Description
Harissa & Yogurt Roasted Chicken is a Mediterranean-inspired dish that combines spicy harissa paste with creamy Greek yogurt to create a marinade. This marinade works wonders in tenderizing the chicken, while adding layers of bold flavors to the meat. The result is a perfectly roasted chicken with a crispy skin and juicy, flavorful meat inside. The tanginess of the yogurt complements the heat from the harissa, creating a delicious fusion that both spice lovers and those who prefer milder flavors can enjoy.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Whole chicken (spatchcocked) or bone-in chicken pieces | 1.5–2 kg |
| Plain Greek yogurt | ½ cup (120 g) |
| Harissa paste (mild or hot) | 2–3 tbsp |
| Olive oil | 2 tbsp |
| Garlic, minced | 3–4 cloves |
| Lemon zest | 1 tsp |
| Lemon juice | 2 tbsp |
| Ground cumin | 1 tsp |
| Smoked paprika | 1 tsp |
| Salt | 1–1½ tsp |
| Black pepper | ½ tsp |
| Optional | honey (1 tsp for subtle sweetness), fresh herbs, extra harissa for serving |
Instructions
1️⃣ Make the marinade
In a bowl, mix together: yogurt, harissa, olive oil, garlic, lemon zest & juice, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Taste and adjust heat/salt.
2️⃣ Prep the chicken
Pat chicken dry.
If using whole chicken, spatchcock (remove backbone so it lays flat) for even roasting.
Make shallow slits in the meat for better absorption.
3️⃣ Marinate
Rub marinade all over the chicken, under the skin if possible.
Cover and chill at least 2 hours (overnight = best flavor and tenderness).
4️⃣ Roast
Preheat oven to 400°F / 200°C.
Place chicken on a lined tray or cast iron pan, skin-side up.
Roast 45–60 minutes (internal temp 75°C / 165°F), basting once or twice.
Optional: Broil 2–3 min at the end for darker caramelization.
5️⃣ Rest & serve
Rest 10 minutes before carving.
Serve with lemon wedges, fresh herbs, or extra harissa + yogurt swirl.
Notes
This harissa and yogurt roasted chicken is tender, flavorful, and perfectly spiced. For extra freshness, serve it with a side of couscous, roasted vegetables, or a cooling cucumber salad. You can adjust the heat by adding more or less harissa to suit your taste.
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 45 mins
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Roasted
- Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 piece (approx. 200g)
- Calories: 310
Keywords: Harissa chicken, yogurt roasted chicken, roasted chicken with harissa, spicy yogurt chicken