Spicy Harissa Chicken Thighs with Olives

ByMycookingcorner
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Are you ready to elevate your weeknight dinners with bold, fiery flavors? Spicy Harissa Chicken Thighs with Olives is the perfect dish to add to your meal rotation. This recipe combines the rich, smoky heat of harissa with juicy, bone-in chicken thighs, briny olives, and aromatic spices for a dish that delivers incredible depth and complexity.

Whether you’re a fan of North African cuisine or simply looking for a vibrant new way to enjoy chicken, this easy-to-make meal will leave your taste buds tingling. Plus, it’s perfect for meal prep, dinner parties, or a cozy night in.

Let’s dive into what makes this dish special, how to make it, and why you’ll want to keep this recipe in your back pocket!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Bursting with Bold Flavors – The harissa paste adds a smoky, spicy depth that pairs beautifully with the olives and citrus.
  • Easy to Make – With simple ingredients and a straightforward process, you can have this dish ready in under an hour.
  • Perfect for Any Occasion – Whether it’s a quick weeknight meal or a dinner to impress guests, this dish is versatile and crowd-pleasing.
  • Meal Prep Friendly – Make a batch ahead of time and enjoy flavorful leftovers throughout the week.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Main Ingredients:

  • 6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (about 1.2 kg / 2.6 lbs)
  • 3 tbsp harissa paste
  • 2 tbsp olive oil (30 ml)
  • 1 lemon (juice and zest)
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1/2 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1/2 cup green or kalamata olives (about 75g / 2.5 oz)
  • 1 red onion, sliced
  • 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved (75g / 2.5 oz)
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth (120 ml)
  • Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prep the Chicken

  • Pat the chicken thighs dry with a paper towel. This helps the skin crisp up during cooking.
  • In a small bowl, mix harissa paste, olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
  • Rub this marinade all over the chicken, ensuring it’s well-coated. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes (or overnight for deeper flavor).

2. Sear the Chicken

  • Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Place the chicken thighs skin-side down and sear for about 5–7 minutes, until the skin is crispy and golden brown.
  • Flip the chicken and cook for another 3–4 minutes before transferring to a plate.

3. Cook the Aromatics & Sauce

  • In the same skillet, sauté the sliced red onion for 2 minutes until softened.
  • Add the cherry tomatoes and olives, stirring to combine.
  • Pour in the chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the pan.
  • Nestle the chicken thighs back into the skillet, skin-side up.

4. Bake to Perfection

  • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  • Transfer the skillet to the oven and roast for 25–30 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).

5. Garnish & Serve

  • Remove from the oven and sprinkle with fresh parsley or cilantro.
  • Serve hot with couscous, rice, or warm pita bread.

Tips for the Best Spicy Harissa Chicken Thighs

  • Adjust the Heat Level: If you prefer a milder dish, use less harissa or opt for a mild harissa paste.
  • Crispy Skin Tip: Always sear the chicken before baking to lock in juices and achieve golden, crispy skin.
  • Marinate for Maximum Flavor: Letting the chicken sit in the harissa marinade for a few hours (or overnight) deepens the flavors.
  • Pairing Suggestions: Serve with fluffy couscous, roasted vegetables, or a fresh cucumber salad to balance the heat.

FAQs About Spicy Harissa Chicken Thighs with Olives

1. What is harissa, and where can I find it?

Harissa is a North African chili paste made from roasted peppers, spices, and olive oil. You can find it in most grocery stores in the international aisle or online.

2. Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes! However, chicken breasts cook faster, so adjust the baking time to 18–22 minutes to prevent dryness.

3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! This dish tastes even better the next day as the flavors deepen. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.

4. What sides pair best with this dish?

Couscous, basmati rice, grilled vegetables, or a fresh Mediterranean salad are excellent choices.

5. How spicy is harissa?

Harissa can range from mild to very spicy. Taste your harissa before using it and adjust the amount based on your heat preference.

Conclusion

This Spicy Harissa Chicken Thighs with Olives recipe is a bold, flavor-packed dish that will become a favorite in your kitchen. The combination of smoky harissa, juicy chicken, and briny olives creates an irresistible balance of heat, depth, and richness.

Try this recipe tonight and enjoy a taste of North African-inspired cuisine! Don’t forget to share your experience in the comments below and tag us if you post your delicious creation online.

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