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Homemade Harissa-Roasted Chicken with Lemon Potatoes photo

Harissa-Roasted Chicken with Lemon Potatoes

This Harissa-Roasted Chicken with Lemon Potatoes is bursting with bold, smoky spice and bright citrus—an easy, impressive one-pan meal perfect for any occasion.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 35 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: North African

Ingredients
  

  • 1 whole chicken 4-5 pounds
  • 3 tablespoons harissa paste
  • 2 lemons zest and juice
  • 4 cloves garlic minced
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • salt
  • pepper
  • 2 pounds baby potatoes halved
  • fresh parsley chopped, for garnish

Equipment

  • Roasting pan or large oven-safe skillet
  • Sharp knife
  • Mixing bowl
  • Zester or microplane
  • Tongs or large spoon

Method
 

  1. In a mixing bowl, combine the harissa paste, lemon zest, lemon juice, minced garlic, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Whisk together until smooth and well blended.
  2. Pat the whole chicken dry with paper towels. Loosen the skin over the breasts and thighs. Rub about two-thirds of the harissa marinade under the skin and over the chicken surface.
  3. In a separate bowl, toss the halved baby potatoes with the remaining marinade until well coated.
  4. Place the chicken breast-side up in the center of your roasting pan or oven-safe skillet. Scatter the marinated potatoes around the chicken evenly.
  5. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Roast chicken and potatoes for 1 hour to 1 hour 15 minutes, until chicken reaches 165°F (75°C) and potatoes are tender and golden. Halfway through, baste chicken and toss potatoes.
  6. Remove from oven and let chicken rest for 10-15 minutes. Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over chicken and potatoes. Carve and serve.

Notes

  • Marinate the chicken and potatoes up to 24 hours ahead for deeper flavor.
  • Use smoked paprika and chili flakes as a harissa substitute if needed.
  • Leftovers keep well up to 3 days; reheat gently to maintain texture.