Get ready to embark on a culinary journey that will transport your taste buds straight to the vibrant streets of North Africa! This Harissa Sumac Roasted Chicken with Tzatziki is not just a meal, it's an experience that combines bold, fiery spices with cool, refreshing yogurt sauce. Imagine crispy, golden-brown chicken infused with the smoky heat of harissa and the tangy brightness of sumac, paired with a creamy tzatziki that will make your mouth water. Whether you're looking to impress dinner guests or simply elevate your weeknight cooking, this recipe is about to become your new obsession!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 1 hrs
Total Time: 1 hrs 15 mins
Cuisine: North African
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 whole chicken, about 4 lbs
- 3 tablespoons harissa
- 1 tablespoon sumac
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 cup Greek yogurt
- 1 cucumber, grated
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Remove the whole chicken from refrigerator 30 minutes before cooking to bring it to room temperature, which ensures even roasting.
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (218°C). Pat the chicken dry thoroughly with paper towels to ensure crispy skin.
- In a small bowl, mix harissa, sumac, olive oil, salt, and pepper to create a spice rub. Carefully separate chicken skin from meat and massage the spice mixture directly onto the chicken meat and under the skin.
- Place the chicken breast-side up in a roasting pan or cast-iron skillet. Truss the legs with kitchen twine to promote even cooking.
- Roast the chicken in the preheated oven for approximately 60-75 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) when measured at the thickest part of the thigh.
- While chicken is roasting, prepare tzatziki by combining Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, minced garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Refrigerate to let flavors meld.
- Once chicken is done, remove from oven and let rest for 10-15 minutes to allow juices to redistribute, ensuring moist meat.
- Carve the chicken and serve with chilled tzatziki sauce on the side. Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or mint if desired.
Tips
- Temperature Matters: Always let your chicken come to room temperature before roasting to ensure even cooking and a perfectly juicy result.
- Skin Preparation: Pat the chicken completely dry before applying the spice rub. This is the secret to achieving that irresistibly crispy, golden skin.
- Spice Rub Technique: Gently separate the skin from the meat and massage the harissa mixture directly onto the meat. This helps the flavors penetrate deeply.
- Trussing is Key: Truss the chicken legs to promote even cooking and help the chicken maintain a beautiful, compact shape.
- Rest, Don't Rush: Allow the chicken to rest for 10-15 minutes after roasting. This crucial step helps redistribute the juices, ensuring each bite is moist and flavorful.
- Tzatziki Tip: Prepare the tzatziki in advance and let it chill in the refrigerator. This allows the flavors to meld and intensify.
- Garnish Wisely: A sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or mint can add a bright, fresh finish to this aromatic dish.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 660kcal
Carbohydrates: 8g
Protein: 61g
Fat: 38g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Cholesterol: 150mg
