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Baked Harissa Chicken Thighs Recipe

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★★★★★

4.8 from 68 reviews

This Baked Harissa Chicken Thighs recipe features juicy, bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs marinated in a flavorful blend of spicy harissa paste, creamy Greek yogurt, garlic, and lime juice. The chicken is baked to perfection, resulting in a crispy skin and tender meat infused with North African-inspired bold and smoky flavors. Garnished with fresh parsley, this dish is simple to prepare, perfect for an easy weeknight dinner with a spicy kick.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken

  • 1 ½ pounds bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs

Marinade

  • ¼ cup harissa paste
  • 2 tablespoons nonfat Greek yogurt
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon fresh squeezed lime juice
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • ½ teaspoon cracked black pepper

Garnish

  • Minced parsley

Instructions

  1. Prepare the marinade: In a medium bowl, whisk together the harissa paste, nonfat Greek yogurt, olive oil, minced garlic, fresh lime juice, kosher salt, and cracked black pepper until well combined to create a flavorful marinade.
  2. Coat the chicken: Add the bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs to the marinade and toss thoroughly to ensure each piece is evenly coated with the spicy mixture.
  3. Marinate: Cover the bowl or transfer to a dish and refrigerate the chicken for at least 2 hours, ideally overnight, to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat deeply.
  4. Preheat the oven: When ready to cook, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper for easy cleanup and to prevent sticking.
  5. Bake the chicken: Arrange the marinated chicken thighs on the lined baking sheet in a single layer, skin side up, and bake in the preheated oven for 30 to 35 minutes, or until an instant-read thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the chicken reads 165°F (74°C), ensuring the chicken is fully cooked and juicy.
  6. Garnish and serve: Once baked, remove the chicken from the oven and sprinkle generously with freshly minced parsley to add color and fresh herbal notes before serving.

Notes

  • For best flavor, marinate the chicken overnight to let the harissa and spices deeply penetrate the meat.
  • If you prefer less spice, reduce the amount of harissa paste slightly or choose a milder version.
  • Bone-in, skin-on thighs provide more moisture and flavor than boneless; however, boneless skinless thighs can be used with slightly reduced cook time.
  • Use a meat thermometer to ensure perfect doneness without overcooking.
  • Serve with a side of roasted vegetables, couscous, or a fresh salad for a balanced meal.

Keywords: Harissa chicken, baked chicken thighs, spicy chicken, North African chicken, harissa marinade, oven-baked chicken, Greek yogurt marinade

Find it online: https://thefoodrecipe.com/baked-harissa-chicken-thighs-recipe/