Spicy Moroccan Harissa Grilled Chicken Thighs: A Taste of North African Delicacy

Introduction

Embark on a culinary journey to the vibrant streets of Morocco with our tantalizing recipe for Spicy Moroccan Harissa Grilled Chicken Thighs. This dish marries the aromatic flavors of North African cuisine with the succulent juiciness of grilled chicken thighs, creating a symphony of taste that will captivate your senses.

Ingredients

For the Harissa Paste:

• 1 cup dried ancho chiles, stemmed and seeded
• 1/2 cup olive oil
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 teaspoons cumin seeds
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

For the Chicken:

• 12 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
• 1/2 cup harissa paste
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Steps

Making the Harissa Paste:

1. In a large bowl, soak the ancho chiles in boiling water for 20 minutes, or until softened.
2. Drain the chiles and add them to a blender along with the olive oil, cilantro, parsley, garlic, cumin, coriander, salt, and pepper.
3. Puree the mixture until smooth and set aside.

Marinating the Chicken:

1. In a large bowl, combine the chicken thighs, harissa paste, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
2. Use your hands to thoroughly coat the chicken with the marinade.
3. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight.

Grilling the Chicken:

1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
2. Remove the chicken from the marinade and discard the excess.
3. Grill the chicken for 6-8 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Tips

• For a spicier flavor, use more ancho chiles or add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the harissa paste.
• If you don't have a grill, you can also cook the chicken in a grill pan or under the broiler.
• Serve the grilled chicken with your favorite sides, such as couscous, rice, or roasted vegetables.

FAQ

Q: What is harissa?

A: Harissa is a spicy chili paste that originates from North Africa. It is made from a blend of roasted red peppers, cumin, coriander, and other spices.

Q: How long can I store the harissa paste?

A: Harissa paste can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.

Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

A: Yes, you can marinate the chicken up to overnight. Simply remove the chicken from the marinade and pat it dry before grilling.