If you're on the hunt for a dish that bursts with flavor and satisfies your cravings, look no further than these Harissa Chicken Thighs with Crispy Chickpeas! This North African-inspired recipe combines succulent chicken thighs coated in spicy harissa paste with crunchy, roasted chickpeas that add a delightful texture to your meal. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or an impressive gathering, this dish is not only easy to prepare but also a feast for the senses. Get ready to tantalize your taste buds and impress your guests with a dish that’s as vibrant as it is delicious!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 45 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs
Cuisine: North African
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 chicken thighs
- 2 tablespoons harissa paste
- 1 can chickpeas (15 oz, drained and rinsed)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a large rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This helps achieve crispy skin and better seasoning adherence.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained and rinsed chickpeas with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, salt, and pepper. Toss until the chickpeas are evenly coated.
- Generously season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper on both sides. Spread the harissa paste evenly over the chicken, making sure to coat each thigh completely.
- Arrange the harissa-coated chicken thighs on the prepared baking sheet, skin-side up. Scatter the seasoned chickpeas around the chicken pieces.
- Drizzle the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil over the chicken and chickpeas to help them crisp up and brown nicely.
- Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and roast for 40-45 minutes, or until the chicken skin is golden and crispy, and the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Halfway through cooking, gently shake the baking sheet or use tongs to turn the chickpeas to ensure even browning and crispiness.
- Once cooked, remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the chicken rest for 5-7 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute.
- Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro before serving. The crispy chickpeas can be served alongside or sprinkled on top of the chicken.
- Serve hot, optionally with a side of yogurt, rice, or a fresh salad to complement the spicy harissa flavors.
Tips
- Pat Dry for Crispiness: Make sure to pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels before seasoning. This step is crucial for achieving that irresistible crispy skin!
- Customize the Heat: Harissa paste can vary in spiciness. If you prefer a milder flavor, start with a smaller amount and adjust to your taste.
- Even Cooking: To ensure even cooking and browning, shake the baking sheet or turn the chickpeas halfway through the roasting process. This will help them crisp up beautifully!
- Resting Time: Allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes after removing it from the oven. This helps the juices redistribute, ensuring each bite is juicy and flavorful.
- Serving Suggestions: Consider serving your Harissa Chicken Thighs with a side of cooling yogurt, fluffy rice, or a fresh salad to balance the heat and enhance the overall meal experience.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 420kcal
Carbohydrates: 19g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 24g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 165mg
