? Yes, all ingredients are naturally gluten-free.
• Can I make this in the oven instead? Absolutely! Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and bake for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
• What should I do if I don’t have harissa? You can substitute with sriracha or any spicy chili paste, although the unique flavor of harissa might be lost.

Conclusion

Harissa Grilled Chicken is a wonderfully flavorful dish that combines the right amount of spice with the juiciness of grilled chicken. It’s easy enough to whip up for a weeknight meal, yet impressive enough to serve at gatherings. With its bright flavors and vibrant appearance, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your cooking repertoire. So fire up that grill and enjoy a delicious meal that’s bound to please!

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