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Keto Dinner

Harissa Chicken

I first made this harissa-inspired chicken when craving bold, smoky flavors without the carbs. The paste is a vibrant blend of paprika, garlic, and chipotle that transforms simple chicken breasts into a keto-friendly masterpiece. Fire up the grill and you’ll have a satisfying dinner on the table in no time.

15 min Prep time 10 min Cook time 25 min Total time 4 Servings 350 Calories
Harissa Chicken

Ingredients

  • tablespoons smoked paprika
  • cloves garlic, minced
  • teaspoon ground cumin
  • teaspoon caraway seeds
  • chipotle pepper in adobo sauce
  • teaspoon adobo sauce
  • skinless, boneless chicken breast halves
  • tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
  • salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Step 1

    Start by combining the smoked paprika, minced garlic, cumin, caraway seeds, chipotle pepper, and adobo sauce in a mortar. Grind everything into a thick paste with the pestle—this releases the essential oils and builds a robust flavor base. Smear the paste generously over the chicken breasts, ensuring they’re coated on all sides. Place the chicken in a bowl, cover, and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight if you’re planning ahead. When ready to cook, preheat your grill to medium heat and lightly oil the grates. Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting any excess drip off. I brush the breasts with olive oil and season them with salt and pepper right before they hit the grill. Cook for about 5 minutes per side, until the outside shows nice char marks and the inside is no longer pink. Let the chicken rest for a couple of minutes before slicing to keep it juicy.

Chef's Tip

For an even deeper smokiness, add a pinch of smoked sea salt just before serving. I’ve found that letting the paste sit on the chicken overnight makes the flavor truly unforgettable.

Storage Tips

Store leftover grilled chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat to keep it from drying out.

Variation Tips

Pair with a cooling cucumber-yogurt sauce (skip the yogurt for strict keto and use sour cream) or serve over a bed of grilled zucchini and bell peppers. You can also swap the chicken for boneless thighs—they stay extra juicy.

Frequently Asked Questions