How long can I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Can I substitute harissa?

Yes, you can use a mix of chili paste and smoked paprika as a substitute.

Is this dish freezer-friendly?

Yes, you can freeze the cooked chicken for up to 2 months. Reheat gently to prevent the sauce from separating.

Can I use chicken breasts instead?

Yes, chicken breasts can be used, but be mindful to adjust the cooking time as they may cook faster.

How can I make it less spicy?

Reduce the amount of harissa paste or substitute with a milder chili paste if desired.

Moroccan Date and Harissa Chicken with Toasted Almonds

Name: Moroccan Date and Harissa Chicken with Toasted Almonds
Prep time: 1 h
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 4
Cuisine: Main Course
Ingredients: Boneless, skinless chicken thighs; Harissa paste; Olive oil; Garlic cloves, minced; Ground cumin; Paprika; Salt and pepper; Chicken broth; Pitted dates, chopped; Honey; Lemon juice; Harissa paste; Raw almonds, sliced; Fresh cilantro, chopped; Lemon wedges

A Sweet and Spicy Middle Eastern Delight

Experience a burst of flavors with this Moroccan-inspired chicken dish, featuring dates, harissa, and toasted almonds. Perfect for those who love a sweet and spicy combo!

1 h 45 min
4
Intermediate

Ingredients

For the Chicken Marinade

Boneless, skinless chicken thighs

Harissa paste

3 tablespoons

Olive oil

2 tablespoons

Garlic cloves, minced

Ground cumin

1 teaspoon

Paprika

1 teaspoon

Salt and pepper

to taste

For the Sauce

Chicken broth

1 cup

Pitted dates, chopped

1/2 cup

Honey

1 tablespoon

Lemon juice

Juice of 1 lemon

Harissa paste

1 tablespoon

For the Toasted Almonds

Raw almonds, sliced

1/4 cup

For the Garnish

Fresh cilantro, chopped

Lemon wedges

Preparation

Marinating the Chicken

Prepare Marinade

In a bowl, mix harissa paste, olive oil, minced garlic, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.

Coat Chicken

Coat the chicken thighs with the marinade, ensuring they are well covered.

Refrigerate

Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, ideally overnight for best results.

For a deeper flavor, marinate the chicken overnight.

Preparing the Sauce

Combine Ingredients

In a saucepan, combine chicken broth, chopped dates, honey, lemon juice, and harissa paste.

Simmer

Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until slightly thickened.

Do not let the sauce boil rapidly, as it can lose its flavors.

Adjust Seasoning

Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.

If the sauce becomes too thick, add a bit more chicken broth.

Cooking Process

Searing the Chicken

Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and sear the marinated chicken thighs for about 3-4 minutes on each side until browned.

Cooking the Sauce with Chicken

Pour the prepared sauce over the chicken in the skillet. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for 20-25 minutes.

Toasting the Almonds

In a small pan, toast the almond slices over medium heat until lightly golden, about 3-5 minutes.

Plating & Serving