Harissa Marinated Chicken Skewers have become my go-to for adding a vibrant kick to any meal. I first tried them at a summer barbecue, and the aroma of smoky, spicy chicken sizzling on the grill was absolutely intoxicating. That deep, complex flavor from the harissa, balanced with the cool yogurt and bright lemon, was something I knew I had to recreate. This isn’t just any chicken skewer; it’s an explosion of North African and Mediterranean flavors that will transport your taste buds. The spicy chicken skewers harissa marinade is incredibly easy to whip up, making these perfect for a weeknight dinner or a show-stopping appetizer. If you’re looking for a way to spice up your dinner routine, you’ve come to the right place. Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love These Harissa Marinated Chicken Skewers
Get ready to fall in love with these flavorful skewers. They’re incredibly versatile and pack a punch of deliciousness!
- Incredible Flavor: The spicy harissa marinade creates a deep, complex taste that’s truly unforgettable.
- Simple to Make: This is an easy harissa chicken skewer recipe that comes together quickly, perfect for busy nights.
- Versatile Cooking: Grill them for that perfect smoky char or bake them in the oven – they’re delicious either way.
- Healthy Choice: Lean chicken thighs are packed with protein, making this a satisfying and wholesome meal.
- Authentic Taste: Experience the vibrant flavors of North African chicken skewers harissa inspires.
- Great for Entertaining: These skewers are always a crowd-pleaser for parties and BBQs.
- Quick Meal Prep: Marinate ahead of time and you’ll have dinner ready in minutes.
Ingredients for Harissa Marinated Chicken Skewers
Here’s what you’ll need to create these incredibly flavorful marinated chicken skewers with harissa paste:
- 1.5 lbs boneless skinless chicken thighs – I prefer thighs for their tenderness, but chicken breast works too.
- 3 tablespoons harissa paste – This is the heart of our marinade, providing that signature spicy, smoky flavor. Adjust the amount based on your spice preference!
- 2 tablespoons olive oil – A good quality extra virgin olive oil adds richness and helps distribute the flavors.
- 2 tablespoons plain Greek yogurt – This secret ingredient makes the marinade extra creamy and helps tenderize the chicken beautifully.
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice – Adds a bright, zesty counterpoint to the spice.
- 3 garlic cloves, minced – Fresh garlic is key for that pungent aroma and taste.
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin – Earthy and warm, it complements the harissa perfectly.
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander – Adds a subtle citrusy, floral note.
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika – Enhances the smoky depth of the dish.
- Salt and black pepper to taste – Essential for bringing all the flavors together.
- Wooden or metal skewers – If using wooden skewers, remember to soak them in water for at least 30 minutes beforehand to prevent burning.
How to Make Harissa Marinated Chicken Skewers
Now for the fun part – turning that delicious marinade into an amazing meal! Follow these simple steps for perfectly cooked chicken skewers and fluffy couscous.
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
First, let’s get that chicken infused with flavor. In a large bowl, whisk together the 3 tablespoons harissa paste, 2 tablespoons olive oil, 2 tablespoons plain Greek yogurt, 1 tablespoon lemon juice, 3 minced garlic cloves, 1 teaspoon ground cumin, 1 teaspoon ground coriander, ½ teaspoon smoked paprika, and a generous pinch of salt and pepper. Cut your 1.5 lbs boneless skinless chicken thighs into uniform 1.5-inch chunks – this ensures even cooking. Toss the chicken pieces thoroughly in the marinade until every piece is coated. Cover the bowl and let it work its magic in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour, or for even deeper flavor, marinate it overnight.
Step 2: Skewer the Chicken
Once the chicken has had time to marinate, it’s time to get them ready for the heat. If you’re using wooden skewers, make sure they’ve been soaking in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent them from burning on the grill. Carefully thread the marinated chicken pieces onto the skewers. Don’t pack them too tightly; leave a little space between each piece. This allows the heat to circulate and cook the chicken evenly, ensuring a beautiful char and tender bite.
Step 3: Grill or Bake the Skewers
Let’s cook these beauties! Preheat your grill or grill pan to a medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking. Place the skewers on the hot grill and cook for about 12–15 minutes. Turn them every few minutes so they get a lovely, even char on all sides. You’re looking for the chicken to be cooked through and slightly caramelized. If you’re baking these oven baked harissa chicken skewers, arrange them on a wire rack set over a foil-lined baking sheet. Broil for 10–12 minutes, rotating the skewers halfway through, until they’re perfectly cooked and slightly browned. The aroma will tell you they’re almost ready!
Step 4: Prepare the Fluffy Couscous
While the chicken is cooking, let’s whip up some fluffy couscous to serve alongside. In a medium saucepan, bring 1 ¾ cups low-sodium chicken broth or water to a rolling boil. Once boiling, stir in the 1 ½ cups couscous, ½ teaspoon salt, and 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter. Cover the saucepan tightly, remove it from the heat, and let it sit undisturbed for 5 minutes. This steaming process makes the couscous incredibly light and fluffy.
Step 5: Finish the Couscous
After the couscous has rested, uncover it and gently fluff it with a fork. Now, let’s add some fresh flavors! Stir in the zest of 1 lemon for a bright, citrusy burst, and then mix in the ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley or mint and ¼ cup finely chopped red onion or scallions. If you like, you can also add optional toppings like crumbled feta cheese, toasted almonds, or pomegranate seeds for extra texture and flavor.
Step 6: Serve
It’s time to bring it all together! Arrange the fluffy couscous on serving plates. Place the hot, juicy grilled harissa chicken kebabs right on top of the couscous. Spoon any delicious pan juices from the grill or baking sheet over the skewers and couscous. This completes the dish and adds an extra layer of flavor. Enjoy your delicious how to make harissa chicken skewers creation!
Pro Tips for the Best Harissa Marinated Chicken Skewers
Want to elevate your chicken skewers from good to unforgettable? I’ve picked up a few tricks over the years that guarantee success every time. These tips will help you achieve perfect texture and maximum flavor for your North African chicken skewers.
- For the deepest flavor, marinate your chicken overnight. The longer it sits, the more the spices penetrate.
- Don’t overcrowd the skewers! Leave a little space between chicken pieces so they cook evenly and get a nice char.
- If you’re grilling, make sure your grill grates are clean and well-oiled to prevent sticking.
- Taste your harissa paste before using it – some brands are spicier than others, and you’ll want to adjust accordingly.
What’s the secret to perfect harissa chicken skewer marinade?
The key to the best harissa chicken skewer marinade is the balance of heat, acidity, and fat. Using Greek yogurt and olive oil not only tenderizes the chicken but also ensures the harissa paste adheres beautifully for maximum flavor infusion.
Can I make harissa chicken skewers ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can marinate the chicken and thread it onto the skewers up to 24 hours in advance. Store them covered in the refrigerator. This makes them perfect for meal prep and ensures you have a quick dinner ready to go.
How do I avoid common mistakes with harissa chicken skewers?
A common pitfall is dry chicken; don’t overcook them! Also, remember to soak wooden skewers to prevent burning. Lastly, ensure your grill is hot enough before adding the skewers for that perfect sear.
Best Ways to Serve Harissa Marinated Chicken Skewers
These vibrant skewers are incredibly versatile and pair beautifully with a variety of sides. For a truly authentic North African and Mediterranean experience, serve them hot over a bed of the fluffy couscous prepared earlier. The couscous soaks up all the delicious juices from the chicken, creating a wonderfully satisfying dish. Another fantastic option is to serve them alongside a crisp green salad with a lemon vinaigrette, offering a refreshing contrast to the spice. You can also create a delightful mezze platter by adding hummus, baba ghanoush, and warm pita bread. And if you’re looking for a dipping sauce, a simple cooling yogurt sauce or a creamy tzatziki complements the heat of the chicken skewers with spicy harissa sauce perfectly.
Nutrition Facts for Harissa Marinated Chicken Skewers
When enjoying these flavorful skewers, it’s helpful to have an idea of the nutritional breakdown. Keep in mind these are estimates, as the exact values can vary based on specific ingredients like the harissa paste and chicken cut used.
- Serving Size: 1 serving (approx. 3 skewers)
- Calories: Estimated 450-550 kcal
- Fat: Estimated 20-30g
- Saturated Fat: Estimated 5-8g
- Unsaturated Fat: Estimated 15-20g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: Estimated 30-40g
- Fiber: Estimated 3-5g
- Sugar: Estimated 5-10g
- Protein: Estimated 35-45g
- Sodium: Estimated 500-700mg (varies with broth and added salt)
- Cholesterol: Estimated 100-130mg
Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used.
How to Store and Reheat Harissa Marinated Chicken Skewers
Leftover harissa marinated chicken skewers are a delicious bonus, perfect for quick lunches or dinners. Once cooked, let the skewers cool completely before storing. This is crucial to prevent condensation and sogginess. For the best results, store them in an airtight container. You can keep them in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. They make fantastic additions to salads or wraps, and are just as good cold as they are reheated. If you need to store them for longer, consider freezing. Place the cooled skewers in a freezer-safe bag or container, ensuring they are well-sealed to prevent freezer burn. They should last for about 3 months in the freezer. This storage advice applies whether you made them on the grill or as sheet pan harissa chicken skewers.
To reheat, you have a few options. For a quick reheat, you can pop them in the microwave for a minute or two, though they might lose some of their crispness. For a better texture, gently warm them in a skillet over medium-low heat for a few minutes, turning occasionally. You can also reheat them in a preheated oven or toaster oven at around 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes, until heated through. This method helps retain some of that delicious charred exterior.
Frequently Asked Questions About Harissa Marinated Chicken Skewers
What is harissa and why use it for chicken marinade?
Harissa is a North African chili paste made from roasted red peppers, garlic, and a blend of spices like caraway, coriander, and cumin. It offers a complex, smoky, and spicy flavor profile that is absolutely incredible for marinating chicken. Using harissa for chicken marinade adds a unique depth and heat that you just can’t get from other spice blends, making your chicken skewers truly stand out.
What is the best way to marinate chicken for skewers?
The best way to marinate chicken for skewers involves creating a balanced marinade that tenderizes the meat while infusing it with flavor. For these harissa marinated chicken skewers, I whisk together the harissa paste with olive oil, yogurt, and spices. The yogurt helps break down the chicken fibers, making it extra tender, while the oil and spices ensure every piece gets coated evenly. Marinating for at least an hour, or ideally overnight, allows the flavors to fully penetrate the chicken, resulting in the most delicious and juicy skewers.
Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?
Yes, you can definitely use chicken breast if you prefer! Just be mindful that chicken breast can dry out more easily than thighs. To prevent this, try not to overcook them and perhaps marinate them for a slightly shorter time, around 1-2 hours, as they absorb flavors more quickly. Ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
How do I make these chicken skewers spicier or milder?
Adjusting the heat is simple! For spicier chicken skewers, use a more potent harissa paste or simply add more harissa to the marinade. If you prefer a milder flavor, use less harissa paste and perhaps add a bit more Greek yogurt or a touch of honey to the marinade to balance the heat.
Variations of Harissa Marinated Chicken Skewers You Can Try
While this recipe is fantastic as is, don’t be afraid to get creative! Here are a few ways to switch up your Harissa Marinated Chicken Skewers to suit your tastes or what you have on hand.
- Vegetarian Option: Swap the chicken for firm tofu or halloumi cheese. Marinate and cook them using the same method for a delicious meat-free meal.
- Quick Harissa Chicken Skewers: If you’re short on time, use pre-cut chicken and marinate for just 30 minutes. For an even faster meal, consider these as quick harissa chicken skewers by skipping the couscous and serving with a simple side salad.
- Oven Baked Harissa Chicken Skewers: Don’t have a grill? No problem! These turn out wonderfully as oven baked harissa chicken skewers. Arrange them on a baking sheet and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway, until cooked through and slightly browned.
- Spicy Shrimp Skewers: Substitute shrimp for chicken. Shrimp cooks much faster, so marinate for only 30 minutes and grill/bake for about 2-3 minutes per side.
Ignite Your Tastebuds: 3 Harissa Chicken Skewers
- Total Time: 1 hour 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Halal
Description
Enjoy these flavorful Harissa-Marinated Chicken Skewers served with fluffy couscous. This North African and Mediterranean-inspired dish features juicy chicken marinated in a spicy harissa blend, grilled to perfection. It’s a vibrant and satisfying meal perfect for BBQs or weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs boneless skinless chicken thighs (or chicken breast)
- 3 tablespoons harissa paste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons plain Greek yogurt
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Wooden or metal skewers (soak wooden skewers for 30 minutes)
- 1 ½ cups couscous
- 1 ¾ cups low-sodium chicken broth or water
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
- ½ teaspoon salt
- Zest of 1 lemon
- ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley or mint
- ¼ cup finely chopped red onion or scallions
- Optional toppings: ¼ cup crumbled feta, toasted almonds, or pomegranate seeds
Instructions
- In a large bowl, whisk together harissa paste, olive oil, yogurt, lemon juice, garlic, cumin, coriander, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cut chicken into 1.5-inch chunks. Toss chicken in the marinade, cover, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (or overnight).
- Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto skewers, leaving space between each piece for even cooking.
- Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grates. Grill skewers for 12–15 minutes, turning every few minutes, until cooked through and slightly charred. For oven broiling, place skewers on a rack over a foil-lined baking sheet and broil for 10–12 minutes, rotating halfway.
- While chicken cooks, bring chicken broth or water to a boil in a saucepan. Stir in couscous, salt, and olive oil or butter. Cover, remove from heat, and let sit for 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork.
- Stir lemon zest, chopped herbs, red onion or scallions, and any optional toppings into the couscous.
- Serve the harissa chicken skewers hot over the fluffy couscous. Spoon any juices over the dish.
Notes
- For maximum flavor, marinate the chicken overnight.
- If using wooden skewers, remember to soak them in water for 30 minutes before use to prevent burning.
- Adjust harissa paste amount to your spice preference.
- A cooling yogurt sauce or tzatziki makes a great accompaniment.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Mediterranean, North African
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving (approx. 3 skewers)
- Calories: Estimated 450-550 kcal
- Sugar: Estimated 5-10g
- Sodium: Estimated 500-700mg (varies with broth and added salt)
- Fat: Estimated 20-30g
- Saturated Fat: Estimated 5-8g
- Unsaturated Fat: Estimated 15-20g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: Estimated 30-40g
- Fiber: Estimated 3-5g
- Protein: Estimated 35-45g
- Cholesterol: Estimated 100-130mg
Keywords: Harissa Marinated Chicken Skewers, Spicy chicken skewers, Grilled harissa chicken kebabs, Easy harissa chicken skewer recipe, North African chicken skewers