This sheet-pan harissa chicken is one of those effortless dinners that delivers big flavor with very little work. Spicy, smoky, and perfectly balanced, it’s become a favorite for quick, healthy dinner recipes because everything cooks together on one pan—ideal for lazy dinners that still feel exciting.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- One-pan cleanup for easy weeknights
- Bold flavor with minimal prep
- Great for chicken breast dinner ideas
- Fits perfectly into healthy dinner ideas
- Easy to scale for meal prep or family dinners
Ingredients Overview
This healthy chicken recipe features chicken breasts or thighs coated in harissa paste, olive oil, garlic, and warm spices. Vegetables like bell peppers, onions, or zucchini roast alongside the chicken, soaking up all the flavor.
You can adjust the spice level easily or use leftover chicken for shredded chicken recipes the next day.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat and prep
Preheat the oven and line a sheet pan with parchment for easy cleanup.
2. Season the chicken
Mix harissa paste with olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper. Coat the chicken evenly.
3. Add vegetables
Spread vegetables around the chicken in a single layer for even roasting.
4. Roast
Bake until the chicken is cooked through and slightly caramelized at the edges.
5. Rest and serve
Let the chicken rest briefly, then slice or shred before serving.
Pro Tips for Best Results
- Use thighs for extra juiciness, breasts for leaner meals
- Don’t overcrowd the pan to ensure roasting, not steaming
- Add lemon juice after baking to brighten flavors
- Save leftovers for wraps, bowls, or salads
Variations & Add-Ins
- Mild version: Use less harissa or mix with yogurt
- Spicy: Add chili flakes or extra harissa
- Healthy dinner recipes: Serve with roasted vegetables only
- Rotisserie chicken shortcut: Toss harissa with cooked chicken and roast briefly
- Ground chicken recipes: Use harissa seasoning for meatballs or patties
Storage, Freezing & Reheating Tips
Store leftover sheet-pan harissa chicken in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freeze cooked chicken for up to 2 months.
Reheat in the oven or skillet for best texture.
FAQ – Sheet-Pan Harissa Chicken
Is harissa chicken spicy?
It’s mildly spicy, but easily adjustable.
Can I use chicken breast?
Yes, it works great for lean, healthy dinner ideas.
What vegetables roast best with harissa chicken?
Bell peppers, onions, carrots, and zucchini.
Can this be used for meal prep?
Yes, it’s perfect for quick dinner ideas and leftovers.
Printable Recipe Card
Sheet-Pan Harissa Chicken
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients
- 1½ lb chicken breasts or thighs
- 2 tablespoons harissa paste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups mixed vegetables
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Mix harissa, olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper.
- Coat chicken and place on sheet pan with vegetables.
- Roast 25 minutes until chicken is cooked through.
Conclusion
This sheet-pan harissa chicken is the kind of recipe that makes healthy cooking feel effortless. Serve it with grains, salad, or enjoy it on its own for a bold, satisfying meal. Save this recipe and keep it handy for fast, flavor-packed weeknight dinners.