One-Pan Harissa Chicken with Chickpeas

Growing up, dinner was the heartbeat of our home—a time when stories were shared, laughter echoed, and plates were piled high with love. My mom’s kitchen always smelled of spices, and her one-pan meals were legendary for bringing us together, no matter how busy life got. Inspired by 2025’s trending flavors in America, this Halal One-Pan Harissa Chicken with Chickpeas is a nod to those cozy evenings, infused with the bold, smoky heat of North African harissa and the comforting warmth of a family meal. This halal-compliant dish is quick, kid-friendly, and packed with vibrant flavors that will have your little ones asking for more and your heart glowing with pride. Let’s create a dinner that’s as joyful to make as it is to share!

Ingredients
For the Chicken and Chickpeas

4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (about 1.5 lbs/680g, halal-certified)
1 can (15 oz/425g) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
2 large carrots (about 200g), sliced into ½-inch rounds
1 medium red onion (about 150g), sliced into wedges
2 tbsp (30ml) olive oil
1 tbsp (15g) harissa paste (mild or spicy, adjust for kids)
1 tsp (4g) ground cumin
1 tsp (4g) smoked paprika
½ tsp (2g) garlic powder
½ tsp (2g) salt
¼ tsp (1g) black pepper
½ cup (120ml) low-sodium chicken broth (halal-certified)
For Garnish
2 tbsp (8g) fresh parsley, chopped
1 lemon, cut into wedges
Optional: ¼ cup (30g) pomegranate seeds for a pop of color
Yield: 4 servings
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes

Kitchen Tools Needed

Large oven-safe skillet or Dutch oven
Tongs
Measuring spoons and cups
Cutting board and knife
Mixing bowl
Wooden spoon or spatula
Oven mitts

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat and Prep
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels—this helps them get crispy! In a small bowl, mix olive oil, harissa paste, cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper to form a marinade.
Kid-Friendly Task: Let kids mix the spices with a spoon—it’s safe and fun!
Marinate the Chicken
Rub half the marinade over the chicken thighs, coating them evenly. Set aside the remaining marinade for the veggies and chickpeas.
Assemble the Pan
In your oven-safe skillet, toss the chickpeas, carrots, and red onion with the remaining marinade. Spread them out evenly, then nestle the chicken thighs on top, skin-side up. Pour the chicken broth around the veggies to keep everything juicy.
Pro Tip: Arrange the veggies in a single layer for even cooking and caramelization.
Bake to Perfection
Place the skillet in the oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the skin is golden and crispy. The veggies should be tender and slightly caramelized.
Note: If the chicken browns too quickly, cover loosely with foil.
Garnish and Serve
Remove from the oven and let rest for 5 minutes. Sprinkle with fresh parsley and pomegranate seeds (if using) for a burst of color. Serve with lemon wedges for squeezing over the top—kids love the zesty kick! Pair with fluffy couscous, rice, or flatbread for a complete meal.
Kid-Friendly Task: Kids can sprinkle the parsley or arrange lemon wedges on the platter.

Tips and Variations

Adjust the Heat: For younger kids, use mild harissa or reduce to ½ tbsp. Add a pinch of chili flakes for adults who like spice.
Veggie Swap: Try sweet potatoes or zucchini instead of carrots for variety.
Make it Creamier: Stir in ¼ cup (60ml) coconut milk to the broth for a richer sauce.
Meal Prep: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes.
Fun Presentation: Serve in colorful bowls to make it exciting for kids.
Halal Note: Ensure chicken and broth are halal-certified. Check harissa paste for alcohol-free ingredients.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Calories: 420 kcal
Fat: 22g (6g saturated)
Carbohydrates: 24g (6g sugars)
Protein: 32g
Sodium: 480mg
Fiber: 7g
Note: Nutritional values are approximate and may vary based on specific brands used.

Visual Inspiration
Below are two beautifully styled images to bring this Harissa Chicken with Chickpeas to life on your blog. (Since I can’t generate images directly, I’ll describe them vividly for your photographer or designer.)
Image 1: Whole Dish
A top-down view of the skillet straight from the oven, showcasing crispy golden chicken thighs nestled among vibrant carrots, chickpeas, and red onions. The dish is garnished with bright parsley and pomegranate seeds, with lemon wedges tucked in for a pop of yellow. The skillet sits on a rustic wooden table with a colorful woven runner, evoking warmth and family togetherness. Soft evening light highlights the glossy sauce.
Image 2: Plated Serving
A close-up of a single serving on a kid-friendly blue plate, with a chicken thigh sliced to reveal juicy meat, surrounded by chickpeas and carrots. A drizzle of sauce and a sprinkle of parsley add flair. In the background, a blurred family table with couscous and flatbread sets the scene, with a child’s hand holding a lemon wedge, ready to squeeze. The warm lighting makes it inviting.

Final Thoughts
This One-Pan Harissa Chicken with Chickpeas is a 2025 dinner trend for a reason: it’s a flavor-packed, family-friendly meal that brings global flair to your table with minimal effort. Perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions, it’s a dish that celebrates love, togetherness, and the joy of good food. I can’t wait for you to share this with your family and see their happy faces. Snap a pic and tag us at HomemadeVibes.com or on social media—I’d love to hear how it turned out!
Happy cooking.