Spicy-Sweet Harissa Orange Chicken Thighs Recipe in One Pan

Give your dinner routine a flavorful upgrade with these Harissa Orange Chicken Thighs. This recipe combines the smoky heat of North African harissa paste with the bright, citrusy zing of fresh orange juice for a bold, irresistible glaze.

The chicken thighs come out tender and juicy, with caramelized edges and a sauce that’s perfect for spooning over rice, couscous, or roasted veggies.

Best of all, it’s made in one pan and requires minimal prep—ideal for busy weeknights or effortless entertaining.

Why You’ll Love This Harissa Orange Chicken Recipe

This recipe brings together the smoky heat of harissa paste with the natural sweetness of fresh oranges, creating a complex flavor profile that’s both sophisticated and approachable.

The chicken thighs stay incredibly moist while developing a beautiful caramelized exterior, making this dish perfect for both casual family dinners and entertaining guests.

Recipe Information

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Servings: 4 people
• Difficulty: Easy
• Cuisine: Mediterranean/North African

Equipment Needed

• Large oven-safe skillet or cast iron pan
• Small mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Tongs
• Meat thermometer
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Zester or microplane grater

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Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• 8 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (about 3 lbs)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika

For the Harissa Orange Glaze:

• 3 tablespoons harissa paste
• 1/4 cup fresh orange juice
• 2 tablespoons orange zest
• 3 tablespoons honey
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin

For Garnish:

• 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1 orange, sliced into rounds
• 1/4 cup toasted sesame seeds (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels and season both sides with salt, pepper, and paprika. Let them come to room temperature for about 10 minutes.

Step 2: Make the Harissa Orange Glaze

In a small bowl, whisk together harissa paste, orange juice, orange zest, honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, olive oil, rice vinegar, and cumin until well combined. Set aside.

Step 3: Sear the Chicken

Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Place chicken thighs skin-side down and cook for 5-6 minutes until the skin is golden brown and crispy. Flip and cook for another 3-4 minutes.

Step 4: Add the Glaze

Pour the harissa orange glaze over the chicken thighs, making sure to coat each piece evenly. Add orange slices around the pan for extra flavor and visual appeal.

Step 5: Bake

Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Baste the chicken with the pan juices halfway through cooking.

Step 6: Rest and Serve

Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh cilantro and toasted sesame seeds if desired. Serve hot with the pan juices spooned over the top.

Nutrition Information (Per Serving)

Tips for Perfect Harissa Orange Chicken

Choose Quality Harissa: Look for a good-quality harissa paste in the international aisle or make your own for the best flavor. The heat level can vary between brands, so adjust accordingly.

Don’t Skip the Searing: Creating a golden-brown crust on the chicken thighs before baking ensures maximum flavor and prevents the meat from drying out.

Fresh Orange Juice: Always use fresh orange juice rather than bottled for the brightest, most vibrant flavor in your glaze.

Temperature Matters: Use a meat thermometer to ensure your chicken reaches the safe internal temperature of 165°F without overcooking.

Serving Suggestions

This harissa orange chicken pairs beautifully with fluffy basmati rice, couscous, or quinoa to soak up the delicious sauce.

For vegetables, try roasted Brussels sprouts, steamed broccoli, or a fresh Mediterranean salad with cucumber and tomatoes.

Storage and Reheating

Store leftover chicken in the refrigerator for up to 3 days in an airtight container. Reheat in a 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. The flavors actually improve after a day, making this perfect for meal prep.

Variations and Substitutions

Spice Level: Adjust the harissa paste quantity to your heat preference. Start with 2 tablespoons for milder palates or increase to 4 tablespoons for more heat.

Citrus Options: Try substituting blood oranges or adding a splash of lemon juice for different citrus notes.

Protein Swap: This glaze works equally well with chicken breasts, drumsticks, or even pork chops.

Honey Alternative: Maple syrup or agave nectar can replace honey for different sweetness profiles.

Why This Recipe Works

The combination of harissa and orange creates a perfect balance of heat and sweetness. The bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs provide rich flavor and stay incredibly juicy during cooking. The high-heat searing followed by oven finishing ensures both crispy skin and tender meat, while the glaze caramelizes beautifully in the oven.

This harissa orange chicken thighs recipe delivers restaurant-quality flavors with simple home cooking techniques. The bold North African spices combined with bright citrus create an unforgettable meal that’s sure to become a new favorite in your dinner rotation.