Ah, roast chicken—it’s the ultimate comfort food, right? Now imagine it with a spicy kick that wakes up your taste buds like a morning jolt of espresso. This Perfectly Spicy Harissa Roasted Chicken recipe is a zesty twist on a classic, combining the warmth of North African spices with the familiar coziness of a Sunday dinner staple. Last week, I paired it with a side of couscous and a Netflix binge, and let’s just say it was a match made in culinary heaven—or maybe just my kitchen.
Steps
- Preheat the oven to 200°C/180°C fan/400°F/Gas 6 for optimal roasting conditions.
- In a bowl, combine harissa, honey, olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, sea salt, and black pepper to create a flavorful marinade.
- Place the whole chicken in a baking dish and generously coat it with the harissa mixture, ensuring it is well covered.
- Roast the chicken in the preheated oven for approximately 90 minutes, or until it is thoroughly cooked and the skin is crispy. Use a meat thermometer to confirm doneness.
Ingredients
- 1.3 kg (3 lb) Whole chicken
- 2 tablespoons Harissa
- 1 tablespoon Runny honey
- 1 tablespoon Olive oil
- Juice of half a Lemon
- 2 Garlic cloves, crushed
- A pinch of Sea salt
- Ground black pepper
Nutritional Values
Calories: 2880kcal | Carbohydrates: 40g | Protein: 288g | Fat: 152g | Saturated Fat: 40g | Monounsaturated Fat: 8g | Cholesterol: 1224mg | Sodium: 7832mg | Potassium: 48mg | Sugar: 32g | Vitamin A: 2400IU | Vitamin C: 66.4mg | Calcium: 320mg | Iron: 17.6mg
FAQ
- What should I serve with Harissa Chicken?
- Harissa Chicken pairs wonderfully with mini roasted potatoes, freshly steamed vegetables, and a creamy dip like homemade tzatziki. Consider having flatbreads or pita available to create a delicious wrap.
- Can I use chicken parts instead of a whole chicken?
- Yes, you can use chicken breasts or thighs instead of a whole chicken. However, keep in mind that the cooking time will vary depending on the cut of chicken you choose. You can also marinate chopped chicken pieces, thread them onto skewers, and grill them on the BBQ for a different approach.
- Does Harissa Chicken have to be spicy?
- Harissa does add a bit of heat, but you can adjust the spice level by using less paste if you prefer a milder flavor. Alternatively, you can substitute harissa with your favorite spice blend, such as a pesto, to suit your taste.
- What can I do with leftover Harissa Chicken?
- Leftover Harissa Chicken can be shredded and used in various dishes. It makes a tasty addition to tacos with slaw and goat cheese, a quick weeknight pasta dish, or a simple salad for a convenient lunch.
- Is a Thermapen necessary for cooking the chicken?
- While not required, a Thermapen is a useful tool to ensure your chicken is cooked to the perfect temperature without cutting into it. It provides accurate and fast temperature readings, helping to avoid undercooked chicken and ensuring food safety.
Tips
- If you’re not a fan of harissa, feel free to substitute it with any spice blend of your choice. Pesto can be a great alternative for a different flavor profile.
- For those sensitive to spice, consider using a smaller amount of harissa to control the heat level while still enjoying the unique flavor it brings.
- If you prefer using chicken breasts or thighs instead of a whole chicken, be aware that the cooking time will differ, so adjust accordingly to ensure the chicken is thoroughly cooked.
- Make the most of your leftovers by using the shredded harissa chicken in tacos, enchiladas, or salads, providing you with quick and easy meals for the following days.
Equipment
- Thermapen – A digital food thermometer used to check the internal temperature of the chicken to ensure it’s cooked perfectly.
- Baking dish – A suitable dish for roasting the chicken in the oven.