North African-Style Harissa Orange Chicken Thighs is a bold and flavorful dish that bursts with the vibrant tastes of the region.
The chicken thighs are coated in a spicy and aromatic Harissa paste, made from a blend of chili peppers, garlic, cumin, and other fragrant spices.
The addition of honey and orange zest adds a sweet and citrusy note to balance out the heat of the Harissa.
Honey is a common ingredient used in North African cuisine and it adds a unique sweetness to savory dishes.
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Read More – Cooking & Baking With Honey
The chicken is then place into a baking dish with orange juice and roasted until tender and juicy, creating a perfect balance of textures.
This dish is usually served with a side of couscous or rice, soaking up all the delicious flavors. But you can also add a vegetable side, like this Middle Eastern Style Roasted Carrots With Pomegranate Molasses And Mint or a fresh salad, such as this Moroccan-Style Carrot Salad.
With this dishes rich and complex flavors, North African-Style Harissa Orange Chicken Thighs is a must-try for anyone looking to explore the diverse and delicious cuisine of North Africa.
North African Style Harissa Orange Chicken Thighs
1/4 cup orange juice, fresh squeezed
1 teaspoon orange zest
3 tablespoons harissa paste (sauce)
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons honey
1 teaspoon kosher salt
4 large chicken thighs, bone-in, skin-on (about 2 pounds total)
Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish (optional)
To a medium bowl add zest, harissa paste or sauce, olive oil, honey and salt. Stir to combine. Set aside.
Pour the orange juice into an 8×8-inch baking dish. Set aside.
Pat chicken thighs dry with paper towels. Use your fingers to gently loosen and pull the skin away from the meat without removing it.
Place thighs into bowl with harissa mixture and the mixture over thighs, working it gently under the skin. Place skin-side up in a single layer in the baking dish.
Set aside on kitchen counter to marinate while the oven heats.
Arrange a rack in the center of the oven and heat to 425 degrees.
When oven has heated, place baking dish in oven, roast chicken 25 to 35 minutes. It should be lightly browned, cooked through.
Plate and serve with this Nigerian Jollof Rice or this South African Yellow Rice or one of the sides suggested earlier.
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