If you love bold flavors, this Cava Honey Harissa Chicken recipe is perfect for you! It’s a delicious blend of spicy harissa, sweet honey, and juicy chicken, creating an irresistible dish that’s easy to make at home. Whether you’re a fan of Mediterranean food or just looking for something new, this recipe is a must-try!
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple ingredients – Easily available at any store
- Quick to prepare – Perfect for busy days
- Rich in flavor – A perfect balance of spicy, sweet, and savory
- Great for meal prep – Enjoy it throughout the week
Ingredients
For this mouthwatering honey harissa chicken, you’ll need:
- 2 lbs (900g) chicken thighs or breasts
- 3 tbsp harissa paste (adjust for spice level)
- 2 tbsp honey
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp cumin
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Marinade
In a bowl, whisk together harissa paste, honey, olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, paprika, salt, pepper, and cumin. This flavorful mix will coat the chicken beautifully.
2. Marinate the Chicken
Place the chicken in a bowl or ziplock bag and pour the marinade over it. Massage the chicken well to coat evenly. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes, but for best results, leave it for 2–4 hours in the fridge.
3. Cook the Chicken
- Oven Method: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the chicken on a lined baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and fully cooked.
- Pan-Fry Method: Heat a pan over medium heat. Add a little oil and cook the chicken for 6-7 minutes per side until beautifully caramelized.
- Grill Method: Grill the chicken over medium heat for 5-6 minutes per side.
4. Serve and Enjoy
Once cooked, let the chicken rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with rice, pita bread, or a fresh salad.
Serving Suggestions
- Cava-style bowl: Serve with hummus, cucumber salad, and rice
- Wrap it up: Stuff into a warm pita with tzatziki sauce
- Pair with grains: Enjoy with quinoa, couscous, or bulgur
Tips for the Best Honey Harissa Chicken
- Adjust the spice level – Add more honey if you prefer a milder taste.
- Use skin-on, bone-in thighs for extra juiciness.
- Double the marinade and save some for drizzling over cooked chicken.
FAQs
1. What is harissa?
Harissa is a spicy North African chili paste made with roasted peppers, garlic, and spices. It adds heat and depth of flavor.
2. Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes! Chicken breasts work well but may cook a bit faster. Keep an eye on them to prevent dryness.
3. Is this recipe keto-friendly?
Yes, just reduce or skip the honey for a lower-carb version.
4. How long can I store leftovers?
Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in a pan or microwave.
5. What can I substitute for harissa paste?
If you don’t have harissa, mix red chili flakes, smoked paprika, and a bit of tomato paste as a quick substitute.
Final Thoughts
This Cava Honey Harissa Chicken is a game-changer! It’s sweet, spicy, and packed with flavor, making it a perfect meal for any occasion. Try it today and enjoy restaurant-quality taste at home!
Let me know in the comments how you liked this recipe! 🍗🔥
