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Harissa Honey Chicken is bold, smoky, and just sweet enough — a quick, healthy recipe that’s become a favorite in my kitchen.
I’m Amanda, founder of HealthyMealRecipe. I learned to cook beside my grandmother, then returned to the kitchen years later when life got hard. Cooking grounded me, so I started sharing simple, flavorful chicken dishes that work for busy families.
This one’s special.
Introduction to Harissa Honey Chicken
What Is Harissa Honey Chicken?
This dish brings together two power flavors — smoky harissa paste and sweet golden honey — to create a mouthwatering glaze over tender, juicy chicken. The result? A sweet and spicy combo that’s rich, balanced, and perfect for quick weeknight dinners or casual get-togethers.
It’s one of those recipes that feels a little elevated but stays incredibly easy. Whether roasted, grilled, or pan-seared, this is a meal you’ll come back to.
Why the Sweet and Spicy Combo Works
The secret to the dish’s flavor is balance. Harissa delivers warmth and depth with its mix of chilies, garlic, and spices. Honey steps in to mellow the heat and help the sauce cling to every bite.
| Flavor Element | Ingredient |
|---|---|
| Heat & depth | Harissa |
| Sweet finish | Honey |
| Tender texture | Chicken |
Adjust the heat easily by choosing a mild or hot harissa. Either way, the natural sweetness ties it all together and creates a sticky, caramelized surface.
The Origin and Flavor Profile of Harissa
What Is Harissa?
Harissa is a North African chili paste made from dried red chilies, garlic, olive oil, and spices like cumin and caraway. It’s bold, smoky, and adds deep flavor without being overpowering. Often used in Moroccan and Tunisian cooking, it’s now a global favorite — and the star of dishes like Harissa Honey Chicken.
You can find it jarred in most grocery stores, or make it fresh for more control over heat and flavor.
Why Harissa Works So Well with Chicken
Chicken is mild, which makes it perfect for bold flavors like harissa. The paste sticks well, infusing each piece with warmth and depth. Combined with honey, it becomes a rich, spicy-sweet glaze that turns simple chicken into something exciting.
Whether you’re roasting, grilling, or pan-frying, harissa gives the dish its signature kick.
Ingredients You Need for Harissa Honey Chicken
Key Components: Spices, Honey, and Chicken Cuts
Making Harissa Honey Chicken is simple, but quality ingredients make all the difference. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Chicken – Boneless thighs work best for flavor and tenderness, but breasts or drumsticks also work
- Harissa Paste – Choose mild or hot depending on your spice preference
- Honey – Use real, raw honey for the best sweetness and glaze
- Olive Oil – Helps blend the marinade and adds richness
- Garlic – Freshly minced adds bite and depth
- Lemon Juice or Vinegar – A splash adds brightness
- Salt + Pepper – Basic seasoning that sharpens the overall taste
This combination gives you a bold marinade that balances sweet, spicy, and tangy — all in one.
Choosing the Right Harissa Paste (Store-Bought vs Homemade)
You’ll find harissa in most major grocery stores near the international foods aisle. Jarred harissa is convenient, but spice levels vary by brand. Taste before using!
If you want full control, try making your own with dried chilies, roasted red peppers, garlic, olive oil, and spices. Homemade versions are great if you’re avoiding added sugars or preservatives.
| Type | Pros |
|---|---|
| Store-bought | Convenient, consistent, quick to use |
| Homemade | Custom spice level, fresher flavor |
How to Make Harissa Honey Chicken at Home
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Making Harissa Honey Chicken is as easy as mix, marinate, and cook. Here’s how to do it in under 30 minutes:
1. Mix the Marinade:
In a bowl, whisk together:
- 2–3 tablespoons harissa paste
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- Juice of half a lemon
- Salt and pepper to taste
2. Add the Chicken:
Use 1–1.5 pounds of boneless skinless chicken thighs or breasts. Coat well in the marinade. Let it sit for at least 20 minutes — longer if you can.
3. Cook Your Way:
Choose one of these easy methods:
| Method | Instructions |
|---|---|
| Pan-Sear | Cook chicken over medium heat for 5–6 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. |
| Bake | Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Bake chicken in a foil-lined dish for 20–25 minutes. |
| Grill | Grill on medium-high heat, 5–6 minutes per side. |
Optional: Spoon extra marinade over the chicken while cooking for more flavor and caramelization.
Oven-Baked vs Pan-Seared vs Air-Fried Methods
Each method gives a slightly different finish:
- Oven-baked: Juicy inside, caramelized edges
- Pan-seared: Fast and crisp, great for smaller batches
- Air-fried: Lighter, great for meal prep bowls
No matter the method, the harissa honey glaze transforms the chicken into something deeply flavorful and sticky-sweet with just the right kick.
Pairing and Serving Ideas for Harissa Honey Chicken
Best Sides and Salads to Serve With It
Harissa Honey Chicken is bold, so it pairs well with sides that balance or complement the flavor. Here are some easy, healthy ideas:
| Side Dish | Why It Works |
|---|---|
| Couscous or Quinoa | Soaks up the sauce and adds a nutty texture |
| Lemon Rice or Jasmine Rice | Softens the heat, adds citrus brightness |
| Grilled Vegetables | Smoky and light — balances richness |
| Roasted Sweet Potatoes | Sweetness complements the spicy glaze |
| Simple Green Salad | Refreshing contrast, keeps the meal balanced |
Toss in fresh herbs like mint, parsley, or cilantro to tie everything together.
Great Drinks and Sauces That Complement the Flavor
To round out the meal, serve with:
- Mint iced tea or cucumber water for cooling
- Plain Greek yogurt or tzatziki as a dipping sauce
- Lemon tahini dressing drizzled over bowls or salads
- Flatbread or pita for scooping and soaking up extra sauce
If you’re turning this into a build-your-own bowl, try a base of greens or grains with toppings like cucumbers, olives, or pickled onions for crunch and brightness.
Variations of Harissa Honey Chicken Recipes
Cava-Inspired Bowl at Home
Love the Cava Harissa Honey Chicken bowl? You can make it at home with a few simple ingredients.
Build your own with:
- A base: rice, greens, or couscous
- Chicken: sliced harissa honey-style
- Toppings: pickled onions, cucumber, olives
- Sauce: tzatziki or garlic dressing
- Crunch: crispy chickpeas or pita chips
It’s fresh, flavorful, and just as good as takeout — maybe better.
More Easy Ways to Serve It
Harissa Honey Chicken is flexible. Try it:
- In wraps with yogurt and greens
- On skewers, grilled with lemon
- Over salads or meal-prep bowls
- With flatbread and hummus for a quick plate
Switch it up based on what you have on hand — the flavor always delivers.
Is Harissa Honey Chicken Spicy or Sweet?
Harissa Honey Chicken hits both notes — it’s sweet and spicy. The harissa brings the heat, and honey smooths it out.
To adjust the spice:
- Use mild harissa for a softer kick
- Add more honey for balance
- Spoon on yogurt to cool it down
Want it hotter? Just increase the harissa or add chili flakes.
The beauty of this dish is the control — it’s bold, but you decide how fiery it gets.
Health Benefits and Nutrition Facts
Calories, Protein, and Nutritional Breakdown
Harissa Honey Chicken isn’t just flavorful — it’s also a balanced option for those watching what they eat.
A standard serving (about 1 cup cooked) contains roughly:
- 320–370 calories
- 30g protein
- 12–15g fat
- 10–12g carbs (mostly from the honey)
It’s naturally gluten-free, and if you use lean chicken breast, you can keep the fat even lower. The harissa adds bold flavor without needing heavy sauces or added sugar.
Healthy Cooking Tips Without Losing Flavor
Want to keep this dish extra light? Try:
- Baking instead of pan-frying
- Using skinless chicken breasts
- Reducing honey slightly and using lemon juice or balsamic for balance
- Serving it with greens or roasted veggies instead of rice
Harissa Honey Chicken fits right into clean eating, meal prep, or even low-carb plans — all while staying big on taste.
Storage, Leftovers & Meal Prep Tips
How to Store and Reheat
Leftover Harissa Honey Chicken keeps well. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. To reheat, warm it gently in a pan or microwave with a splash of water so it stays moist.
Easy Meal Prep Ideas
Freeze extras for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat as needed.
Use leftovers in:
- Grain bowls
- Pita wraps
- Salads
- Flatbread pizzas
It’s great for lunches or fast dinners later in the week.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does harissa go with honey?
Yes — harissa and honey are a perfect match. Harissa brings heat and depth, while honey adds sweetness that balances the spice. Together, they create a rich, sticky glaze that works beautifully on chicken.
Is harissa honey chicken spicy?
It can be! The heat level depends on the type of harissa you use. Some blends are mild and smoky, while others are much hotter. You can easily adjust the spice by adding more honey or choosing a milder harissa paste.
What does harissa chicken taste like?
Harissa chicken has a bold, savory flavor with a smoky kick and a hint of garlic and spice. When paired with honey, it becomes sweet and slightly tangy — rich, flavorful, and balanced in every bite.
What is in Cava harissa honey chicken?
Cava’s version usually features grilled chicken marinated in harissa and honey, served in a bowl with greens, grains, pickled onions, and yogurt-based sauces. It’s spicy, sweet, and layered with bold Mediterranean flavors — easy to recreate at home.
Conclusion: Make Harissa Honey Chicken Your Go-To Flavor Fix
If you’re looking for a meal that’s bold, easy, and full of flavor, Harissa Honey Chicken delivers every time. It’s quick to make, endlessly versatile, and perfect for busy weeknights or crowd-pleasing dinners.
Whether you keep it classic or turn it into bowls, wraps, or meal-prep lunches, this dish brings the perfect blend of spice and sweetness — no fancy ingredients needed.
Thanks for visiting HealthyMealRecipe — where real-life food meets feel-good flavor. Give this dish a try and make it part of your regular rotation.
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Harissa Honey Chicken – The Best Sweet Spicy Chicken Recipe
Bold, smoky, sweet — Harissa Honey Chicken is a quick, flavorful recipe perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings.
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 1–1.5 pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs or breasts
- 2–3 tablespoons harissa paste (mild or hot)
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Juice of half a lemon
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a bowl, whisk together harissa paste, honey, olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
- Coat the chicken with the marinade and let it sit for at least 20 minutes.
- Choose your cooking method:
- Pan-Sear: Cook over medium heat for 5–6 minutes per side until golden and cooked through.
- Bake: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Bake in a foil-lined dish for 20–25 minutes.
- Grill: Grill on medium-high heat, 5–6 minutes per side.
- Optional: Spoon extra marinade over the chicken while cooking for added flavor and caramelization.
Notes
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat gently in a pan or microwave with a splash of water. Freeze for up to 2 months for easy meal prep.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grill, Oven, or Pan
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup cooked
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 11g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fat: 13g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 90mg