Harissa Chicken with Exotic Bazaar's Harissa Spice Blend

Introduction
Bring the fiery flavours of North Africa to your kitchen with this easy and delicious Harissa Chicken recipe. Using Exotic Bazaar's Harissa spice blend, this dish combines bold spices with tender, juicy chicken for a meal that’s sure to impress. Whether you're cooking for a family dinner or a weekend barbecue, this recipe delivers a perfect balance of heat, spice, and zest, showcasing the versatility of harissa. Let’s dive in!

Ingredients:

• 1 kg chicken thighs or drumsticks (bone-in, skin-on for extra flavour)
• 2 tablespoons Exotic Bazaar's Harissa spice blend
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon honey (optional, for a touch of sweetness)
• Salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste
• Fresh coriander (optional, for garnish)
• Lemon wedges (for serving)

Method:

1. Prepare the Marinade:
   In a small bowl, mix together the Harissa spice blend, olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, honey (if using), salt, and pepper. Stir until well combined.

2. Marinate the Chicken:
   Rub the marinade all over the chicken pieces, ensuring they are evenly coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavours to infuse—overnight for maximum flavour.

3. Preheat the Oven:
   Preheat your oven to 200°C (392°F). If you prefer to grill, heat your barbecue to medium-high.

4. Cook the Chicken:

   • Oven Method:
     Place the marinated chicken on a lined baking tray, skin side up. Roast in the oven for 35-40 minutes until the chicken is golden, crispy, and cooked through, with an internal temperature of 75°C (165°F).
   • Grill Method:
     Grill the chicken for 5-7 minutes on each side, or until charred and fully cooked, turning halfway through.

5. Serve:
   Remove the chicken from the oven or grill and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh coriander and serve with lemon wedges for added brightness.

Why Harissa?
Exotic Bazaar's Harissa spice blend is a fragrant combination of chillies, garlic, cumin, and caraway, inspired by the traditional Tunisian harissa paste. This dry version offers all the complexity and heat of classic harissa without the need for mixing a paste—making it a convenient and versatile addition to your spice rack.

Serving Suggestions:

• Serve the Harissa Chicken over a bed of couscous, quinoa, or fluffy rice for a complete meal.
• Pair with roasted vegetables or a refreshing cucumber yoghurt salad to complement the spice.
• For a lighter option, shred the chicken and add it to wraps or salads.

Tips:

• For a less intense heat, you can reduce the amount of Harissa spice blend or add extra lemon juice to balance the spice.
• Want extra crispy skin? Place the chicken under the grill for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking, but keep a close eye to prevent burning.

Conclusion:
This Harissa Chicken recipe is a flavour-packed meal that’s sure to satisfy your tastebuds. With the convenience of Exotic Bazaar's Harissa spice blend, you can enjoy the vibrant heat and richness of North African cuisine with minimal effort. Perfect for weeknight dinners or when you want to impress, this recipe is one you'll turn to again and again.