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Baked Harissa Chicken Thighs Recipe

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3.8 from 1 review

These baked harissa chicken thighs are bursting with bold Middle Eastern flavors from spicy harissa chili paste and fresh garlic. Marinated in a blend of harissa, Greek yogurt, olive oil, lime juice, and seasonings, the chicken becomes tender, juicy, and perfectly balanced with heat and creaminess. This easy-to-make main course is baked to juicy perfection and garnished with fresh parsley for a vibrant finish.

  • Total Time: 2 hours 40 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Ingredients

Chicken

  • 1 ½ pounds bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs

Marinade

  • ¼ cup harissa paste
  • 2 tablespoons nonfat Greek yogurt
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 3 cloves minced garlic
  • 1 teaspoon fresh squeezed lime juice
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • ½ teaspoon cracked pepper

Garnish

  • Minced parsley

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Marinade: In a medium bowl, whisk together the harissa paste, nonfat Greek yogurt, olive oil, minced garlic, fresh lime juice, kosher salt, and cracked pepper until well combined to create a flavorful and creamy marinade.
  2. Marinate the Chicken: Add the bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs to the bowl and toss thoroughly to coat each piece evenly in the marinade. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer to an airtight container.
  3. Refrigerate: Place the marinated chicken in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to deeply infuse and tenderize the meat.
  4. Preheat the Oven: When ready to cook, preheat your oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit (220 degrees Celsius) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup and to prevent sticking.
  5. Bake the Chicken: Arrange the marinated chicken thighs skin-side up on the prepared baking sheet, making sure they have enough space. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit (74 degrees Celsius), and the skin is crispy.
  6. Garnish and Serve: Remove the chicken from the oven and sprinkle freshly minced parsley over the top for a pop of color and fresh herbal flavor. Serve warm with your choice of vegetables or grains.

Notes

  • You can use mild or spicy harissa paste depending on your heat preference.
  • This recipe also works well with boneless chicken breasts if you prefer leaner meat, though bake times may vary accordingly.
  • Author: Maya
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 35 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Middle Eastern