First Step: Preheat Oven and Prepare Chicken
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) for chicken breasts or 450°F (225°C) if you prefer thighs. Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels to ensure the harissa rub sticks well and promotes browning.

Second Step: Make Harissa Spice Rub
In a bowl, mix together the harissa paste, olive oil, ground cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. This rub combines smoky, spicy, and aromatic notes for maximum flavor.

Third Step: Rub the Chicken Thoroughly
Coat each chicken breast evenly with several tablespoons of the harissa spice rub, ensuring all surfaces are covered. This step is key to infusing the chicken with bold flavor.

Fourth Step: Arrange Chicken and Optional Ingredients
Place the rubbed chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or in a lightly oiled ovenproof dish. If using, scatter sliced red onion or shallots around the chicken. For a richer meal, add drained chickpeas halfway through baking to warm up and absorb the flavors.

Fifth Step: Bake to Perfection
Bake the chicken breasts for 25 to 30 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). If using chicken thighs, bake for about 30 to 40 minutes, turning them halfway through. Add chickpeas after 20 minutes and continue baking until everything is cooked through.

Final Step: Rest, Garnish, and Serve
Remove the chicken from the oven and baste with extra harissa sauce if desired. Let it rest for 5 minutes to lock in juices, then slice and serve alongside your favorite sides like couscous or roasted veggies. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves for a burst of color and freshness.