Spicy Harissa Chicken with Roasted Cauliflower

This Spicy Harissa Chicken with Roasted Cauliflower is a vibrant, flavourful dish that brings together the bold heat of North African harissa with the earthy sweetness of roasted cauliflower. It’s a one-pan meal that delivers both comfort and complexity, making it perfect for a hearty dinner.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Bold Flavours: The harissa paste infuses the chicken with a smoky, spicy kick, complemented by the caramelised cauliflower.
One-Pan Convenience: Minimal cleanup and maximum flavour make this dish ideal for busy weeknights.
Nutritious and Satisfying: Packed with protein and fibre, it’s a wholesome meal that doesn’t compromise on taste.
Versatile: Easily adaptable to suit various dietary preferences and spice levels.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Chicken thighs, bone-in, skin-on
Harissa paste
Olive oil
Garlic cloves
Lemon juice
Ground cumin
Salt and pepper
Cauliflower, cut into florets
Red onion, sliced
Chickpeas, drained and rinsed
Fresh parsley or coriander, chopped (for garnish)

Directions

Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, mix harissa paste, olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, ground cumin, salt, and pepper. Coat the chicken thighs with this mixture and let them marinate for at least 30 minutes.
Prepare the Vegetables: Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F). On a baking sheet, toss cauliflower florets, sliced red onion, and chickpeas with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
Combine and Roast: Place the marinated chicken thighs on top of the vegetable mixture. Roast in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender and slightly charred.
Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven, garnish with chopped fresh parsley or coriander, and serve hot.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Marination Time: 30 minutes
Cooking Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: Approximately 1 hour and 25 minutes

Variations

Vegetarian Option: Substitute chicken with tofu or tempeh, marinated in the same harissa mixture.
Additional Vegetables: Add carrots or bell peppers for extra colour and nutrition.
Grain Base: Serve over couscous, quinoa, or rice to make it more filling.
Dairy Addition: Top with a dollop of Greek yoghurt to balance the heat.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 180°C (350°F) until warmed through, or microwave on medium power, checking every minute to avoid overcooking.

FAQs

What is harissa paste?

Harissa is a North African chilli paste made from roasted red peppers, garlic, spices, and olive oil. It adds a spicy and smoky flavour to dishes.

Can I use boneless chicken?

Yes, boneless chicken thighs or breasts can be used. Adjust cooking time accordingly, as they may cook faster than bone-in pieces.

Is this dish very spicy?

The spiciness depends on the harissa paste used. For a milder version, use less harissa or opt for a mild variety.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can marinate the chicken and prepare the vegetables ahead of time. Assemble and roast when ready to serve.

What can I serve with this dish?

It pairs well with couscous, rice, or a simple green salad.

Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes, freeze in airtight containers for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

How do I know when the chicken is cooked?

The internal temperature should reach 75°C (165°F), and the juices should run clear when pierced.

Can I use store-bought harissa?

Absolutely. Store-bought harissa works well, but check the label for spice levels and adjust quantity to taste.

What if I don’t have chickpeas?

You can omit them or substitute with another legume like cannellini beans.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this dish is naturally gluten-free. Ensure that the harissa paste used does not contain any gluten additives.

Conclusion

Spicy Harissa Chicken with Roasted Cauliflower is a delightful fusion of bold flavours and wholesome ingredients. Its simplicity in preparation combined with its rich taste makes it a standout dish for any occasion. Whether you’re new to harissa or a seasoned fan, this recipe is sure to impress and satisfy.