This Honey Harissa Chicken with Roasted Squash is a delightful dish that combines sweet and spicy flavors for a satisfying meal. We marinate the harissa chicken in a blend of honey and spices, which creates a deliciously sticky glaze that pairs perfectly with tender roasted squash. The recipe is simple, and you can prepare it in under an hour, making it an excellent option for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Flavorful Honey Harissa Chicken
Honey harissa chicken is a delightful dish that brings together sweet and spicy notes, making it a perfect choice for any meal. The chicken thighs, marinated in a rich blend of honey and harissa paste, develop a sticky glaze that enhances their juiciness.
When paired with roasted butternut squash, this dish not only satisfies the palate but also pleases the eyes. The vibrant colors of the chicken and squash create an appetizing presentation that is sure to impress guests or family alike.
Preparation Steps for Harissa Chicken
To create this dish, begin by preheating your oven to a high temperature, which is essential for achieving that perfect roast. The chicken thighs should be coated in the honey harissa marinade, allowing the flavors to penetrate the meat.
Meanwhile, the butternut squash cubes are tossed with spices and olive oil, ensuring they are well-seasoned before roasting. This step is crucial for bringing out the natural sweetness of the squash, which complements the spicy chicken beautifully.
Cooking Techniques
Roasting is the key technique used in this recipe. By placing the marinated chicken and seasoned squash on a baking sheet, they can cook together, allowing their flavors to meld. The high heat of the oven caramelizes the sugars in both the chicken and squash, resulting in a deliciously sticky texture.
Monitoring the cooking time is important; the chicken should be cooked through while the squash becomes tender and slightly caramelized. This balance ensures that both components of the dish are perfectly cooked.
Serving Suggestions
Once cooked, the honey harissa chicken and roasted squash can be plated beautifully. A sprinkle of fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley adds a pop of color and freshness to the dish. This garnish not only enhances the visual appeal but also adds a layer of flavor that brightens the overall meal.
Serving this dish on a rustic wooden table setting enhances the warmth and inviting nature of the meal, making it an excellent choice for gatherings or cozy dinners at home.
Nutritional Benefits
This honey harissa chicken with roasted squash is not just delicious; it also offers a balanced nutritional profile. Each serving provides a good amount of protein from the chicken, while the butternut squash contributes essential vitamins and minerals.
With approximately 350 calories per serving, this dish is a satisfying option for those looking to enjoy a hearty meal without overindulging. The combination of healthy fats from olive oil and the natural sweetness of honey makes it a wholesome choice.
Flavorful Honey Harissa Chicken Recipe
This dish features juicy chicken thighs marinated in a honey harissa sauce, roasted alongside seasonal squash until caramelized. It serves 4 people and takes about 45 minutes from start to finish.
Ingredients
- 4 chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on
- 1/4 cup harissa paste
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 medium butternut squash, peeled and cubed
- A teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Fresh cilantro or parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, mix the harissa paste, honey, olive oil, salt, and black pepper.
- Marinate the Chicken: Coat the chicken thighs in the marinade and let them sit for at least 15 minutes.
- Prepare the Squash: In a separate bowl, toss the cubed butternut squash with olive oil, cumin, smoked paprika, and a pinch of salt.
- Arrange on a Baking Sheet: Place the marinated chicken thighs on one side of a baking sheet and the seasoned squash on the other side.
- Roast: Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the squash is tender and caramelized.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley before serving. Enjoy your honey harissa chicken with roasted squash hot.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
Nutrition Information
- Servings: 4 servings
- Calories: 350kcal
- Fat: 20g
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
Final Thoughts on Harissa Chicken
Honey harissa chicken thighs paired with roasted butternut squash create a dish that is both visually stunning and packed with flavor. The simplicity of the preparation, combined with the rich taste, makes it a standout option for any occasion.
Whether you are cooking for a special gathering or a weeknight dinner, this recipe is sure to impress and satisfy. Enjoy the delightful blend of sweet and spicy flavors, and savor every bite of this vibrant meal.
References
- ClevelandClinic – The health benefits of eating squash
- WebMD – Health Benefits of Chicken
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