Are you ready to take your grilling game to the next level? Dive into the exotic world of North African cuisine with our irresistible Chicken Grilled Under a Brick with Harissa! This mouthwatering dish combines the bold flavors of harissa paste with perfectly grilled chicken, resulting in a meal that’s not only delicious but also visually stunning. Imagine serving up a beautifully charred chicken with crispy skin and juicy meat, all while impressing your friends and family. With just a few simple ingredients and our step-by-step guide, you'll be able to create a show-stopping centerpiece for your next gathering. Don't miss out on this culinary adventure—read on to discover how to make this delectable dish!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 45 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs
Cuisine: North African
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 whole chicken, spatchcocked
- 2 tablespoons harissa paste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 lemon, cut into wedges
Instructions
- Begin by preparing your workspace and gathering all the ingredients. Make sure your chicken is spatchcocked, which means it has been split open and flattened for even cooking.
- In a small bowl, combine the harissa paste and olive oil. Mix well to create a marinade. This North African spice blend will add a wonderful depth of flavor to the chicken.
- Rub the harissa and olive oil mixture all over the chicken, ensuring that it is evenly coated. Pay special attention to the underside of the chicken and under the skin for maximum flavor.
- Season the chicken generously with salt and pepper. This will enhance the overall taste of the dish.
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If using a charcoal grill, prepare the coals for direct grilling. If using a gas grill, ensure it is heated evenly.
- Once the grill is hot, place the chicken skin-side down on the grill grates. To weigh the chicken down, place a heavy cast-iron skillet or a brick wrapped in aluminum foil on top of the chicken. This will help achieve crispy skin and even cooking.
- Grill the chicken for about 30 minutes on the skin side, checking occasionally to ensure it is not burning. If flare-ups occur, move the chicken to a cooler part of the grill.
- After 30 minutes, carefully remove the brick or skillet and flip the chicken over. Grill for an additional 15 minutes on the other side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Once cooked, remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for about 5-10 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a moist and flavorful dish.
- While the chicken is resting, prepare your lemon wedges. These will be served alongside the chicken to add a bright, citrusy flavor.
- To serve, cut the chicken into pieces and arrange on a platter. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the top for added flavor. Enjoy your Chicken Grilled Under a Brick with Harissa with your favorite sides!
Tips
- Spatchcocking Made Easy: If you're not familiar with spatchcocking, don’t worry! It simply means removing the backbone of the chicken to flatten it for even cooking. A sharp kitchen shears or knife will do the trick, and there are plenty of tutorials online to guide you.
- Marinate for Maximum Flavor: For an even deeper flavor, consider marinating the chicken in the harissa and olive oil mixture for a few hours or overnight in the refrigerator. This will allow the spices to penetrate the meat.
- Control the Heat: When grilling, maintaining a consistent medium-high heat is crucial. If you notice flare-ups, move the chicken to a cooler part of the grill to prevent burning.
- Use a Meat Thermometer: To ensure your chicken is perfectly cooked, use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption.
- Rest Before Serving: Letting the chicken rest after grilling is essential for juicy meat. This step allows the juices to redistribute throughout the chicken, enhancing the overall flavor and texture.
- Pair with Fresh Sides: Serve your grilled chicken with fresh salads, roasted vegetables, or couscous to complement the bold flavors of the harissa. Don’t forget the lemon wedges for a zesty finish!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 423kcal
Carbohydrates: 3g
Protein: 53g
Fat: 25g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 150mg
