Christmas Harissa Chicken Traybake Recipe: A Flavorful and Easy Holiday Dish
Ingredients for Christmas Harissa Chicken Traybake
This festive and easy-to-make recipe requires the following ingredients:
- 4 chicken legs
- 4 tbsp harissa paste (rose harissa is ideal)
- 1 garlic bulb (broken into cloves)
- 1 lemon (cut into wedges)
- 400g cherry tomatoes on the vine
- 350g new potatoes (halved if large)
- 50g Kalamata olives (chopped)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Green salad (optional, to serve)
Nutritional Information
This recipe offers a balanced combination of nutrients:
- Chicken legs: Protein and essential vitamins
- Potatoes: Fiber and vitamin C
- Olives: Healthy fats for heart health
- Tomatoes: Antioxidants for skin health
- Harissa paste: Spices with anti-inflammatory properties
Step-by-Step Method to Prepare Christmas Harissa Chicken Traybake
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken and Vegetables
Preheat your oven to 190°C (170°C fan/gas 5). Score deep lines in the chicken legs and rub them with harissa paste. Season well and place them in a roasting tin. Add garlic cloves, squeeze lemon wedges over the chicken, and place the wedges in the tin with the cherry tomatoes, new potatoes, and Kalamata olives. Drizzle with olive oil and toss briefly to mix.
Step 2: Roast and Serve
Roast the chicken and vegetables in the oven for 45 minutes to 1 hour, until the chicken is golden and cooked through. Serve with a green salad, if desired.
Why This Recipe Is Perfect for Christmas
This Harissa Chicken Traybake is perfect for the holidays. It combines vibrant flavors and makes a satisfying one-pan meal that’s easy to prepare. The harissa paste infuses the chicken with rich, spicy flavors while the roasted vegetables and olives create a festive, colorful side. The simplicity of the recipe allows you to spend more time with loved ones during the busy holiday season.
Tips for Customizing This Recipe
- Adjust the spice: Use less harissa paste for a milder flavor or choose a mild harissa variety.
- Add extra veggies: Include bell peppers, zucchini, or carrots for added color and flavor.
- Serve with rice: For a heartier meal, serve with rice or couscous.