Moroccan Date and Harissa Chicken with Toasted Almonds
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!

Preparation
Get these tasks done before you start cooking.
Marinating the Chicken
- 1
Prepare Marinade
In a bowl, mix harissa paste, olive oil, minced garlic, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- 2
Coat Chicken
Coat the chicken thighs with the marinade, ensuring they are well covered.
- 3
Refrigerate
Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, ideally overnight for best results.
Tip: For a deeper flavor, marinate the chicken overnight.
Preparing the Sauce
- 1
Combine Ingredients
In a saucepan, combine chicken broth, chopped dates, honey, lemon juice, and harissa paste.
- 2
Simmer
Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until slightly thickened.
Tip: Do not let the sauce boil rapidly, as it can lose its flavors.
- 3
Adjust Seasoning
Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
Tip: If the sauce becomes too thick, add a bit more chicken broth.
How to Make Moroccan Date and Harissa Chicken with Toasted Almonds
Total time: 2 h 20 min · Yields 4 servings
- 1
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.
- 2
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.
- 3
Toasting the Almonds
In a small pan, toast the almond slices over medium heat until lightly golden, about 3-5 minutes.
Chef's Tips
Frequently asked questions
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.
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