Harissa Honey Chicken is a flavorful and vibrant dish combining the smoky heat of harissa with the natural sweetness of honey, creating a perfect balance that tantalizes your taste buds. This dish draws inspiration from North African and Mediterranean cuisines, making it an exotic yet accessible recipe. Whether you’re aiming for a quick weeknight meal or a sophisticated dinner party entrée, Harissa Honey Chicken delivers on all fronts.
What is Harissa?
Harissa is a versatile and flavorful chili paste originating from North Africa, particularly Tunisia. It is a staple in Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisines, known for its smoky, spicy, and slightly tangy profile. Harissa is traditionally made by blending roasted red chili peppers, garlic, olive oil, and a mix of spices such as cumin, coriander, and caraway seeds. The result is a thick, aromatic paste with layers of heat and earthy depth.
There are several variations of harissa, ranging from mild to fiery hot, depending on the type of chili peppers used. Some versions incorporate ingredients like lemon juice, vinegar, or even rose petals to add unique dimensions of flavor.
Harissa is highly versatile and can be used in marinades, soups, stews, sauces, and dips. In recipes like Harissa Honey Chicken, it provides the perfect smoky heat that complements the sweetness of honey, creating a harmonious balance of flavors. Whether you’re using it in its paste form or a powdered version, harissa is a must-have ingredient for adding bold, spicy character to your dishes.
How to Make Harissa Honey Chicken
Ingredients
To make this Easy Honey Harissa Chicken Recipe, gather the following ingredients:
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or breasts for a leaner option)
- 2 tablespoons harissa paste
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- Juice of 1 lemon
Optional Garnishes:
- Fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped
- Lemon wedges
- Sesame seeds
Suggested Pairings (for Harissa Chicken Bowls CAVA Copycat):
- Cooked quinoa or couscous
- Fresh greens (arugula or spinach)
- Corn
- Pickled red onions
- Cucumber slices
- Tzatziki sauce
Instructions to Make Harissa Honey Chicken
Prepare the Marinade
- In a small bowl, whisk together harissa paste, honey, olive oil, smoked paprika, cumin, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and lemon juice.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary, balancing the heat and sweetness.
Marinate the Chicken
- Place the chicken thighs in a shallow dish or resealable bag. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring it is well-coated.
- Marinate for at least 30 minutes, preferably overnight, in the refrigerator.
Cook the Chicken
- Grill Method (CAVA Grilled Chicken Recipe): Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Cook the chicken for 5-7 minutes per side until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Stovetop Method: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add a drizzle of olive oil and sear the chicken for 5-6 minutes per side.
- Oven Method: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the marinated chicken on a lined baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes.
Glaze (Optional):
- For extra flavor, brush the chicken with additional honey during the last 2 minutes of cooking.
Prepare the Suggested Pairings
- While the chicken is cooking, prepare the base and toppings:
- Cook quinoa or couscous according to package instructions.
- Wash and prepare fresh greens such as arugula or spinach.
- Slice cucumbers and pickled red onions.
- Heat up or prepare corn (grilled, canned, or frozen).
- Prepare tzatziki sauce if not using store-bought.
Assemble the Harissa Chicken Bowls (CAVA Copycat!)
- In a serving bowl, start with a base of cooked quinoa or couscous.
- Add a handful of fresh greens like arugula or spinach.
- Top with the cooked Harissa Honey Chicken, sliced cucumber, corn, and pickled red onions.
- Drizzle tzatziki sauce over the top to tie everything together.
Optional Garnishes
- Sprinkle the assembled bowls with sesame seeds, fresh cilantro, or parsley. Add a wedge of lemon on the side for extra freshness.
Serve and Enjoy
- Serve the assembled bowls immediately. The combination of smoky-spicy chicken, refreshing greens, and creamy tzatziki sauce creates a deliciously balanced dish perfect for any occasion.
Tips to Make Perfect Harissa Honey Chicken
- Adjust the Heat Level: Use mild harissa paste if you prefer less spice, or add a pinch of cayenne for extra heat.
- Balance the Flavors: Always taste your marinade to ensure a balance of sweetness and heat. Add more honey if the harissa is too spicy.
- Marination is Key: The longer you marinate the chicken, the deeper the flavors will penetrate.
- Use a Meat Thermometer: To avoid undercooking or overcooking, ensure the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) internally.
- Experiment with Cuts: While thighs are flavorful, you can use breasts or even drumsticks.
What to Serve with Harissa Honey Chicken
Pair your Harissa Honey Chicken with complementary sides to create a complete meal:
- Grain Base: Quinoa, couscous, or rice.
- Vegetables: Roasted vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or carrots.
- Sauces:Tzatziki or a yogurt-based sauce to cool the spice.
- Salads: Try a refreshing side like coleslaw or a Mediterranean chopped salad. For a twist, check out our Coleslaw Recipe for Pulled Pork!
Variations of Harissa Honey Chicken
- Cava Harissa Chicken Bowl Recipe Twist: Recreate the famous CAVA flavors by adding sumac and fresh dill to your marinade.
- Baked Version: For a healthier approach, bake the chicken with a drizzle of olive oil and serve over steamed rice.
- Honey Harissa Glazed Wings: Turn this into a party appetizer by using chicken wings instead of thighs.
- Vegetarian Alternative: Use tofu or cauliflower in place of chicken, marinating and cooking them in the same way.
FAQs While Making Harissa Honey Chicken
What is Harissa Paste?
Harissa paste is a North African condiment made from chili peppers, garlic, oil, and spices. It has a smoky, slightly spicy flavor.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes! Marinate the chicken up to 24 hours in advance for optimal flavor.
What if I Can’t Find Harissa Paste?
Substitute with chili garlic sauce or Sriracha, though the flavor profile will differ.
How to Prevent the Chicken from Drying Out?
Avoid overcooking and use a meat thermometer to ensure juiciness.
Is Harissa Honey Chicken Spicy?
It has a mild to moderate spice level, adjustable based on the harissa paste used.
Substitutes
- For Harissa Paste: Use sambaloelek, gochujang, or a mix of red chili flakes and olive oil.
- For Honey: Maple syrup or agave nectar are great alternatives.
- For Chicken: Swap with turkey, fish, or plant-based protein like seitan.
- For Olive Oil: Avocado oil or melted butter can be used.
Nutrition of Harissa Honey Chicken
Per serving (based on 4 servings):
- Calories: 320
- Protein: 28g
- Fat: 15g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 450mg
This Harissa Honey Chicken Recipe is a delightful fusion of spicy and sweet, perfect for both casual dinners and special occasions. With its versatility and rich flavor profile, it’s destined to become a family favorite. Don’t forget to pair it with dishes like Nutella Puff Pastry for dessert or serve alongside a vibrant Fried Rice on Blackstone for a unique fusion feast!
