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Harissa Yogurt Chicken Marinade Recipe

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4.5 from 52 reviews

This Harissa Yogurt Chicken Marinade recipe blends creamy Greek yogurt with spicy harissa paste, garlic, and fresh lemon for a flavorful and tender grilled or oven-cooked chicken dish. Perfect for adding a warm, spicy kick to your dinner, this marinade tenderizes the meat while infusing it with vibrant, zesty flavors.

Ingredients

For the Marinade

  • 1 cup Plain Greek yogurt
  • 2 tablespoons Harissa paste
  • 2 tablespoons Olive oil
  • 3 cloves Garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon Lemon zest
  • 2 tablespoons Lemon juice
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Chicken

  • Chicken pieces (about 4-6 pieces, such as thighs or breasts)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Marinade: In a medium-sized bowl, combine the plain Greek yogurt, harissa paste, olive oil, minced garlic, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Stir until the mixture is smooth and well blended.
  2. Season the Marinade: Add salt and pepper according to your taste preferences, mixing gently to ensure even seasoning.
  3. Marinate the Chicken: Coat the chicken pieces thoroughly with the marinade, ensuring every piece is well covered. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or for best results, overnight to allow the flavors to deeply infuse.
  4. Preheat the Grill or Oven: When ready to cook, preheat your grill or oven to a medium-high heat. If using the oven, set it to 400°F (200°C).
  5. Cook the Chicken: Place the marinated chicken on the grill or on a baking sheet if using the oven. Cook until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C), using a meat thermometer to check doneness. This should take about 25-30 minutes depending on the heat source and size of the pieces.
  6. Rest and Serve: Remove the chicken from heat and let it rest for a few minutes before serving to retain juices and flavor.

Notes

  • Marinating the chicken overnight will enhance the flavor and tenderness.
  • You can adjust the amount of harissa paste to control the spice level.
  • Use a meat thermometer for accurate cooking and safe internal temperature.
  • Serve with fresh salad, rice, or flatbread for a complete meal.