Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with a dish that brings the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean right to your kitchen! Our Air Fryer Harissa Chicken with Mediterranean Vegetable Rice Medley is not just a meal; it's an experience that promises to transport you to sun-soaked shores with every bite. In just 35 minutes, you can whip up this mouthwatering recipe that features succulent chicken thighs coated in spicy harissa paste, paired with a colorful medley of fresh vegetables and fluffy rice. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or impressing guests, this dish is a must-try that will leave everyone asking for seconds!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- Chicken thighs
- Harissa paste
- Rice
- Zucchini
- Bell peppers
- Olives
- Feta cheese
- Parsley
Instructions
- Begin by gathering all your ingredients: chicken thighs, harissa paste, rice, zucchini, bell peppers, olives, feta cheese, and parsley. Ensure your air fryer is clean and ready for use.
- In a mixing bowl, coat the chicken thighs evenly with harissa paste. Use your hands or a brush to ensure every piece is well-covered. Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 10 minutes to absorb the flavors.
- While the chicken is marinating, rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This helps remove excess starch and prevents the rice from being too sticky.
- In a medium pot, add the rinsed rice along with 2 cups of water (or chicken broth for added flavor). Bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for about 15 minutes or until the rice is cooked and the water is absorbed. Remove from heat and let it sit covered for an additional 5 minutes.
- While the rice is cooking, prepare your vegetables. Chop the zucchini and bell peppers into bite-sized pieces. If using whole olives, slice them in half or leave them whole based on your preference.
- Once the chicken has marinated, preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Place the chicken thighs in the air fryer basket in a single layer, ensuring they are not overcrowded. Cook for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the chicken is golden brown and crispy.
- While the chicken is cooking, heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped zucchini and bell peppers, sautéing for about 5-7 minutes until they are tender. Stir in the olives and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
- Once the vegetables are cooked, fluff the rice with a fork and add it to the skillet with the vegetables. Mix well to combine, allowing the flavors to meld together. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the air fryer and let it rest for a few minutes. Slice the chicken thighs if desired.
- To serve, place a generous portion of the Mediterranean vegetable rice medley on each plate. Top with the harissa chicken, crumbled feta cheese, and a sprinkle of fresh parsley for garnish.
- Enjoy your delicious Air Fryer Harissa Chicken with Mediterranean Vegetable Rice Medley!
Tips
- Marination Magic: For maximum flavor, let the chicken marinate in the harissa paste for at least 30 minutes, or even overnight if you have the time. This allows the spices to penetrate deeply, resulting in a more flavorful dish.
- Rice Perfection: Rinsing the rice is crucial! It removes excess starch, ensuring your rice is light and fluffy rather than sticky. Consider using chicken broth instead of water for an extra depth of flavor.
- Air Fryer Settings: Make sure to preheat your air fryer for the best results. Cooking the chicken at 400°F (200°C) helps achieve that crispy, golden-brown exterior while keeping the inside juicy.
- Veggie Variations: Feel free to mix and match your vegetables based on what you have on hand. Eggplant, cherry tomatoes, or spinach would also work beautifully in this medley.
- Serving Suggestions: For an extra burst of flavor, drizzle a little lemon juice over the finished dish before serving. The acidity brightens the flavors and complements the richness of the harissa chicken and feta cheese.
- Leftover Love: This dish makes fantastic leftovers! Store any extras in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the air fryer or on the stovetop for a quick and delicious meal.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 450kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 28g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 120mg
