Hey y’all! If you’re looking for a meal that’s bold, vibrant, and absolutely bursting with flavor, these Harissa Chicken Bowls are about to become your new favorite. Juicy, smoky Chicken gets coated in a spicy-sweet harissa marinade, then served over fluffy grains and paired with fresh, crunchy veggies and a creamy, tangy yogurt sauce. Perfect for meal prep, weeknight dinners, or impressing friends—this bowl has it all. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This

Big, bold flavor from smoky harissa paste and aromatic spices.
Quick and easy prep for a healthy weeknight dinner or meal prep.
Customizable with your favorite grains, veggies, or toppings.
Naturally gluten-free and easily made dairy-free.
Packed with protein and fresh veggies for a filling yet light meal.

Ingredients

1 1/2 lbs boneless, skinless Chicken thighs (or breasts)
3 tbsp harissa paste
2 tbsp olive oil
1 lemon, zested and juiced (keep juice and zest separate)
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp smoked paprika
1 tsp ground cumin
3/4 tsp kosher salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
2 cups cooked quinoa (or brown rice, bulgur, or couscous)
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cup cucumber, diced
1/2 small red onion, thinly sliced
1/4 cup fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped
1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
1 tbsp tahini
1 tbsp lemon juice (reserved from above)
Pinch salt and black pepper, to taste
Optional: crumbled feta, sliced avocado, and lemon wedges for serving

Directions

1. Marinate the Chicken

Pat Chicken dry. In a bowl, mix harissa paste, olive oil, lemon zest, garlic, smoked paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper. Add chicken and toss to coat. Marinate for at least 20 minutes (up to 4 hours).

2. Cook the Chicken

Preheat grill, grill pan, or skillet over medium-high heat. Cook chicken for 5-7 minutes per side, until deeply charred and cooked through (internal temp 165°F). Rest for 5 minutes, then slice.

3. Make the Yogurt Sauce

In a small bowl, combine Greek yogurt, tahini, lemon juice, a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir until smooth and creamy. Set aside.

4. Prep Veggies & Grains

While chicken cooks, prepare quinoa (or your grain of choice) according to package instructions. Chop vegetables and herbs.

5. Assemble the Bowls

Divide cooked grains among bowls. Top with sliced harissa chicken, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and herbs. Drizzle with yogurt sauce.

6. Add Toppings & Serve

Add optional toppings like feta, avocado, and lemon wedges. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Notes

For extra smoky flavor, grill the chicken outdoors or use smoked paprika generously.
You can make the yogurt sauce up to 3 days in advance—store it chilled.
Double the marinade and reserve half for drizzling over veggies for even more flavor.

Variations

Vegetarian: Use roasted chickpeas or cauliflower in place of chicken.
Low-Carb: Substitute cauliflower rice for quinoa or grains.
Spicier: Add extra harissa or a pinch of cayenne for more heat.

Required Equipment

Cutting board and chef’s knife
Mixing bowls
Grill, grill pan, or large skillet
Measuring cups and spoons
Small bowl for sauce

Storage Instructions

Store leftover harissa chicken, grains, and veggies in separate airtight containers in the fridge for up to 4 days. Keep the yogurt sauce in a sealed container for up to 3 days. Reheat chicken and grains before assembling bowls; keep veggies and sauce cold for best texture.

Suggested Pairings & Serving Recommendations

Serve with warm naan or flatbread for a hearty meal.
Pair with a crisp white wine or sparkling water with lemon.
Top with extra lemon wedges and a sprinkle of sumac for a Middle Eastern flair.

Pro Tips

Don’t skip marinating—the longer, the better for deep flavor.
Rest the chicken before slicing to keep juices locked in.
Toast the grains briefly in olive oil before cooking for added flavor.

FAQ

Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?: Absolutely! Chicken breasts will work, just adjust cooking time to avoid drying out.
Is harissa very spicy?: Harissa has a gentle warmth, but brands vary. Start with less and add more for extra heat to your taste.
Can I make this ahead for meal prep?: Yes—prep all components ahead and store separately. Assemble just before eating for best freshness.

Harissa Chicken Bowls

Why You’ll Love This

Ingredients