Mary Berry Harissa Chicken Recipe [Tips & Tricks]

If you’re looking to spice up your dinner routine, Mary Berry’s harissa chicken recipe is a must-try!

It’s a perfect blend of vibrant flavors, with the smoky, spicy kick of harissa paired with juicy, tender chicken. Mary Berry’s recipes are known for being easy to follow yet packed with flavor, and this one is no exception. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just cooking for the family, this dish is sure to impress. Plus, it’s the kind of recipe that feels fancy but doesn’t take a lot of time to make, so you get a delicious meal with minimal effort. Give it a try, and let your taste buds enjoy the bold flavors!

Mary Berry Harissa Chicken Recipe

Ingredients Needed

Mary Berry’s Harissa Chicken is a vibrant and flavorful dish that brings together a wonderful medley of spices, vegetables, and chicken. To create this dish, you will need the following ingredients:

For The Chicken Marinade

• Chicken pieces (about 6-8 pieces of bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs or drumsticks): Chicken thighs work particularly well here due to their tenderness and ability to absorb flavor. They are juicy and ensure a well-balanced meal with the marinade.
• Harissa paste (2 tablespoons): This North African chili paste is the star of the dish. It’s packed with deep, smoky flavors from roasted peppers, garlic, and a variety of spices, including cumin, coriander, and caraway. The paste brings a fiery kick, so adjust according to your heat preference.
• Olive oil (2 tablespoons): Olive oil helps to coat the chicken and creates a luscious texture for the marinade, allowing all the spices to infuse properly.
• Garlic cloves (2-3 cloves, minced): Garlic brings a rich, aromatic depth that complements the heat from the harissa and balances the flavors of the dish.
• Lemon juice (1 lemon): The fresh acidity from lemon juice brightens up the marinade, cutting through the richness of the chicken.
• Ground cumin (1 teaspoon): This spice adds a warm, earthy flavor to the dish that marries perfectly with the smokiness of harissa.
• Ground paprika (1 teaspoon): Sweet paprika adds a subtle sweetness and depth of flavor, while enhancing the smoky undertones of the harissa.
• Honey (1 tablespoon): A touch of honey helps to balance the heat and acidity in the dish by adding a slight sweetness to the marinade.

For The Vegetables

• Carrots (2 medium, peeled and sliced into rounds): Carrots bring a touch of sweetness and texture to the dish. They absorb the flavors of the marinade during cooking.
• Red onion (1 medium, peeled and sliced): Red onions have a mild sweetness that caramelizes beautifully as they cook, adding complexity to the overall flavor.
• Cherry tomatoes (200g, halved): Cherry tomatoes offer a burst of juiciness and acidity that balances the savory, spiced chicken.

For Garnishing (Optional)

• Fresh parsley or cilantro (a handful, roughly chopped): Fresh herbs are the perfect finishing touch, adding brightness and freshness to the dish.
• Lemon wedges (for serving): A squeeze of fresh lemon just before serving enhances the flavors and adds a zesty, refreshing element.

Equipment Needed

To create Mary Berry’s Harissa Chicken, having the right equipment will make the process smooth and enjoyable. Here’s a list of what you’ll need:

1. Large mixing bowl: To mix the marinade ingredients together and coat the chicken evenly. A bowl big enough to hold the chicken pieces and allow them to marinate comfortably is ideal.

2. Baking dish or roasting tray: A large baking dish or roasting tray is essential for evenly cooking the chicken and vegetables. You’ll want to make sure there’s enough space for everything to roast nicely without overcrowding.

3. Knife and chopping board: To slice the vegetables and prepare the chicken. A sharp knife will help ensure even cuts and efficient prep.

4. Measuring spoons: Accurate measurements of the spices, oils, and liquids ensure the right balance of flavors. It’s always good to have these on hand when working with precise ingredients like harissa paste.

5. Tongs or a brush: For turning the chicken while cooking or basting it with the marinade. A pair of tongs helps you handle the chicken without piercing it, which is important for keeping the juices intact.

6. Aluminum foil (optional): This can be used to cover the dish during part of the cooking process, especially if you want to retain moisture and keep the chicken tender before finishing with a crispy skin.

7. Serving platter: To serve your chicken and vegetables once they’ve finished roasting. A large platter will allow the vibrant colors of the dish to shine and make an impressive presentation.

How To Make Mary Berry’s Harissa Chicken

Creating Mary Berry’s Harissa Chicken is a simple yet rewarding process. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you achieve the perfect dish:

1. Prepare the Marinade:
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the harissa paste, olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, ground cumin, paprika, and honey. Stir well to create a smooth and fragrant marinade. Taste it and adjust for spice levels or sweetness if necessary.

2. Marinate the Chicken:
   Add your chicken pieces into the bowl, making sure each piece is generously coated with the marinade. Use your hands or tongs to massage the flavors into the chicken. Once coated, cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours if you want the flavors to intensify.

3. Prepare the Vegetables:
   While the chicken marinates, prepare your vegetables. Slice the carrots, red onion, and halved cherry tomatoes. These vegetables will roast alongside the chicken, absorbing the delicious juices and adding their own sweetness to the dish.

4. Roast the Chicken and Vegetables:
   Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F). Arrange the marinated chicken pieces in a large baking dish or roasting tray. Scatter the prepared vegetables around the chicken, making sure everything is evenly spread out.

   Place the tray in the oven and roast for about 35-40 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and golden brown on the outside. You can baste the chicken halfway through with some of the marinade to keep it moist and flavorful.

5. Finish and Serve:
   Once the chicken is fully cooked and the vegetables are tender, remove the tray from the oven. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or cilantro and serve with lemon wedges on the side. The fresh herbs will add a pop of color and a refreshing note to balance the spices.

Expert Tips

To take your Harissa Chicken to the next level, here are some expert tips:

• Marinate Longer for Depth of Flavor: While 30 minutes is the minimum marinating time, leaving the chicken to marinate for several hours (or overnight) will allow the spices to penetrate deeper, resulting in more intense flavor.

• Use Skin-On Chicken: Skin-on chicken thighs or drumsticks are best for this recipe as the skin helps to retain moisture during roasting, resulting in tender, juicy chicken with crispy, flavorful skin.

• Adjust Spice Levels: Harissa can vary in heat, so taste the paste before using it. If you’re sensitive to spice, you can reduce the amount of harissa or balance it with more honey to temper the heat.

• Roast the Vegetables in Stages: If you want perfectly roasted vegetables, you might consider roasting the carrots for 10-15 minutes before adding the chicken. Carrots take longer to soften, and starting them first ensures everything cooks evenly.

• Squeeze Lemon Just Before Serving: The acidity from the lemon juice adds a refreshing contrast to the spiced chicken, so squeeze fresh lemon juice over the dish just before serving for an extra burst of brightness.

Mary Berry’s Harissa Chicken is a delightful dish that perfectly balances bold, spicy flavors with the natural sweetness of roasted vegetables. The smoky, slightly spicy harissa marinade complements the juicy chicken, while the roasted carrots, onions, and tomatoes add a savory depth to the meal.

This recipe is incredibly versatile-whether you serve it with couscous, rice, or a fresh salad, it is sure to impress your guests with its vibrant flavors and comforting textures. By following these steps and incorporating a few expert tips, you’ll create a meal that’s not only delicious but also a feast for the senses.

Easy Recipe Variations For Mary Berry’s Harissa Chicken

Mary Berry’s Harissa Chicken is already a flavor-packed dish, combining the smokiness of harissa paste with the richness of tender chicken. However, one of the joys of cooking is that you can always put your own twist on recipes. There are several easy variations that can take this dish to the next level while still retaining the essence of its original flavors.

1. Spice it up with different harissa variations: Harissa is available in several different forms, from the traditional red paste to green harissa or even roasted pepper harissa. Each variety offers a distinct flavor, so switching up the type of harissa can give your dish a completely different vibe. Red harissa tends to be smoky and earthy, while green harissa is typically fresher and more herbaceous with a bit of tang from the green chili peppers. Roasted red pepper harissa has a sweeter, milder flavor perfect for those who want less heat.

2. Incorporate herbs and citrus for a fresh kick: Adding herbs like mint, coriander, or parsley can provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the chicken. A squeeze of lemon or lime juice just before serving can bring a zesty brightness that enhances the overall dish, balancing the deep, spicy flavors.

3. Vegetarian version with cauliflower or tofu: If you’re looking for a vegetarian alternative to Mary Berry’s Harissa Chicken, consider using cauliflower or tofu as the protein substitute. Cauliflower florets can be roasted or sautéed with harissa for a flavorful, smoky texture that mimics the chicken’s tenderness. Tofu, especially when pressed and pan-seared to a golden crisp, can absorb the harissa marinade beautifully and offer a satisfying bite.

4. Harissa Chicken with a twist of sweetness: Add a touch of honey or pomegranate molasses to the harissa marinade for a sweet-and-spicy version. This not only deepens the flavor profile but also creates a beautiful glaze on the chicken as it cooks. The sweetness pairs wonderfully with the heat of the harissa, offering a balanced flavor that’s both bold and complex.

5. Serve it as a bowl meal: Instead of serving the harissa chicken as a traditional entrée, you can turn it into a vibrant bowl meal. Layer cooked quinoa, couscous, or rice at the base of the bowl, and add roasted vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, and zucchini. Top it with the harissa chicken, a dollop of Greek yogurt, and a sprinkle of toasted nuts or seeds for added crunch.

6. Harissa Chicken Skewers: For a fun party or BBQ-friendly variation, marinate chicken pieces in the harissa mixture, then skewer them with vegetables like bell peppers, onions, and cherry tomatoes. Grill or roast the skewers until cooked through, and serve with a cooling yogurt sauce for dipping. This portable, easy-to-eat version will impress guests and make for a lively meal.

Best Practices To Store Leftovers

When you’ve got leftovers from your delicious Harissa Chicken dish, it’s important to store them properly to preserve flavor and freshness. Here are some best practices for storing leftovers:

1. Cool down properly: Always allow your leftover chicken to cool to room temperature before storing it. This helps prevent bacterial growth and ensures that your leftovers remain safe to eat. However, don’t leave the chicken out for more than two hours.

2. Airtight containers are key: Store the leftover harissa chicken in an airtight container. This will prevent it from absorbing any unwanted odors from your fridge and will also help maintain the moisture in the chicken. Glass containers work well because they don’t absorb smells and are less prone to staining than plastic.

3. Separate the chicken from sides: If you’ve served your harissa chicken with rice, couscous, or vegetables, it’s best to store them in separate containers. While it’s possible to store everything together, the rice and veggies can become soggy when mixed with the chicken’s sauce. Keeping them apart helps preserve the textures and flavors of each component.

4. Refrigeration and freezing guidelines: Leftover harissa chicken can be stored in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. If you don’t think you’ll finish it within that time frame, you can freeze the chicken for up to 3 months. When freezing, be sure to portion it into smaller, individual servings, so you can easily thaw only what you need.

5. Reheat properly: When reheating, do so gently to avoid drying out the chicken. Reheat in the oven at a low temperature (around 300°F/150°C) for 10-15 minutes or in the microwave covered with a damp paper towel. For even heating, consider adding a splash of water or chicken broth to help maintain moisture.

What Goes Well With Harissa Chicken

Mary Berry’s Harissa Chicken is a flavorful, spicy dish that pairs well with a variety of sides and accompaniments. Here are a few ideas that will complement the bold flavors of the chicken:

1. Couscous or Quinoa: These light, fluffy grains are the perfect base for a spicy, saucy dish like harissa chicken. Couscous, with its quick cooking time, soaks up the flavors of the harissa marinade, making every bite a delicious experience. Alternatively, quinoa offers a nutty taste and extra protein, providing a hearty and nutritious accompaniment.

2. Greek Yogurt or Tzatziki: The cooling effect of yogurt perfectly balances the heat of the harissa. A dollop of plain Greek yogurt can tone down the spice and provide a creamy, refreshing contrast. Tzatziki, with its cucumber, garlic, and dill components, brings an extra layer of flavor and tanginess that elevates the dish.

3. Grilled Vegetables: Vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, eggplant, and onions make excellent side dishes when grilled or roasted. Their smoky, charred flavor pairs beautifully with the bold heat of the harissa chicken, and their natural sweetness complements the spices in the marinade.

4. Pita Bread or Flatbreads: For a more Mediterranean-inspired meal, serve your harissa chicken with warm, soft pita bread or flatbreads. The bread can help soak up the flavorful sauce, providing an extra layer of texture and making the meal more filling.

5. Salads: A light, crisp salad works wonders as a side for harissa chicken, offering a refreshing balance to the rich, spicy flavors of the dish. A simple salad of mixed greens, tomatoes, cucumbers, and a lemony vinaigrette will add a nice touch of acidity. Alternatively, a fennel or carrot salad with a citrus dressing could enhance the dish’s overall freshness.

6. Rice Pilaf: A fragrant rice pilaf with a mix of herbs, nuts, and dried fruit like raisins or apricots can bring out the aromatic qualities of the chicken while providing sweetness to balance out the heat.

Conclusion

Mary Berry’s Harissa Chicken is a versatile and dynamic dish that can be tailored to suit different tastes and dietary needs. Whether you’re enhancing the flavors with extra spices, making a vegetarian alternative, or pairing it with flavorful sides, there are countless ways to enjoy this delicious recipe.

By following best practices for storing leftovers, you can savor the dish over several meals without sacrificing quality. And as for what to serve alongside, the options are endless-whether it’s grains, vegetables, or a creamy sauce, the right accompaniment will elevate the dish to new heights. In all, this dish offers a rich, savory experience that is both satisfying and easy to customize, making it a perfect choice for any occasion.

FAQs

What Is Mary Berry’s Harissa Chicken Recipe?

Mary Berry’s harissa chicken recipe is a flavorful dish that features chicken marinated in a spicy, aromatic harissa paste, alongside a blend of other ingredients such as olive oil, lemon, and various spices. The chicken is then roasted until golden and tender, offering a zesty, savory meal that combines rich spices with the natural sweetness of the chicken.

What Ingredients Do I Need For Mary Berry’s Harissa Chicken Recipe?

The key ingredients for this recipe include chicken pieces (often thighs or breasts), harissa paste, olive oil, garlic, lemon, honey, and a selection of spices such as cumin and paprika. Fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley can be used for garnish. Some variations may include vegetables like onions or bell peppers for extra flavor.

Can I Make Mary Berry’s Harissa Chicken Recipe Without Harissa Paste?

If you don’t have harissa paste, you can substitute it with a combination of chili paste, paprika, cumin, garlic, and a bit of olive oil to replicate the flavor profile. However, the unique tangy and spicy heat of harissa may not be fully replicated, so it’s best to try and find the paste for authenticity.

Is Mary Berry’s Harissa Chicken Recipe Spicy?

Yes, Mary Berry’s harissa chicken recipe does have a spicy kick, as harissa paste is typically made from chili peppers. However, the level of spiciness can be adjusted by using more or less harissa paste, or opting for a mild version if you prefer less heat.

How Long Should I Marinate The Chicken For The Harissa Chicken Recipe?

For the best flavor, it’s recommended to marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes, but marinating for a few hours or overnight will allow the spices to penetrate the meat more deeply, resulting in a richer taste.

Can I Use Boneless Chicken For Mary Berry’s Harissa Chicken Recipe?

Yes, you can use boneless chicken such as chicken breasts or thighs for Mary Berry’s harissa chicken recipe. Boneless cuts will cook faster, so be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly to avoid overcooking.

Can I Cook Mary Berry’s Harissa Chicken Recipe In An Air Fryer?

Yes, you can cook Mary Berry’s harissa chicken recipe in an air fryer. Simply preheat the air fryer to around 375°F (190°C), place the marinated chicken in the basket, and cook for 20-25 minutes, depending on the thickness of the chicken pieces. Ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure it’s cooked through.

What Side Dishes Pair Well With Mary Berry’s Harissa Chicken?

Mary Berry’s harissa chicken pairs wonderfully with a variety of side dishes, including couscous, roasted vegetables, a simple salad, or even rice pilaf. You can also serve it with a cooling yogurt or tzatziki sauce to balance out the heat from the harissa.

Can I Prepare Mary Berry’s Harissa Chicken Recipe Ahead Of Time?

Yes, you can prepare Mary Berry’s harissa chicken ahead of time. You can marinate the chicken in the harissa paste and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours.

Once marinated, it can be cooked the next day. Leftover cooked chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

How Do I Know When The Chicken Is Fully Cooked In Mary Berry’s Harissa Chicken Recipe?

To check if the chicken is fully cooked, use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature has reached 165°F (74°C). Alternatively, you can cut into the thickest part of the chicken and ensure the juices run clear with no pink remaining.