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Honeyed Harissa Roast Chicken

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Honeyed Harissa Roast Chicken is a bold, flavorful twist on a classic roast. Coated in a spicy-sweet harissa glaze and slow-roasted to perfection, it’s juicy, tender, and incredibly aromatic with notes of garlic, lemon, and smoky spices.

  • Author: Sophia
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 2 hours 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4–6 servings
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Roasting
  • Cuisine: North African-Inspired
  • Diet: Halal

Ingredients

  • 1 (5-lb) whole chicken, giblets removed
  • 3 tbsp red harissa paste
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tbsp honey
  • 1/2 tsp ground cumin
  • 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp kosher salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1 lemon, quartered
  • 3 garlic cloves, peeled
  • Fresh thyme, for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C). Place chicken in a baking dish and season inside and out with a pinch of salt.
  2. In a bowl, mix harissa paste, olive oil, honey, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
  3. Rub the mixture all over the chicken, including inside the cavity. Stuff the cavity with lemon wedges and garlic cloves. Tie legs with kitchen twine.
  4. Roast chicken for 1 hour. Baste with pan juices.
  5. Roast for another hour, basting again. Check internal temperature—should reach 165°F in the thickest part. Roast in 15-minute intervals if needed.
  6. Remove from oven and let rest for 20 minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh thyme if desired.

Notes

  • Use orange instead of lemon for a sweeter citrus flavor.
  • Add herbs like rosemary or oregano to the marinade for an herby twist.
  • Try hot smoked paprika for more depth and spice.
  • Use bone-in chicken thighs or drumsticks for a quicker variation (40–50 minutes cook time).
  • Marinate the chicken in advance to deepen flavor.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://savorymomskitchen.com/honeyed-harissa-roast-chicken/