Harissa Chicken and Chickpea

Spice Up Your Meal with Harissa Chicken and Chickpea Salad

Are you looking for a flavorful and healthy dish that’s both easy to prepare and impressive to serve? Look no further than Harissa chicken with chickpea salad. This North African-inspired meal combines the bold, spicy flavors of harissa with tender chicken and a refreshing chickpea salad, creating a perfect balance of heat, protein, and nutrition.

What is Harissa?

Before we dive into the recipe, let’s explore the star ingredient: harissa. This fiery red paste is a staple in North African cuisine, particularly in Tunisia, Algeria, and Morocco. Harissa is made from:

• Roasted red peppers
• Hot chili peppers
• Garlic
• Olive oil
• Spices (such as cumin, coriander, and caraway)

The result is a complex, smoky, and spicy condiment that adds depth and heat to any dish it touches.

Health Benefits of Harissa Chicken with Chickpea Salad

This dish isn’t just delicious; it’s also packed with nutrients and health benefits:

1. High in protein: Both the chicken and chickpeas provide essential amino acids for muscle building and repair.
2. Rich in fiber: Chickpeas are an excellent source of dietary fiber, promoting digestive health and satiety.
3. Loaded with vitamins and minerals: The vegetables in the salad offer a range of vitamins, while the chickpeas provide iron, magnesium, and potassium.
4. Heart-healthy fats: Olive oil used in both the chicken marinade and salad dressing contains monounsaturated fats, which are beneficial for heart health.
5. Antioxidant-rich: The spices in harissa, along with the fresh vegetables, provide a variety of antioxidants that help fight inflammation and oxidative stress.

Harissa Chicken with Chickpea Salad is a culinary masterpiece that brings together the aromatic spices of North Africa and the vibrant, fresh ingredients of the Mediterranean. This dish is not only a feast for the taste buds but also a visually appealing addition to your dining table. The key to its irresistible flavor lies in the harissa marinade, which infuses the chicken with a perfect blend of heat and smoky undertones. The chickpea salad, on the other hand, offers a refreshing contrast with its crisp vegetables, tangy lemon dressing, and a hint of mint.

Bold flavors are at the heart of this dish. Harissa, a traditional North African chili paste, is the star ingredient that elevates the chicken to new heights. Made from a mix of hot chili peppers, garlic, olive oil, and spices such as cumin and coriander, harissa adds a depth of flavor that is both complex and satisfying. The spiciness of the harissa can be adjusted to suit your taste, making it a versatile ingredient that can cater to different heat preferences.

In this recipe, we marinate the chicken in harissa paste for at least an hour, allowing the flavors to penetrate deeply. This results in tender, juicy chicken that is bursting with flavor. To complement the boldness of the harissa chicken, we pair it with a chickpea salad that is equally delightful. Chickpeas are a staple in Mediterranean cuisine, known for their nutty taste and creamy texture. When combined with fresh vegetables like cucumbers, tomatoes, and red onions, chickpeas create a salad that is both hearty and refreshing.

The lemon dressing used in the chickpea salad adds a zesty brightness that balances the heat of the harissa chicken. Fresh herbs such as parsley and mint enhance the salad with their aromatic notes, making each bite a harmonious blend of flavors. This combination not only provides a variety of textures but also ensures that every mouthful is a celebration of taste.

This dish is perfect for those who enjoy experimenting with global flavors. It brings together the best of two culinary worlds, offering a meal that is rich in history and tradition. Harissa Chicken with Chickpea Salad is also a great option for those looking to incorporate more protein and vegetables into their diet without compromising on taste. The use of lean chicken breast and protein-packed chickpeas makes this dish a nutritious choice that is both satisfying and wholesome.

Preparing this dish is a breeze, thanks to our step-by-step instructions. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, you’ll find that this recipe is easy to follow and yields impressive results. The key is to use fresh, high-quality ingredients and to take your time with the marinating process. This ensures that the chicken is infused with maximum flavor, making every bite a delight.

For those who prefer a milder dish, you can easily adjust the amount of harissa used in the marinade. Similarly, if you enjoy a bit more heat, feel free to add an extra spoonful of harissa to the mix. The chickpea salad can also be customized to your liking. Add in some crumbled feta cheese for a touch of creaminess or some olives for an extra burst of flavor. The possibilities are endless, allowing you to make this dish your own.

In conclusion, Harissa Chicken with Chickpea Salad is a must-try for anyone who loves bold, flavorful dishes that are easy to prepare. It offers a perfect balance of heat, spice, and freshness, making it a versatile meal that can be enjoyed year-round. Serve it at your next gathering or enjoy it as a hearty weeknight dinner. Either way, you’re sure to impress with this delicious and nutritious recipe.

Print Recipe

Harissa Chicken and Chickpea

Cooking Method: Oven, Skillet Cuisine: Fusion Courses: Dinner, Lunch, Salads Recipe Keys: Gluten Free High Protein Non Vegetarian Spicy

Difficulty: Intermediate Prep Time 80 mins Cook Time 30 mins Total Time 1 hr 50 mins

Cooking Temp: 180  °C Servings: 4 Estimated Cost: $ 20 Calories: 450

Best Season: Suitable throughout the year

Description

Harissa Chicken with Chickpea Salad is a culinary delight that brings together the rich, spicy flavors of harissa-marinated chicken and the fresh, zesty notes of a chickpea salad. This dish is perfect for those who enjoy bold and vibrant flavors, offering a nutritious and satisfying meal that can be enjoyed year-round. Whether you're hosting a summer BBQ or looking for a delicious weeknight dinner, this recipe is sure to impress with its unique blend of North African and Mediterranean influences.

Main Ingredients

Servings

Chicken and Marinade

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 800 grams)
• 3 tablespoons harissa paste (45 grams)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (30 ml)
• 2 cloves garlic (minced, 10 grams)
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice (15 ml)
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin (5 grams)
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander (5 grams)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Chickpea Salad

• 1 can chickpeas (drained and rinsed, 400 grams)
• 1 large cucumber (diced, 200 grams)
• 2 medium tomatoes (diced, 240 grams)
• ¹⁄₂ red onion (thinly sliced, 50 grams)
• ¹⁄₄ cup fresh parsley (chopped, 15 grams)
• ¹⁄₄ cup fresh mint (chopped, 15 grams)
• 3 tablespoons olive oil (45 ml)
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice (30 ml)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Marinating the Chicken

   In a bowl, combine the harissa paste, olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, ground cumin, and ground coriander. Mix well.
2. Place the chicken breasts in a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the harissa marinade over the chicken, ensuring each piece is well coated.
3. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or overnight for maximum flavor.

4. Preparing the Chickpea Salad

   In a large bowl, combine the drained chickpeas, diced cucumber, diced tomatoes, and sliced red onion.
5. Add the chopped parsley and mint to the bowl.
6. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil and lemon juice. Pour over the chickpea mixture.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Toss well to combine. Set aside to allow the flavors to meld.

8. Cooking the Chicken

   Preheat the oven to 180°C.
9. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add a little olive oil to the skillet.
10. Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting any excess drip off. Sear the chicken breasts in the skillet for 2-3 minutes on each side until browned.
11. Transfer the chicken breasts to a baking dish and bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 75°C.

12. Serving

    Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
13. Serve the sliced harissa chicken alongside the chickpea salad.
14. Garnish with additional parsley and mint, if desired.

Nutrition Facts

Servings 4

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Amount Per Serving

Calories 450kcal

% Daily Value *

Total Fat 22g34%

Saturated Fat 4g20%

Cholesterol 85mg29%

Sodium 420mg18%

Potassium 960mg28%

Total Carbohydrate 28g10%

Dietary Fiber 7g29%

Sugars 6g

Protein 34g68%

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Vitamin A 750 IU

Vitamin C 22 mg

Calcium 70 mg

Iron 3 mg

Vitamin E 3 IU

Vitamin K 55 mcg

Thiamin 0.2 mg

Riboflavin 0.3 mg

Niacin 14 mg

Vitamin B6 0.8 mg

Folate 140 mcg

Vitamin B12 0.5 mcg

Biotin 4 mcg

Pantothenic Acid 1.3 mg

Phosphorus 300 mg

Iodine 40 mcg

Magnesium 75 mg

Zinc 2.5 mg

Selenium 20 mcg

Copper 0.4 mg

Manganese 0.7 mg

Chromium 0.1 mcg

Molybdenum 10 mcg

Chloride 60 mg

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Note

• Adjust the harissa amount based on your heat preference.
• For a milder flavor, use only 2 tablespoons of harissa.
• The chicken can be grilled instead of baked for a smoky flavor.
• Substitute any fresh herbs you prefer in the chickpea salad.
• The salad can be made ahead and refrigerated for up to 2 days.
• Leftover chicken is great for sandwiches or wraps.
• Use Greek yogurt as a cooling side to balance the spiciness.

Tips & Tricks

• Marinate the chicken overnight for deeper flavor.
• Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is perfectly cooked.
• Rinse the chickpeas thoroughly to remove any canning liquid taste.
• Freshly squeezed lemon juice enhances the salad's freshness.
• Add some crushed red pepper flakes for extra spice.
• Serve with pita bread or flatbreads for a complete meal.
• For a vegetarian option, substitute the chicken with grilled halloumi.
• Keep the skin on the chicken for extra moisture and flavor.
• Use a cast-iron skillet for an even sear on the chicken.
• Toast the chickpeas lightly for added crunch in the salad.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with a side of couscous or quinoa.
• Pair with a crisp, chilled white wine.
• Add a dollop of Greek yogurt on the side for a cooling effect.
• Accompany with grilled vegetables for a complete meal.
• Serve with pita bread or naan.
• Garnish with extra fresh herbs for a vibrant presentation.
• A side of hummus complements the flavors well.
• Ideal for outdoor dining and BBQs.
• Great for meal prepping and lunchboxes.
• Serve with a fresh green salad for added crunch and nutrients.

Dietary Restrictions

• This dish is gluten-free and high in protein. It is not suitable for vegetarians or vegans due to the chicken. Adjustments can be made for dairy-free or nut-free diets by ensuring all ingredients used are free from these allergens.

Keywords: Harissa chicken, chickpea salad, North African cuisine, Mediterranean flavors, spicy chicken recipe, healthy dinner, summer BBQ recipes