Get ready to ignite your taste buds with a mouthwatering Middle Eastern-inspired dish that will transform your ordinary dinner into an extraordinary culinary adventure! These Grilled Harissa Sesame Chicken Thighs are not just a meal, they're a flavor explosion that combines the bold, spicy kick of harissa with the nutty richness of sesame, creating a dish so irresistible that you'll want to make it again and again. Perfect for those who crave bold flavors and want to impress their dinner guests with minimal effort, this recipe is about to become your new go-to grilling sensation!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 chicken thighs
- 2 tablespoons harissa paste
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- Salt to taste
- Black pepper to taste
- Sesame seeds for garnish
- Chopped cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- In a small bowl, whisk together harissa paste and sesame oil to make the marinade.
- In a large bowl, place the chicken thighs and pour the harissa-sesame marinade over them. Make sure the chicken is coated evenly, then cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 15 minutes or up to 2 hours.
- Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
- Season the chicken thighs with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Grill the chicken thighs for 5-6 minutes per side, or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Once the chicken is cooked, transfer it to a plate and let it rest for a few minutes.
- Garnish the chicken thighs with sesame seeds and chopped cilantro. Serve hot and enjoy!
Tips
- Pro Tips for Perfect Grilled Harissa Sesame Chicken Thighs:
- Marinating Magic: Don't rush the marinating process. While 15 minutes works, letting the chicken sit for up to 2 hours will allow the harissa and sesame oil to deeply penetrate the meat, creating more intense flavor.
- Temperature is Key: Use a meat thermometer to ensure your chicken reaches the safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). This guarantees juicy, perfectly cooked chicken every time.
- Grill Setup: For best results, create a two-zone grill setup. Start the chicken on the hotter side to get beautiful grill marks, then move to a cooler side to finish cooking without burning.
- Sesame Seed Trick: Toast your sesame seeds lightly in a dry pan before garnishing to enhance their nutty flavor and add an extra layer of complexity to the dish.
- Let It Rest: Always let the chicken rest for 3-5 minutes after grilling. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring each bite is moist and flavorful.Bonus Tip: If you don't have a grill, this recipe works perfectly with a grill pan or even in the oven at 425°F (220°C) for about 25-30 minutes.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 2g
Protein: 28g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 140mg
