What is Harissa? A Spicy Introduction
Hi there! If you’re new to the world of bold flavors, let’s talk about harissa – it’s a key ingredient in this recipe, and it’s far more versatile than you might think. Essentially, harissa is a fiery chili paste, a staple in the cuisines of the Middle East and North Africa. It’s a truly remarkable ingredient!
Traditionally, harissa is made with roasted red peppers (often the core ingredient, giving it that vibrant color and deep, smoky flavor), dried chilies, garlic, spices like cumin, coriander, and caraway seeds, and lemon juice. The exact proportions vary greatly depending on the region and the maker’s personal preference – some harissas are intensely spicy, while others are more subtly flavorful. The recipe we’re using leans towards a medium heat level, but you can always adjust to your liking.
One of the beautiful things about harissa is that it’s not just heat; it’s a complex blend of flavors. It has a slightly tangy, earthy taste with fragrant spices and a hint of citrus. You can find many different types of harissa – some are naturally smoked, some are made with smoked paprika, and some incorporate other ingredients like sumac or pomegranate molasses. The variety is fantastic! Experimenting with different harissas is a great way to develop your palate.
It’s commonly found in Middle Eastern grocery stores, or you can buy it at larger supermarkets like Whole Foods or Trader Joe’s. You’ll usually find it in a tube or jar – it’s typically a thick, red paste. Don’t be intimidated by the vibrant color and strong aroma! It adds a serious punch of flavor to almost anything you add it to, from tagines and couscous to grilled meats and roasted vegetables.
Harissa is incredibly versatile, and you can really start to see how it works as a flavour base for a huge range of dishes. It’s no wonder it’s become increasingly popular! Using harissa in your cooking can elevate the flavour of a whole dish. So, now you know a little more about this wonderful spice. Ready to jump into making this recipe? Here’s a link to our complete guide to harissa
The Magic of Local Hive Honey
Hi there! Let’s talk about honey – but not just any honey. When it comes to creating this Harissa Honey Chicken, the type of honey truly elevates the dish, adding a layer of complexity and flavor that’s hard to replicate. That’s where Local Hive Honey comes in.
Local Hive Honey is 100% raw and unfiltered, and it’s the way honey should be enjoyed—bursting with the unique flavors of its region. Each one of Local Hive’s varietals – like the Cali citrus honey with notes of citrus fruits, or the Southeast honey with a slightly spicy flavor – has a distinctive character derived from the microclimates where it’s produced. This isn’t just about sweetness; it’s about terroir – the environmental factors that influence the taste of the honey. The Washington varietal, which we use in this recipe, gets its rich, bolder, huskier flavor from the region’s many microclimates. The result is a honey with a depth of flavor that complements the spicy harissa perfectly, balancing the heat with subtle sweetness.
Local Hive’s dedication to quality starts with their beekeepers, who carefully manage their hives to produce honey with exceptional flavor. They focus on small-batch honey production, ensuring the highest quality. Moreover, honey is far more than a simple sweetener. It’s a complex carbohydrate source, rich in enzymes, antioxidants, and pollen, which are beneficial for your health. It also boasts unique regional flavors that can be attributed to the environment in which the bees forage.
Using Local Hive Honey is a deliberate choice – it’s a premium ingredient that adds a sophisticated dimension to this recipe. You’ll notice a difference in the final flavor, a harmony of spice and sweetness that’s simply unforgettable. High-quality honey can truly transform a dish, and with Local Hive, you’re getting the best. Don’t settle for ordinary honey. Explore their website to discover the incredible range of Local Hive Honey varietals available and find one that perfectly suits your palate. Honey benefits are also worth exploring! Raw honey is a powerful food that’s been enjoyed for thousands of years.
Sweet + Spicy… Best of Both Worlds
If you’re like many of my readers, someone who shies away from overly spicy food, don’t rule out this dish just yet. The spice of the harissa is significantly subdued thanks to the generous addition of honey. As I’ve told you before, there’s a considerable difference between good honey and bad honey – one adds a subtle floral sweetness, while the other can be overly processed or have a strange, metallic aftertaste. Honey quality matters!
This recipe relies on, and often recommends, Local Hive Honey™ for a reason. Local Hive Honey is 100% raw and unfiltered, the way honey should be enjoyed – untouched by heat treatments that diminish its delicate flavors and nutrients. Each one of Local Hive’s varietals – from the bright, citrusy Cali varietal with notes of lemon and grapefruit, to the richer, slightly spicy Southeast varietal showcasing the complex flavors of the region’s wildflowers – delivers on quality. Explore Local Hive Honey’s varietals to discover your favorite!
Specifically, the Washington varietal, which we’re using in this recipe, gets its character from the region’s microclimates – the variation in temperature and rainfall across short distances. This results in a honey with a remarkably richer, bolder, and more viscous texture. The flavor profile is truly exceptional, showcasing a complex blend of floral, fruity, and subtle spice notes. It’s a honey perfectly suited to amplifying the harissa’s inherent heat while simultaneously complementing its sweet facets. Learn more about the Washington Honey!
When you combine the intense, earthy heat of the harissa with the soothing, caramelized sweetness of honey, you create a surprisingly balanced and incredibly addictive flavor combination. It’s a testament to how a small ingredient, like honey, can transform a dish, mellowing the stronger flavors and adding a layer of complexity. You’ll find that the spice is tempered, allowing you to fully appreciate the honey’s nuanced character. Discover how honey enhances savory dishes.
What You’ll Need for Harissa Honey Chicken Thighs
Let’s gather everything you’ll need to create this deliciously complex Harissa Honey Chicken. This recipe focuses on quality ingredients, and while many items are pantry staples, a few key components really elevate the flavor. Don’t skimp on the honey; as I’ve said before, good honey makes all the difference! You’ll be amazed at how readily available many of these ingredients are, especially if you shop at stores like Whole Foods or Trader Joe’s. Quality Chicken Thighs are the heart of this dish, and choosing boneless, skinless thighs dramatically reduces prep time and cooks faster. Boneless Skinless Chicken Thighs are a fantastic choice, especially on busy weeknights. If you prefer bone-in thighs, that’s perfectly fine – just adjust the cooking time; bone-in versions typically require upwards of 45-55 minutes at 400°F. You can easily find bone-in options at most grocery stores. Bone In Chicken Thighs are a great option for those who appreciate a little extra flavor from the bone.
Next, let’s talk about honey. We’re using a generous amount, split into two applications – one for the marinade and another for the final glaze. Local Hive Honey is my preferred choice, and for good reason: it’s raw and unfiltered, retaining all the natural enzymes and flavors. Their Washington varietal, harvested from the diverse microclimates of the Pacific Northwest, is exceptional – it boasts a rich, bold flavor profile perfectly complemented by the harissa. You can find it at Local Hive Honey’s website or many specialty food retailers. Alternatively, any good quality raw honey will work wonderfully. The flavor depends on the region the honey came from, and experimentation is encouraged! Raw Honey Brands are available to buy.
Now for the spice – harissa. This chili paste is the driving force behind the dish’s complex flavor. Harissa Paste is the key component. I strongly recommend sourcing a good quality harissa; it really elevates the whole experience. You’ll find it readily available at most supermarkets, and especially at stores like Whole Foods and Trader Joe’s. Harissa Paste Ingredients usually include red peppers, chilies, lemon juice, garlic, cumin, coriander, and caraway seeds. Harissa Recipe is a great starting point if you want to make your own.
Let’s not forget the aromatics! A single clove of garlic, freshly grated or pressed, is essential for depth of flavor. Fresh Garlic adds a crucial layer of complexity. Paprika is another vital spice—we’re using sweet paprika here to balance the heat and enhance the honey’s sweetness. Sweet Paprika is your best bet. Paprika Types can vary, so experiment to find your preferred level of flavor. Olive oil, of course, is used for cooking and for creating the luscious glaze. Olive Oil Types adds richness and helps the honey and spices bind together. Finally, don’t forget a pinch of salt and freshly cracked black pepper to season. Salt and Pepper is a crucial seasoning for any good dish.
Here’s a quick summary of the ingredients you’ll need:
- 4-5 chicken thighs boneless skinless
- 2 tbsp harissa
- 4 tbsp honey split in 2
- 2 tsp paprika
- 1 clove garlic large, or 2 medium, grated into a paste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- salt + pepper
How to Make Harissa Honey Chicken: Step-by-Step
Let’s dive into crafting this incredible Harissa Honey Chicken. It’s easier than you might think, and the reward – a deeply flavorful, slightly charred, and perfectly balanced dish – is well worth the effort. Here’s a detailed breakdown:
1. Prepare the Marinade: In a medium bowl, combine 2 tablespoons of harissa – think of it as the soul of the dish, delivering that initial spicy punch – with 4 tablespoons of honey, divided. Honey is key here; it’s not just sweetness, it’s a vehicle for the spice, tenderizing the chicken and creating that signature glossy glaze. Add 2 teaspoons of paprika, introducing a subtle smokiness that beautifully complements the harissa. Next, grate 1 clove of garlic – roughly, don’t worry about precision – and add it to the mixture. Finally, drizzle in 2 tablespoons of olive oil. The olive oil adds richness and helps the marinade adhere to the chicken. Mix all the ingredients thoroughly with a spoon or spatula until you achieve a thick, luscious paste. Taste the marinade – you can adjust it slightly if you want a more intense harissa flavor, or more sweetness from the honey. This is your chance to personalize it.
2. Coat the Chicken: Now, take your 4-5 chicken thighs – boneless and skinless for speed and ease, though bone-in thighs work perfectly too! – and place them in a large bowl. Generously coat each thigh with the harissa honey paste, ensuring every surface is covered. Don’t be shy! Press the paste firmly into the meat. You can also use your hands to really massage it in. Once all the thighs are coated, cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, but ideally an hour or two, or even overnight for maximum flavor penetration. The longer it marinates, the more deeply infused the chicken will be with those wonderful spices.
3. Roasting to Perfection: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup. Arrange the marinated chicken thighs in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, making sure they aren’t overcrowded. Overcrowding will steam the chicken instead of roasting it properly. Roast the chicken for 20-30 minutes for boneless thighs, or 40-55 minutes for bone-in thighs. Check for doneness by inserting a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the thigh. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). If using bone-in thighs, you’ll notice the juices run clear when they’re fully cooked – that’s a great indicator.
4. The Glaze – Building the Char: Once the chicken is cooked through, remove it from the oven. This is where the magic truly happens. In a small bowl, combine 2 tablespoons of honey with a 1-2 spoonfuls of the flavorful chicken juices and the olive oil that’s pooled up on the baking sheet – don’t discard this! It’s packed with flavor and intensifies the glaze. Mix well. Now, brush the honey glaze generously over the chicken thighs. Place the chicken back into the oven under the broiler for 3-5 minutes, watching carefully to prevent burning. The broiler’s high heat will caramelize the honey, creating that desirable sticky, slightly charred exterior. You’re looking for a beautiful, glossy finish.
5. Rest & Serve: Once the glaze has set and the chicken is beautifully browned, remove it from the oven. Let the chicken rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful dish. Serve immediately with your favorite sides – perhaps basmati rice, a vibrant green salad, or a creamy tzatziki sauce for a cooling counterpoint to the spice. Enjoy this delectable Harissa Honey Chicken – a truly special and memorable meal!
How to Serve Your Harissa Honey Chicken: Delicious Pairings
Let’s be honest – this isn’t a CAVA copycat recipe; it’s a vastly superior experience. Serving your harissa honey chicken thighs is where the real magic happens, transforming a fantastic dish into an unforgettable meal. The key isn’t just what you serve alongside it, but how you elevate the entire dining experience. Consider the balance of flavors and textures, aiming for dishes that complement, not compete with, the rich spice and sweetness of the chicken.
Classic Pairings:
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Basmati Rice: A generous portion of fluffy, fragrant basmati rice is the quintessential accompaniment. Its subtle sweetness and slightly nutty flavor perfectly absorbs the delicious juices from the chicken. Rice Varieties offers a fantastic selection to choose from, from long grain to short grain, each delivering a unique texture and flavor profile.
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Greek Salad: A classic Greek salad – crisp romaine lettuce, juicy tomatoes, salty Kalamata olives, creamy feta cheese, and a bright lemon vinaigrette – provides a refreshing counterpoint to the richness of the chicken. The acidity of the lemon cuts through the honey, creating a harmonious balance. Lemon Vinaigrette Recipes are readily available if you want to make your own.
Elevated Pairings:
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Vermicelli Rice: This isn’t just a suggestion; it’s practically a revelation. Vermicelli rice, with its delicate, thread-like strands, provides a textural contrast that’s unbelievably satisfying. It soaks up the sauce beautifully, delivering bursts of flavor with every bite. Vermicelli Rice Recipe is a great place to start.
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Roasted Sweet Potatoes & Broccoli: The sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes pairs exceptionally well with the honey glaze, while broccoli offers a pleasant bitterness and textural element. Adding a drizzle of tahini would also be a fantastic addition here.
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Beets & Greens Salad: This vibrant salad offers an earthy sweetness and a delightful bitterness that plays beautifully against the spicy, savory chicken. The inclusion of fresh herbs, such as mint or parsley, adds an extra layer of freshness. Beet Salad Recipes are widely available.
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Alongside a robust cheese like feta or halloumi – the salty, briny flavors are a fantastic complement.
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A Simple Cucumber & Tomato Salad: Sometimes, the simplest pairings are the most effective. A refreshing cucumber and tomato salad with a squeeze of lime juice provides a cooling contrast to the spicy chicken.
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Don’t forget the bread! A crusty artisan loaf (perhaps a sourdough or ciabatta) is perfect for soaking up all those delicious juices. Homemade Pita Bread is also great! If you would like to try another simple bread recipe, you could use Ciabatta Recipe.
Ultimately, feel free to experiment and create a pairing that truly reflects your taste. This harissa honey chicken is versatile enough to stand up to almost anything!
Frequently Asked Questions About Harissa Honey Chicken
Let’s address some common questions about this incredible dish – it’s designed to be straightforward, but we want to make sure you have all the information you need to create a truly fantastic meal.
Can I substitute chicken thighs for chicken breasts? Absolutely not. The fat drippings from the chicken thighs are absolutely crucial to creating that sticky, luscious honey glaze. Without the rendered fat, the honey simply won’t cling to the chicken and will result in a dry, uninspired dish. You’re looking for a rich, deeply flavored glaze, and the chicken fat is essential for achieving that. fat rendering
Can I substitute harissa? This is a resounding NO. While you could technically experiment with other chili pastes, the specific blend of spices in harissa – the red peppers, cumin, coriander, lemon juice, garlic – creates the signature flavor profile of this dish. Substituting would drastically alter the taste, and you wouldn’t get the authentic Harissa Honey Chicken experience. Buying harissa is a non-negotiable! exploring harissa variations
What do I serve with this? These honey-glazed chicken thighs are incredibly versatile! They pair beautifully with a variety of sides. For a classic Mediterranean feel, basmati rice is a fantastic choice, offering a light and fluffy base to soak up the flavorful sauce. Alternatively, vermicelli rice delivers an intriguing textural element. If you’re aiming for a vibrant and fresh experience, my beet salad with greens provides a brilliant counterpoint with its earthiness and crunch. Roasted sweet potatoes, broccolini or cauliflower would also be excellent additions. For a Greek-inspired twist, consider a simple cucumber tomato onion Greek salad. Ultimately, the best side dish is what you enjoy most!
Can I use a different type of honey? While I strongly recommend Local Hive HoneyTM, particularly the Washington varietal for its richer flavor – you can experiment with other honey types. However, keep in mind that the flavor of the honey will influence the final taste of the dish. Understanding honey varieties lighter honeys might require slightly more harissa to balance the sweetness, while darker honeys may need a touch less. Just be sure to select a honey with a robust flavor profile. local hive honey varietals
What about spices? While I’ve provided a starting point, feel free to adjust the spices to your liking. A pinch of cayenne pepper can boost the heat, while a little extra cumin can deepen the earthy notes. Experimentation is key! spice blends
How can I prevent the honey from burning? Keep a close eye on the chicken during the final broiling stage. The honey can burn quickly, so reduce the oven temperature slightly or broil for shorter intervals. broiling techniques“}
Storing and Reheating Your Harissa Honey Chicken
Keeping your Harissa Honey Chicken delicious for days is easier than you think! Properly storing the leftovers ensures maximum flavor and convenience.
Storing: Once you’ve enjoyed a portion of this spicy-sweet delight, it’s best to store the remaining chicken thighs in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This helps maintain its moisture and prevents it from drying out. For optimal freshness, consume the leftovers within 3-4 days. The harissa honey marinade itself is also perfectly safe to store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days – you might even find yourself using it to flavor rice or vegetables! When storing, it’s a good idea to divide the chicken into smaller portions for easier reheating later. You could, for example, portion out a few thighs into individual zip-top bags for quicker grab-and-go meals.
Reheating: Reheating your Harissa Honey Chicken brings back all those incredible flavors. The best way to revive this dish is by returning it to the oven on 350°F (175°C) for approximately 20-30 minutes, or until it’s heated through. Check the internal temperature to ensure it reaches 165°F (74°C) for food safety. For a quicker option, you can use a microwave – but be mindful that this can sometimes result in a slightly drier texture. To combat this, add a tablespoon of the honey-oil mixture that’s left in the pan to re-introduce moisture. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until warmed through. Alternatively, you can reheat individual thighs in a skillet with a drizzle of olive oil. Watch carefully to prevent burning, and add a splash of Local Hive Honey if you’d like to intensify the sweetness. Reheating in the oven provides the best balance of even heat and moisture retention. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different heating methods to find what works best for you!
To really extend the life of your Harissa Honey Chicken, consider freezing leftovers. While the texture may change slightly upon thawing, it’s still a viable option for future meals. Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer-safe bag. Thaw completely in the refrigerator before reheating. If you’re planning on freezing, we recommend cooking the chicken to 165F first as this ensures food safety. Don’t freeze the chicken for longer than 3-4 months for best quality. The addition of honey to the marinade can impact texture over extended freezing periods, but the flavor will still remain. For more inspiration on how to utilize your leftover harissa – think incorporating the paste into a vibrant labneh with roasted tomatoes https://www.example.com/labneh-harissa-roasted-tomatoes – or perhaps adding a fiery kick to a creamy sun-dried pasta dish https://www.example.com/spicy-sun-dried-tomato-pasta!