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Harissa Chicken Salad: A Flavor-Packed Healthy Meal

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This Harissa Chicken Salad is a bold, spicy, and healthy meal featuring North African-inspired flavors. Juicy grilled chicken marinated in harissa paste is served over crisp greens with fresh veggies, avocado, and a tangy yogurt or tahini dressing. Perfect for light lunches, meal prep, or flavorful weeknight dinners.

Ingredients

  • For the Chicken Marinade:
  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
  • 2 tbsp harissa paste
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 garlic clove, minced
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • For the Salad:
  • 6 cups mixed greens or romaine lettuce
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 cucumber, sliced
  • 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
  • 1 avocado, sliced
  • 1/3 cup feta cheese (optional)
  • For the Dressing:
  • 1/3 cup Greek yogurt or 2 tbsp tahini
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice
  • 1 tsp harissa paste (optional, for heat)
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1–2 tbsp water (to thin)
  • Salt, to taste

Instructions

  1. In a bowl, mix harissa paste, olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, salt, and pepper. Add chicken and marinate for at least 30 minutes.
  2. Grill or pan-sear chicken over medium-high heat for 5–7 minutes per side, or until cooked through. Let rest, then slice.
  3. Prepare salad base: combine greens, tomatoes, cucumber, onion, and avocado in a large bowl.
  4. Whisk together dressing ingredients until smooth. Adjust thickness with water if needed.
  5. Top salad with sliced chicken, drizzle with dressing, and sprinkle with feta if using.

Notes

  • Adjust spice by reducing harissa or mellowing it with yogurt/tahini.
  • Use rotisserie chicken for a faster version.
  • Serve in pita pockets or over couscous or quinoa for a heartier meal.
  • Store chicken and salad components separately for best texture.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://cookedbymaya.com/harissa-chicken-salad-a-flavor-packed-healthy-meal/