Name: Grilled Harissa Chicken
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs (excess fat trimmed); 2 tablespoons harissa paste; 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil; 2 tablespoons lemon juice; 2 tablespoons honey; 4 cloves garlic (minced); 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; ½ teaspoon ground cumin; 1 teaspoon kosher salt; ½ teaspoon ground black pepper

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If you’re looking for a meal that’s packed with flavor, simple to make, and perfect for your next BBQ, look no further than this Grilled Harissa Chicken recipe.

With just a handful of ingredients, you can whip up juicy and tender chicken thighs that are bursting with exciting spices and sweetness.

Let’s dive into this delightful recipe that is sure to please both family and friends!

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

Grilled Harissa Chicken is more than just a quick weeknight dinner; it’s a vibrant dish that brings a taste of North Africa right to your home.

The harissa paste gives the chicken a spicy kick while the honey balances it perfectly with a touch of sweetness.

When grilled, the chicken becomes beautifully charred on the outside, juicy on the inside, and simply irresistible.

It’s fantastic served with couscous, a fresh salad, or even in a wrap.

Plus, you can make it all in less than an hour!

Ingredients

2 pounds (900 g) boneless skinless chicken thighs (excess fat trimmed)
2 tablespoons harissa paste
2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
2 tablespoons lemon juice
2 tablespoons honey
4 garlic cloves (minced)
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
½ teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon kosher salt
½ teaspoon ground black pepper

How To Make Grilled Harissa Chicken Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

Start by grabbing a medium bowl.

In this bowl, combine the harissa paste, extra virgin olive oil, lemon juice, honey, minced garlic, smoked paprika, ground cumin, kosher salt, and ground black pepper.

Whisk everything together until you have a smooth and well-combined mixture.

This vibrant marinade will infuse your chicken with incredible flavor!

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

Add the boneless chicken thighs to the bowl with the marinade.

Make sure each piece of chicken is coated well—no one wants a bland bite! For the best results, cover the bowl and let the chicken marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.

If you have time, marinating for a few hours or even overnight will really elevate the flavors.

Step 3: Preheat the Grill

It’s time to get that grill hot! Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.

This temperature is perfect for achieving those lovely grill marks while keeping the chicken tender and juicy.

Step 4: Grill the Chicken

Once your grill is preheated, take the chicken out of the marinade and let any excess drip off.

Place the chicken thighs on the grill grates.

Close the lid and grill for around 5-7 minutes on one side without moving them.

This will create those beautiful grill marks.

Flip the chicken over and cook for another 5-7 minutes on the other side.

The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).

Step 5: Rest and Serve

Remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes.

This resting time is crucial—it allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, making every bite succulent.

After resting, slice the chicken if you like, and serve it warm.

Enjoy!

Expert Tips

For an extra kick, add more harissa paste to the marinade based on your spice tolerance.
If you can’t find harissa paste, you can make your own using roasted red peppers, garlic, and spices.
Always use a meat thermometer to check for doneness—this ensures perfectly cooked chicken every time.
Feel free to soak wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes before grilling if you want to make skewers instead of grilling the chicken thighs directly.

Variations and Customizations

Consider using chicken breasts instead of thighs for a leaner option; just be careful not to overcook them!
Add colorful veggies like bell peppers and zucchini to the grill alongside the chicken for a complete meal.
Try different marinades by adding yogurt or changing the spices; this recipe is versatile!
Serve the chicken with a side of tzatziki or yogurt sauce to balance the heat from the harissa.

How to Store Leftovers

If you have any leftovers (which might be a challenge, because it’s so delicious!), let the chicken cool to room temperature.

Place it in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

You can also freeze the grilled chicken for up to 2 months.

When you’re ready to enjoy it again, just thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the grill or in a pan on the stove.

FAQ

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, you can! Just note that chicken breasts may cook faster than thighs, so keep an eye on them to avoid drying out.

How spicy is harissa?

The spiciness of harissa can vary based on the brand and ingredients.

If you’re sensitive to spice, start with a smaller amount and adjust according to your preference.

Can I grill this chicken on a stovetop grill pan?

Absolutely! A stovetop grill pan works great for this recipe as well.

Just make sure to preheat the pan and add a little olive oil to prevent sticking.

What can I serve with grilled harissa chicken?

Grilled harissa chicken pairs wonderfully with couscous, quinoa salad, grilled vegetables, or even a fresh green salad.

It also makes a great filling for wraps or sandwiches!

Conclusion

This Grilled Harissa Chicken recipe is an absolute winner for anyone looking to infuse their dinner table with bold flavors and a hint of adventure.

With simple ingredients and an easy cooking method, you can create a dish that looks and tastes like it’s come straight out of a restaurant kitchen.

Perfect for summer cookouts or cozy dinners at home, give this recipe a try and watch your loved ones gather around the grill with excitement! Happy grilling!