Harissa Chicken with Chermoula Sauce
Some recipes are born in your kitchen. Others follow you home from a restaurant and refuse to leave your mind.
I was inspired to make this after trying an unforgettable appetizer at Cordelia Fishbar on Valentine’s Day in DC. The chicken was extremely succulent, with perfectly crisped with skin-on goodness (breast? thigh? still debating), deeply savory, and served over a harissa-kissed yogurt that tied everything together. It didn’t taste marinated in harissa, but the warmth was there, subtle, layered, intentional.
So naturally, I did what any home cook on a flavor mission would do: I made it my own.
In my version, the chicken is marinated in harissa for bold depth. I used my often-neglected Ninja indoor grill and air fryer, and it delivered that perfect char and gentle smokiness that feels like summer, even when it’s not. And the real star? Chermoula.
If you’ve been following my kitchen journey, you already know: I’ve been championing chermoula for a while now. Think of it as North Africa’s answer to chimichurri—bright, herbaceous, alive. It reflects the Afro-fusion influences and close-to-my-roots flavors that continue shaping my evolution as a home cook. I’ve used it with croaker fish alongside peri peri and harissa, and it never disappoints.
This dish is smoky, herbaceous, creamy, spicy, and fresh all at once. The kind of layered flavor that tastes like you planned ahead—even if you just wanted something impressive for dinner.
Harissa Chicken with Chermoula Sauce
Smoky grilled Harissa Chicken with creamy harissa yogurt and vibrant chermoula. Juicy, bold, and herb-forward, this North African–inspired dish serves 4 and is perfect for weeknight dinners or entertaining.
Ingredients
- 1 cup parsley, finely chopped
- ½ cup cilantro, finely chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 jalapeño, finely diced
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp ground coriander
- ½ tsp cumin
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- 2–4 tbsp olive oil
- 4 large chicken thighs (skinless, bone-in)
- 1.5 tbsp harissa
- 3–4 tbsp olive oil
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp oregano
- ½ tsp cumin
- 1 tsp chicken seasoning
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp onion powder
- Juice of ½ lemon
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- 2/3 cup plain Greek yogurt
- Chilli flakes (optional)
Instructions
- Chermoula: Mix parsley, cilantro, garlic, jalapeño, spices, and olive oil. Set aside. Optional: warm slightly before serving.
- Harissa Marinade and Yogurt: In a bowl, combine harissa, olive oil, garlic powder, oregano, chicken seasoning, smoked paprika, black pepper, onion powder, lemon juice, and sesame oil. Reserve 1–2 tbsp and stir into Greek yogurt; refrigerate for yogurt sauce. Coat the chicken in the remaining marinade and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. If you are pressed for time, 30 minutes works, and overnight will give the deepest flavor.
- Grill Chicken: Preheat grill to medium. Pat chicken dry. Grill 7 minutes per side (14 minutes total) until internal temperature reaches 165°F. Rest 5 minutes, then cut into squares.
- Assemble: Spoon harissa yogurt on plates, add grilled chicken, top with chermoula, and sprinkle chili flakes if desired.
Notes
- Pat chicken dry for better char; fresh lemon brightens the dish; chermoula can be extra sauce.
Nutrition Facts
Calories
460Fat (grams)
32 gCarbs (grams)
6 gFiber (grams)
1 gSugar (grams)
2 gProtein (grams)
38 gI am not a certified nutritionist and any nutritional information on dontmissmyplate.com should only be used as a general guideline.
Huku ne Dovi (Zimbabwean Peanut Chicken Stew)
How to Make Chicken Stew at Home
Zimbabwean Peanut Chicken Stew, also known as huku ne dovi, is a rich and hearty dish that brings together tender chicken, creamy peanut butter, fresh vegetables, hot chilies, and aromatic spices. The result is a perfectly balanced blend of savory and nutty flavors. Whether served over rice, sadza (Zimbabwe’s staple maize porridge), or with warm bread, this traditional dish is a true comfort food favorite.
It might seem like an unusual combination, but across several African cultures, this pairing is wholeheartedly embraced as a bold, comforting meal. In my household, we didn’t have it often, but when we did, it was a glorious treat—especially during the colder months.
A Note on Chilies and Peanut Butter
The key to this dish lies in balancing the heat of the chilies with the creamy sweetness of the peanut butter. You’ll want just enough of both to create a harmonious dance of flavors on your taste buds. That interplay is where the magic of this stew truly shines.
Chicken Texture: Crispy or Tender?
When it comes to the texture of the chicken, there are two camps:
Tender and falling off the bone – Juicy chicken pieces that soak up the stew’s flavors.
Crispy and intact – For those who prefer firmer, browned pieces of chicken.
If you belong to the second group, hold off on adding the chicken back to the pot after browning, or roast the pieces separately and add them just before serving. This way, the chicken stays crispy and retains its texture.
Adjusting the Sauce Consistency
The thickness of the sauce can also be tailored to suit your preference:
Thinner Sauce: Ideal for serving over rice—just shy of soup-like, but light enough to soak into the grains.
Thicker Sauce: Perfect for pairing with sadza or bread, as it clings better to each bite. For a thicker consistency, follow the optional instructions to reduce and thicken the sauce once the flavors have melded together.
Need Some Extra Tips for Your Chicken Stew?
1. Choose the Right Cut of Chicken. Bone-in, skin-on chicken pieces (like thighs, drumsticks, or a whole chicken cut into parts) add rich flavor to the stew. Boneless cuts are also fine but may cook faster and lack the depth of flavor bones provide.
2. Brown the Chicken First. Sear the chicken pieces in hot oil until golden brown before adding them to the stew. This step locks in flavor and adds a delicious depth to the dish.
3. Build Flavor with Aromatics. Use a base of onions, garlic, and fresh or dried herbs like thyme, rosemary, or bay leaves. These aromatics infuse the stew with a rich, savory aroma.
4. Don’t Rush the Cooking Process. A good stew takes time. Simmering the chicken slowly allows the flavors to meld and the meat to become tender. Resist the urge to boil, as this can make the meat tough..
5. Season in Layers. Season the chicken, the broth, and the vegetables as you go. This ensures the flavors are well-balanced throughout the dish. Adjust salt and spices as needed during cooking.
6. Use a Flavorful Liquid. Chicken broth, stock, or even a combination of broth and water enhances the stew's richness. You can also add a splash of wine, coconut milk, or tomato puree for added depth, depending on the recipe.
8. Thicken the Stew to Your Liking. For a thicker consistency, use flour or cornstarch as a thickener. You can also mash a few of the potatoes or add a slurry (a mixture of flour or cornstarch with water).
9. Taste and Adjust Seasoning. Before serving, taste the stew and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness.
10. Garnish for Extra Flavor. Add fresh herbs like parsley, cilantro, or dill just before serving for a pop of freshness. You can also top the stew with a dollop of sour cream or a drizzle of olive oil for added richness.
11. Let It Rest. Allow the stew to sit for a few minutes off the heat before serving. This helps the flavors settle and intensify.
Huku ne Dovi (Spicy Zimbabwean Peanut Chicken Stew)
Zimbabwean Peanut Chicken Stew, or *huku ne dovi*, is a flavorful and comforting dish that combines tender chicken, smooth peanut butter, vibrant vegetables, spicy chilies, and fragrant spices.
Ingredients
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1 whole chicken, cleaned and cut into pieces
- 2 tablespoons chicken spice (I used Hind’s)
- 2 green onions
- 1 large hot chilli pepper
- 1/2 large yellow onion
- 1/2 cup mirepoix (chopped onion, carrots and celery)
- 1-2 tablespoons butter
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- 1 tablespoon Royco Usavi Mix
- 3 chicken bouillon cubes
- 1/3 cup red wine
- 1 cup diced tomatoes
- 3 sweet bell peppers
- 1/3 cup peanut butter
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon ginger
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon coriander
- 1 teaspoon herb blend (I used basil and thyme)
- 3 cups water
- 3 bay leaves
- 2-3 tablespoons cornstarch or flour (optional)
Instructions
- Season the chicken with all-purpose chicken spice, then brown it in a Dutch oven or non-stick pan over medium to medium-high heat. Once browned, remove the chicken and set it aside.
- In the same pot, add the remaining oil and butter. Stir in the mirepoix, onions, bouillon cubes, garlic powder, black pepper, paprika, and Royco Usavi Mix. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until caramelized. Deglaze the pot with the wine, scraping up any browned bits to incorporate all the flavors.
- Next, add the tomatoes, peppers, chili peppers, cumin, ginger, and coriander. Cook for 1-2 minutes to allow the spices to bloom and the vegetables to soften.
- Return the chicken to the pot and pour in the water. Add more water if you prefer a thinner stew or soup-like consistency. Ensure as much of the chicken as possible is submerged to help it cook evenly. Simmer on low heat for 15-20 minutes.
- In a small bowl, mix the peanut butter with some of the hot stew liquid to thin it out. Stir in the tomato paste, then add the mixture to the pot, ensuring it is evenly distributed.
- Add the bay leaves and continue simmering for another 15-20 minutes.
- Optional: After 5-10 minutes, if you don’t want the chicken to fall off the bone, you can remove it and let the stew continue cooking separately to allow the flavors to come together.
- To thicken the sauce: Remove the chicken, then mix 2 tablespoons of cornstarch or flour with hot liquid from the pot to create a smooth slurry. Stir the slurry back into the pot, mixing well to activate the thickening. Continue cooking until the desired consistency is achieved.
- Season to taste, return the chicken to the pot, and serve hot with yellow rice or your preferred starch.
Nutrition Facts
Calories
438Fat (grams)
20.3 gSat. Fat (grams)
4.8 gCarbs (grams)
62.1 gFiber (grams)
18.5 gProtein (grams)
15.6 gI am not a certified nutritionist and any nutritional information on dontmissmyplate.com should only be used as a general guideline.
Lemon Chicken with Caramelized Onions (Chicken Yassa)
I first tried a version of this lemony, onion-packed chicken in Little Senegal in Harlem, and the flavors stuck with me ever since. The combination of tender chicken thighs, tangy lemon, and savory caramelized onions is unforgettable.
This dish works because the chicken is marinated in lemon juice, garlic, and herbs, which not only adds flavor but also keeps it juicy and tender. Searing the chicken first locks in those flavors and gives the skin a lightly crispy texture, while finishing it in the oven ensures it cooks evenly.
Cooking the onions slowly in the same pan caramelizes their natural sugars, creating a rich, tangy pan sauce that coats every piece of chicken. The balance of acidity from the lemon, warmth from the spices, and savoriness from the onions and pan sauce makes it a standout dish.
Serve it over rice or couscous, spooning extra sauce over the top. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners when you want something easy yet flavorful, and impressive enough to serve to guests.
Lemon Chicken with Caramelized Onions (Chicken Yassa)
Tender, juicy lemon chicken thighs cooked with caramelized onions, garlic, and aromatic herbs. This Chicken Yassa-inspired dish is easy to make and perfect for a flavorful weeknight dinner or a special meal. Serve with rice or couscous and enjoy every bite of the zesty, savory pan sauce.
Ingredients
- 4 chicken thighs (bone-in, skin on)
- 1 large sprig fresh thyme
- 1 tablespoon dried thyme
- 1 ½ tablespoons black pepper
- 1 teaspoon hot dried chili, finely chopped
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons minced garlic
- 5 slices fresh lemon
- 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- ¾ cup vegetable broth (½ + ¼ cup)
- 1 chicken bouillon cube
- 2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 2 bay leaves
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- Olives (optional to garnish)
Instructions
- Score chicken and season with 1 tsp salt, 1 tbsp black pepper, dried chili, and minced garlic.
- Add onions, 1 tbsp olive oil, 4 lemon slices, ¾ of the fresh thyme sprig, ¼ cup broth, Dijon mustard, bay leaves, lemon juice, and dried thyme.
- Mix well, cover, and refrigerate for at least 2–4 hours or overnight.
- Heat a large ovenproof pan. Melt butter with 1 tbsp olive oil.
- Brown chicken thighs along with remaining lemon slices and thyme sprigs, ~4 minutes per side until skin is mostly crispy. Remove chicken and lemons; set aside.
- Cook onions and any remaining marinade in the pan fat for ~5 minutes until soft and caramelized.
- Add remaining broth and bouillon cube; simmer 10 minutes. Taste and adjust salt and pepper.
- Place chicken thighs on top of onions, center a hot pepper if desired. Cover with a lid and simmer 10 minutes.
- Transfer the pan to a 400°F oven and cook an additional 10 minutes. Baste chicken with onions and pan sauce at least once.
- Remove bay leaves, lemon slices, and unwanted thyme.
- Plate hot with couscous or rice. Garnish with fresh lemon slice and olives.
Notes
- Marinating: Overnight gives the deepest flavor, but 2 -4 hours is fine for a quicker meal.
- Spice level: Adjust the chili depending on your heat preference.
- Leftovers: Store chicken and onions separately in the fridge; reheat gently to avoid drying out.
Nutrition Facts
Calories
450Fat (grams)
34 gCarbs (grams)
8 gFiber (grams)
1 gProtein (grams)
28 gI am not a certified nutritionist and any nutritional information on dontmissmyplate.com should only be used as a general guideline.
Easy Baked Buffalo Chicken Tenders
Why Chicken Tenders Always Work
Chicken tenders are one of those rare foods that everyone agrees on. They’re easy to eat, quick to cook, and perfect for sharing—whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or a full-on game day spread. Unlike wings, tenders are meatier, less messy, and easier to portion, which makes them ideal for feeding a crowd or serving alongside multiple sides.
Buffalo Flavor, Made Simple
Buffalo sauce brings that unmistakable tangy heat that people crave on game day. It’s bold without being complicated and pairs beautifully with chicken. Baking the tenders instead of frying keeps them juicy while cutting down on oil and cleanup, making this recipe approachable and repeatable. A light layer of melted mozzarella adds just enough creaminess to balance the heat without overpowering the sauce.
Perfect for Game Day or Anytime
These baked buffalo chicken tenders are made to fit any occasion. Serve them as a game day appetizer with dipping sauces, or turn them into an easy lunch or dinner with classic sides like mashed potatoes, peas, coleslaw, or a simple salad. They reheat well, scale easily, and deliver big flavor with minimal effort—exactly the kind of recipe people come back to again and again.
Easy Baked Buffalo Chicken Tenders
Juicy baked buffalo chicken tenders coated in tangy sauce and finished with melted mozzarella for an easy, no-fry lunch or dinner.
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup hot sauce (e.g. Frank’s RedHot–style)
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon honey
- 2 pounds chicken tenders
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2/3 cup buffalo sauce
- 1/3 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Chives, finely chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Add all ingredients to a small saucepan over low heat.
- Whisk gently until the butter melts and the sauce is smooth.
- Remove from heat and set aside.
- Use immediately or cool and store in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
- Preheat oven to 400°F (205°C). Lightly grease or line a baking dish with parchment paper.
- Place the chicken tenders in a large bowl. Squeeze lemon juice over the chicken and toss gently. This helps neutralize any raw chicken smell and brightens the flavor.
- Add thyme, parsley, paprika, black pepper, and salt. Toss until the tenders are evenly coated.
- Transfer the chicken to a deep baking dish. Pour the buffalo sauce over the tenders, turning to coat evenly. Let sit for 10 minutes to absorb flavor.
- Bake uncovered for 20 minutes.
- Remove from the oven, sprinkle mozzarella evenly over the tenders, and return to the oven. Bake for another 5–10 minutes, until the cheese is melted and the chicken is cooked through (internal temp 165°F).
- Garnish with chopped chives if desired. Serve hot with ranch or blue cheese dressing, celery sticks, or your favorite sides.
Notes
Optional Game Day Tips
- Double the recipe easily for parties
- Serve with toothpicks for easy snacking
- Add crushed red pepper or hot honey for extra heat
Nutrition Facts
Calories
420Fat (grams)
18 gCarbs (grams)
8 gSugar (grams)
3 gProtein (grams)
45 gI am not a certified nutritionist and any nutritional information on dontmissmyplate.com should only be used as a general guideline.
How to Make These Buffalo Chicken Tenders in the Air Fryer
If you’d rather skip the oven, these buffalo chicken tenders adapt easily to the air fryer with minimal changes.
After seasoning the chicken and coating it in buffalo sauce, preheat the air fryer to 380°F (193°C). Lightly spray the air fryer basket with oil and arrange the tenders in a single layer, working in batches if needed. Air fry for 10 minutes, flip, then cook for another 6–8 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
Sprinkle the mozzarella cheese over the tenders and return them to the air fryer for 1–2 minutes, just until the cheese melts. Garnish with chopped chives and serve immediately.
Buffalo Sauce Variations
One of the best things about buffalo chicken is how easy it is to customize the heat level.Mild: Use less hot sauce and add a little extra butter or a drizzle of honey to soften the heat.
Classic: Stick with a traditional buffalo sauce for a balanced tangy, buttery flavor.
Extra Hot: Add cayenne pepper or use a hotter pepper sauce for more kick.
These variations make it easy to adjust the recipe for different crowds or spice preferences on game day.
Make-Ahead and Reheat Tips
These buffalo chicken tenders are great for entertaining because much of the prep can be done ahead.
You can season the chicken and toss it in buffalo sauce up to 24 hours in advance. Store covered in the refrigerator and bake or air fry just before serving.
To reheat, warm the tenders in the air fryer at 350°F for 4–6 minutes or in the oven at 375°F for 8–10 minutes until heated through. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can soften the texture.
Chicken in Red Wine (Coq au Vin)
Coq au Vin is probably one of my favourite dishes and one of the first I started making regularly when cooking became a thing for me. It's a delicious, heartwarming meal that will impress almost anyone you make it for!
Coq au Vin
Ingredients:
- 8 chicken thighs, with skin and bone
- 3 bacon strips, chopped
- 1 cup chicken stock
- 1 sweet white onion, sliced lengthways
- 1 cup frozen pearl onions
- ½ bottle of pinot noir (or good red wine)
- 3 large carrots, cut into diagonal pieces
- 1 tablespoon salt
- 1 tablespoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 tablespoon garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 2 tablespoons dried thyme
- 2 sprigs fresh thyme
- 1 ½ tablespoons olive oil
- 1 packet (4 ounces) cremini mushrooms
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons flour
Instructions:
- Cook the bacon until browned in a large pot, remove and set aside.
- Season chicken with salt, pepper, onion powder, dried thyme, garlic powder, and lemon. Brown in bacon fat on each side and remove from pot. (Try not to over crowd the pot, do this in batches if necessary).
- Add the minced garlic, cook until fragrant, about 2 minutes. Add the onion, cook until and carrots, cook for an additional 4 minutes.
- Return the bacon and chicken with the juices to the pot, cook for about 2 minutes.
- Add the wine, broth, and fresh thyme to the pot.
- In a 350F oven, cook the chicken in an oven-proof pot or a baking pan covered with foil and bake for about 40 minutes. Remove any herb sticks and return to the stove when done.
- While the chicken is baking, cook the mushrooms in olive oil, 1 tablespoon butter, cumin, and soy sauce with salt and pepper to taste for about 5 minutes, set aside.
- Make a roux to thicken the red wine sauce. Do this by melting 2 tablespoons butter and whisking it with the four, then add this to the pot and stir until incorporated.
- Add in the pearl onions and mushrooms, season with additional salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve with mashed sweet potatoes or a side of your choice. Serve the next day for optimum taste!
Calories
559Fat (grams)
37.25Carbs (grams)
13.54Protein (grams)
33.83