Spicy Harissa-Marinated Grilled Chicken Thighs
Spicy Harissa-Marinated Grilled Chicken Thighs are a bold and flavorful dish perfect for lovers of heat and Mediterranean-inspired cuisine. Juicy chicken thighs are marinated in a smoky, spicy harissa paste blended with olive oil, garlic, and lemon juice, infusing the meat with rich flavors. Grilled to perfection, the chicken develops a slightly charred, crispy exterior while remaining tender and succulent inside. This dish is ideal for summer barbecues or easy weeknight dinners, pairing wonderfully with fresh salads, couscous, or flatbreads for a complete meal.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 25 minutes
Kcal: 290 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
INGREDIENTS:
• 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
• 2 tablespoons harissa paste
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro for garnish
• Lemon wedges for serving
INSTRUCTIONS:
1. In a small bowl, combine the harissa paste, olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Rub the mixture evenly over the chicken thighs and let them marinate for at least 30 minutes (or up to 24 hours in the fridge).
3. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
4. Grill the chicken thighs for 6-8 minutes per side or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
5. Remove from the grill and let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving.
6. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with lemon wedges on the side.
Here are some notes for Spicy Harissa-Marinated Grilled Chicken Thighs:
1. Harissa Level: Harissa paste can vary in heat level depending on the brand. Adjust the amount of harissa to suit your spice preference, or mix with yogurt to mellow the heat.
2. Marinating Time: For best flavor, marinate the chicken for at least 2 hours, or overnight if possible. This allows the flavors to fully penetrate the meat.
3. Grilling Tips: Make sure the grill is preheated to medium-high heat. Grill the chicken thighs skin-side down first to get a nice crispy texture.
4. Oven Alternative: If you don’t have access to a grill, you can bake the chicken thighs at 400°F (200°C) for about 25-30 minutes, then broil for a few minutes to crisp up the skin.
5. Pairing Ideas: Serve with couscous, roasted vegetables, or a refreshing cucumber-yogurt salad to balance the spice. Flatbreads or pita can also complement the dish well.
6. Leftovers: The grilled chicken thighs can be sliced and used in wraps, salads, or grain bowls for easy meal prep throughout the week.
7. Bone-In vs. Boneless: You can use either bone-in or boneless chicken thighs. Bone-in thighs will take a bit longer to cook but offer more flavor, while boneless cook faster.
These tips will help ensure your grilled chicken thighs turn out perfectly flavorful and juicy.