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Moroccan Harissa Chicken with Mint Chimichurri

Irresistible Moroccan Harissa Chicken with Mint Chimichurri

A delightful Moroccan Harissa Chicken with Mint Chimichurri that combines bold flavors and vibrant freshness for an impressive dinner.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Marinating Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Moroccan
Calories: 480

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken
  • 4 pieces Skin-on Bone-in Moroccan Chicken Thighs Substitute with chicken breasts or drumsticks if desired.
  • 2 tablespoons Harissa Paste Use store-bought or homemade for a personal touch.
  • 1 tablespoon Smoked Paprika Enhances depth of flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon Ground Cumin Characteristic of Moroccan cuisine.
  • 1 teaspoon Ground Coriander Provides citrusy and herbal undertones.
  • 3 cloves Garlic Minced; essential for flavor.
  • 2 tablespoons Lemon Juice Brightens the dish.
  • 1 teaspoon Lemon Zest Adds acidity.
  • 2 tablespoons Olive Oil Marinade base.
  • 1 teaspoon Salt Adjust to taste.
  • 1 teaspoon Black Pepper Adjust to taste.
For the Mint Chimichurri
  • 1 cup Fresh Mint Burst of freshness.
  • 1 cup Fresh Cilantro
  • 1 cup Fresh Parsley
  • 1 small Shallot Adds complexity.
  • 3 cloves Garlic Minced.
  • 1 tablespoon Red Pepper Flakes Add to preference.
  • 2 tablespoons Red Wine Vinegar Infuses acidity.
  • 2 tablespoons Olive Oil
Optional Add-Ons
  • 2 cups Couscous or Rice Soaks up juices.
  • 2 cups Roasted Vegetables Carrots and zucchini suggested.

Equipment

  • Mixing Bowl
  • Skillet
  • Oven
  • Food processor

Method
 

Step‑by‑Step Instructions
  1. In a mixing bowl, blend harissa paste, smoked paprika, ground cumin, ground coriander, minced garlic, lemon juice, lemon zest, olive oil, salt, and black pepper until smooth. Rub this mixture generously under the skin of the chicken thighs and marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight.
  2. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add a drizzle of oil. Once hot, sear the marinated chicken thighs skin-side down for about 5-7 minutes until golden-brown. Flip and cook for another 4-5 minutes.
  3. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Transfer the seared chicken to a baking dish and bake for 15-20 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
  4. In a food processor, combine fresh mint, cilantro, parsley, shallot, garlic, red pepper flakes, red wine vinegar, and olive oil. Pulse until well blended but coarse.
  5. Plate the chicken on a bed of couscous or rice and top with mint chimichurri. Serve alongside roasted vegetables.

Nutrition

Serving: 1plateCalories: 480kcalCarbohydrates: 34gProtein: 30gFat: 24gSaturated Fat: 6gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 14gCholesterol: 120mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 5gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 15IUVitamin C: 30mgCalcium: 75mgIron: 3.5mg

Notes

For maximum flavor, marinate overnight. Serve warm for best experience.

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