harissa honey chicken

If you’ve never tried harissa honey chicken, get ready this dish is bold, sweet, spicy, and totally weeknight-worthy. It’s inspired by the cult-favorite chicken from CAVA, but with an easy homemade twist that brings restaurant-quality flavor straight to your kitchen.

I first discovered harissa honey chicken on a frantic afternoon, juggling errands and starving kids. One bite of that smoky-sweet chicken, and I was obsessed. Back home in Oregon, I recreated the flavor with everyday ingredients and a little mom-style magic. Now it’s a regular on our dinner table and I’m sharing it with you.

In this guide, I’ll show you exactly how to make harissa honey chicken from scratch, whether you want it sizzling hot or family-friendly mild. You’ll also get ideas for what to serve it with, tips for making your own harissa paste, and swaps to turn it into a meal-prep hero.

Whether you’re cooking for picky eaters, heat-lovers, or just want something new to shake up your chicken routine this one’s a keeper.

Key Takeaways: What You Need to Know

• Harissa honey chicken combines smoky North African chili paste with sweet, sticky honey for a bold, flavorful dish.
• It’s quick to make and easily adjustable from mild to spicy.
• This recipe is inspired by CAVA’s popular harissa honey chicken bowl no takeout needed.
• It pairs beautifully with couscous, rice bowls, or fresh Mediterranean sides.
• You can swap chicken for tofu, shrimp, or salmon using the same marinade.
• Homemade harissa is easier than you think if you can’t find it locally.

The Story Behind My Harissa Honey Chicken

Why I Fell for Harissa Honey Chicken

Let me tell you this recipe started with a lunch I didn’t want to have.

I’d been running errands with the kids all morning, it was pushing 2 PM, and we were all hangry. I spotted a CAVA, walked in without expectations, and ordered a harissa honey chicken bowl because it sounded interesting. One bite in and I was hooked.

Smoky. Sweet. Spicy, but not in a burn-your-face-off way. Just the right kind of heat that builds slowly and makes you crave the next bite. That flavor stuck with me.

Later that week, I stood in my kitchen determined to recreate that harissa honey chicken from scratch something that tasted like CAVA but didn’t require a 30-minute drive (or the extra cost). After a few tries and a bit of tweaking, I nailed it. And now, this recipe is in heavy rotation at our house.

The beauty of harissa honey chicken is that it feels fancy but cooks up fast. It’s weeknight-dinner easy and versatile enough for a big family meal or meal prep bowls.

If you’ve never cooked with harissa before, don’t worry. I’ll walk you through what it is, how to make it or buy it, and how to adjust the heat so it works for your whole family (even picky eaters).

From my Oregon kitchen to yours let’s dive in.

What Is Harissa Honey Chicken, Really?

Harissa honey chicken is a savory-sweet dish made by marinating or glazing chicken in a mix of North African chili paste (harissa) and honey. The combination creates a caramelized, slightly spicy crust when cooked, balancing heat with sticky sweetness. It’s often paired with rice bowls, couscous, or pita for a Mediterranean-style meal.

This dish has exploded in popularity, thanks in part to restaurants like CAVA, but you can easily make your own harissa honey chicken copycat recipe at home using just a few pantry staples.

What’s Coming Next

In the next section, we’ll break down exactly how to make harissa honey chicken in under 30 minutes, plus tips to customize it for your spice tolerance and dietary needs. We’ll also cover:

• What harissa actually tastes like
• Where to buy it (or how to make your own)
• The secret to getting that crispy, caramelized finish

Ready? Let’s get cooking.

How to Make Harissa Honey Chicken (Step-by-Step)

What Ingredients Do You Need for Harissa Honey Chicken?

Harissa honey chicken comes together with a handful of pantry staples—and if you’ve got chicken and honey, you’re already halfway there. The rest adds that smoky-sweet heat you’ll come back to again and again.

To make harissa honey chicken, you’ll need chicken thighs or breasts, harissa paste, honey, olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, and a few simple spices. Mix into a marinade, coat the chicken, and either bake, grill, or pan-sear until caramelized and cooked through.

Ingredients List

Optional Add-ins:

• ½ tsp cumin for warmth
• Crushed red pepper flakes for extra spice
• A splash of yogurt for tenderness if marinating overnight

How Do You Cook Harissa Honey Chicken?

You can roast it, pan-sear it, or even grill it. I love pan-searing for a quick dinner with a sticky glaze but if I’m meal-prepping, the oven wins for ease.

Step-by-step instructions:

Option 1: Stovetop (Fast & Flavorful)

1. Mix the marinade.
   In a bowl, whisk together harissa paste, honey, olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, paprika, and salt.
2. Coat the chicken.
   Toss chicken in the marinade until well coated. Let it sit for 15–30 minutes (or up to 24 hours in the fridge for deeper flavor).
3. Sear to caramelize.
   Heat a skillet over medium-high. Add a little oil, then sear chicken 4–5 minutes per side until golden, sticky, and cooked through (internal temp: 165°F).
4. Rest & serve.
   Let it rest 5 minutes before slicing. Spoon any extra pan sauce on top.

Option 2: Oven-Roasted (Set & Forget)

1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. Place marinated chicken on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
3. Bake for 20–25 minutes or until internal temp hits 165°F.
4. Broil for 2–3 minutes at the end for crispy edges and caramelization.

Pro Tip: Want that signature CAVA harissa chicken taste? Use chicken thighs and grill them for smoky depth.

What Does Harissa Honey Chicken Taste Like?

Harissa honey chicken tastes smoky, sweet, and spicy with deep chili flavor balanced by sticky honey and zesty lemon. It’s bold, layered, and addictively delicious, especially when seared until caramelized.

While you’re at it, try these related chicken recipes for variety:

• Pair it with this Mediterranean-style Roman-style chicken for a flavor-packed dinner duo.
• Want a creamy counterpoint? Serve with creamy lemon garlic chicken on the side.
• Need more dinner heroes? You’ll love my stuffed chicken breast recipe too.

What to Serve with Harissa Honey Chicken

What Goes Well with Harissa Honey Chicken?

Harissa honey chicken pairs well with Mediterranean-style grains, veggies, and sauces. Think rice bowls, couscous, or fresh salads, balanced with creamy or tangy elements like tzatziki, hummus, or feta. It’s endlessly customizable and meal-prep-friendly.

Build Your Own Harissa Honey Chicken Bowl (CAVA Copycat Style)

If you’re craving that harissa honey chicken CAVA bowl, here’s how to recreate it at home. Use the chicken as your base, then layer on your favorite grains, greens, and toppings. Here’s a simple mix we love:

Base Ideas:

• Brown rice
• Quinoa
• Couscous
• Cauliflower rice (low-carb option)

Greens:

• Romaine
• Arugula
• Baby spinach
• Mixed spring greens

Toppings:

• Diced cucumber
• Pickled red onion
• Cherry tomatoes
• Kalamata olives
• Roasted chickpeas
• Feta cheese

Sauces (store-bought or homemade):

• Tzatziki (creamy and cool)
• Garlic yogurt sauce (tangy + simple)
• Lemon tahini dressing (nutty and bright)
• Hummus or red pepper hummus (for layering or dipping)

Quick Sauces to Drizzle or Dip

Here’s a 2-minute garlic yogurt sauce I make all the time with this chicken:

Garlic Yogurt Sauce:

• ½ cup plain Greek yogurt
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 clove garlic (grated)
• Pinch of salt
• Optional: drizzle of olive oil + chopped fresh dill

Stir it all together, and boom creamy tang that cools the spice.

Want a Lighter Option?

Turn this into a salad-style bowl by skipping the grains and doubling the greens. Top with grilled veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, and red onion for a low-carb, high-flavor meal.

Or serve it over a simple side like my zucchini mushroom soup with chicken for a cozy, lighter dinner that still feels indulgent.

Bonus: What to Drink With It?

For wine lovers, a chilled rosé or dry Riesling pairs beautifully with the spicy-sweet balance of harissa honey chicken. For something non-alcoholic, cucumber mint lemonade or a lightly sparkling lime water keeps things fresh and cooling.

Is Harissa Honey Chicken Spicy? (And How to Tame It)

How Spicy Is Harissa Honey Chicken, Really?

Harissa honey chicken is mildly to moderately spicy depending on the harissa used. The honey helps balance the heat, but if you’re sensitive to spice—or cooking for kids—you can easily dial it down.

Understanding Harissa Heat

Harissa is a North African chili paste made from roasted red peppers, hot chilies, garlic, spices, and olive oil. It has a slow-building heat—not a punch-in-the-mouth burn. Think smoky, rich, and slightly tangy.

There are two main types:

• Tunisian-style harissa – hotter, often uses bird’s eye or serrano chilies
• Moroccan-style harissa – milder, more balanced with spices like cumin and coriander

Most store-bought brands (like Mina, Trader Joe’s, or Whole Foods 365) are moderately spicy, but it varies. Always taste-test first.

How to Control the Spice in Harissa Honey Chicken

If you or your family prefer milder dishes, no worries—this recipe is super flexible.

For Less Heat:

• Use 1 tablespoon harissa instead of 2–3
• Add extra honey or lemon juice to mellow the spice
• Stir a spoonful of plain yogurt into the marinade (bonus: tender chicken!)
• Mix harissa with olive oil to dilute intensity without losing flavor

For More Heat:

• Add crushed red pepper flakes
• Mix in a pinch of cayenne
• Use a spicy harissa brand or add a dash of hot sauce

Kid-Friendly Tip:

When I make this for my littles, I split the marinade and reduce harissa to 1 teaspoon in theirs. They love it with rice and a dollop of Greek yogurt and no complaints about “too spicy!”

Real Review from My Kitchen: Harissa Honey Chicken Test Drive

I tested this dish on my family during a Sunday dinner no filters, no bribes. My husband, who’s team “spice is nice,” gave it a solid “This is like CAVA, but better.”

My 9-year-old dipped hers in tzatziki and asked if I could pack it for lunch the next day (win!).

And my neighbor, who popped over mid-meal, took one bite and said, “Wait, what is this? It’s spicy, but in a good way.”

That’s the magic of harissa honey chicken it’s bold but balanced. And once you try it, you’ll get why it’s one of our weekly go-tos.

For even more chicken dinner favorites, try these:

• Alice Springs Chicken Recipe – cheesy, savory, and kid-approved
• Belizean Chicken Stew – warm spices and deep flavor
• Creamy Mushroom and Spinach Stuffed Chicken – for nights when you want a little indulgence

How to Make Harissa from Scratch (Easy & Adaptable)

Can I Make Harissa Paste at Home?

Yes! Homemade harissa is surprisingly simple and super customizable. All you need are dried chilies, roasted red peppers, garlic, olive oil, and warm spices. It comes together in a blender and keeps for weeks in the fridge.

To make harissa from scratch, blend rehydrated dried chilies, roasted red peppers, garlic, olive oil, and spices like cumin and coriander into a thick, smooth paste. Store it in a jar in the fridge for up to 3 weeks.

Homemade Harissa Paste Recipe

This is my go-to harissa recipe when I can’t find my usual jar at the store—or just want to control the spice level.

Ingredients:

• 4 dried guajillo or New Mexico chilies (mild)
• 2 dried arbol or chile de árbol (hot – optional)
• 1 roasted red bell pepper (jarred or homemade)
• 3 garlic cloves
• 2 tbsp olive oil (plus more for storing)
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp coriander
• ½ tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• Salt to taste

Instructions:

1. Soak dried chilies:
   Remove stems/seeds. Soak chilies in hot water for 20 minutes until softened.
2. Blend:
   Drain chilies and add to a blender with all other ingredients. Blend until smooth and thick. Add more oil or a splash of chili soaking water to thin, if needed.
3. Taste & adjust:
   Add more lemon or spices to balance. Want it smokier? Add extra paprika. Spicier? Toss in an extra dried chili.
4. Store:
   Transfer to a clean jar and cover the top with a thin layer of olive oil. Store in the fridge for 2–3 weeks.

Pro Tip:

This homemade harissa is fantastic in everything spread on sandwiches, stirred into soups, mixed into hummus, or drizzled over roasted veggies. But when used in harissa honey chicken, it shines brightest.

Can’t Make It? These Store-Bought Harissas Are Great:

If you’re short on time, don’t worry. Here are a few solid options that balance flavor and heat well:

Pair your homemade harissa paste with these dishes for more North African or Mediterranean flair:

• Easy Cream of Mushroom Chicken – harissa adds depth to creamy sauces
• Chicken Stew Recipe – stir harissa into the broth for heat and color
• Stuffed Chicken Breast – brush harissa inside for a spicy surprise

Harissa Honey Chicken

Lora

Bold, sweet, and spicy harissa honey chicken inspired by CAVA. This weeknight-worthy dish combines smoky North African chili paste with sticky honey for caramelized, flavor-packed chicken that's easily customizable from mild to spicy.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 35 minutes mins

Course dinner

Cuisine Mediterranean, Middle Eastern

Servings 4

Calories 320 kcal

Equipment

• mixing bowl
• whisk
• Large skillet OR baking sheet
• Meat thermometer

Ingredients

  

• 1.5 lbs | boneless skinless chicken thighs or breasts
• 2-3 tbsp | harissa paste adjust to taste
• 2 tbsp | honey
• 2 tbsp | olive oil
• 3 cloves | garlic minced
• 1 tbsp | lemon juice
• 1 tsp | smoked paprika
• | salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

 

• In a bowl, whisk together harissa paste, honey, olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper until well combined.
• Add chicken to the marinade and toss until well coated. Let sit for 15-30 minutes at room temperature (or up to 24 hours in the fridge for deeper flavor).
• Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add a drizzle of oil, then add marinated chicken. Sear for 4-5 minutes per side until golden, sticky, and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F).
• Remove from heat and let rest for 5 minutes before slicing. Spoon any extra pan sauce over the top before serving.
• Preheat oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
• Mix marinade and coat chicken as described above.
• Place marinated chicken on prepared baking sheet. Bake for 20-25 minutes until internal temperature reaches 165°F.
• Optional: Broil for 2-3 minutes at the end for crispy, caramelized edges. Let rest 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

Spice Level: Start with 2 tbsp harissa for moderate heat. Use 1 tbsp for mild, or 3+ tbsp for extra spicy. Add yogurt to marinade to mellow the heat.

Make It Kid-Friendly: Reduce harissa to 1 tsp and serve with cooling tzatziki or Greek yogurt.

Storage: Keeps well in the fridge for 3-4 days. Perfect for meal prep bowls.

Serving Suggestions: Serve over rice, quinoa, or couscous with cucumber, feta, hummus, and tzatziki for a CAVA-style bowl.

Other Proteins: This marinade works great on salmon, shrimp, tofu, or pork chops too!

Keyword CAVA copycat, harissa chicken, honey chicken, meal prep breakfast, Mediterranean chicken, spicy chicken, weeknight dinner

Can I Use Harissa Honey Marinade on Other Meats?

What Other Proteins Work with Harissa Honey?

The harissa honey combo isn’t just for chicken it’s magic on salmon, shrimp, tofu, and even pork. The sweet-spicy marinade caramelizes beautifully and brings out bold flavor in lean or mild-tasting proteins.

Yes, harissa honey marinade works with salmon, shrimp, tofu, pork, or beef. Adjust cook times and use the same glaze to create bold, flavorful meals across proteins.

Best Harissa Honey Swaps for Chicken

Here’s how to adapt the marinade for different meats and meatless options:

Want to Go Plant-Based?

Tofu or tempeh is a great option for meatless nights. Harissa honey gives tofu a crisp, sticky coating when baked or air-fried. Pair it with quinoa, chickpeas, and lemon tahini for a plant-powered bowl that doesn’t taste like a compromise.

Personal Favorite: Harissa Honey Glazed Salmon

I’ve made this recipe using the same marinade on salmon fillets for a quick weeknight dinner, and it’s just as good if not better than chicken. Just brush the marinade over the fillets, roast until flaky, and finish with a broil for that irresistible sticky top.

My husband, who isn’t usually a fish fan, called it “dessert salmon” in the best way possible.

Use It Across the Week

This recipe is perfect for meal prep. Make one batch of harissa honey marinade and use it over multiple proteins:

• Chicken for Monday
• Salmon on Tuesday
• Tofu stir-fry on Wednesday
• Leftovers for lunch bowls all week

It’s one flavor base, endless dinner ideas.

For more globally inspired proteins, check out:

• Belizean Chicken Stew – rich, soulful flavor
• Alice Springs Chicken – Low Carb – protein-packed and full of texture
• Creamy Lemon Garlic Chicken – a creamy counterpoint to harissa’s heat

Health Benefits of Harissa + Final Cooking Tips

Is Harissa Good for You?

Yes harissa is more than just flavor, it’s packed with natural ingredients that support heart health, metabolism, and digestion.

Harissa offers health benefits including anti-inflammatory properties, improved metabolism, and antioxidant support, thanks to its base of chili peppers, garlic, and olive oil.

Top Health Benefits of Harissa

Final Cooking Tips for Harissa Honey Chicken Success

1. Taste your harissa before using.
   Every brand is different—start small, then build heat.
2. Double the marinade.
   Use half to marinate, and save the rest for brushing during cooking or drizzling after.
3. Let it rest.
   Resting cooked chicken for 5 minutes helps juices settle, keeping it tender.
4. Meal prep it.
   Harissa honey chicken holds up beautifully for 3–4 days. Perfect for bowls, salads, or wraps.
5. Don’t skip the acid.
   Lemon juice or a splash of vinegar brightens the whole dish and balances the sweetness.

Real-Life Review: What Readers Are Saying

“Made this last night with the homemade harissa recipe and WOW my husband said it tastes just like CAVA but fresher. This one’s going on repeat!”
Jessica H., Portland, OR

“Used tofu instead of chicken and even my meat-eater roommate loved it. We had it over quinoa with hummus and cucumbers so good!”
Marissa D., Seattle, WA

FAQ: Harissa Honey Chicken Questions Answered

Conclusion: Bring Harissa Honey Chicken Into Your Real-Life Dinner Rotation

If there’s one thing I’ve learned in my kitchen, it’s this: bold flavor doesn’t have to mean complicated cooking. This harissa honey chicken proves that in every juicy, caramelized bite. Whether you’re craving something a little smoky, a little sweet, or just something new that won’t stress you out at 5 PM—this recipe has your back.

It’s flexible enough to work with what you’ve got in the fridge, fast enough for a weeknight, and impressive enough for when you’re hosting friends or feeding picky eaters. Plus, it’s endlessly adaptable from mild chicken bowls to spicy salmon fillets to plant-based versions that taste anything but boring.

So, whether you’re chasing that CAVA harissa chicken vibe at home or just trying to make Tuesday night dinner a little more exciting, this dish is the sweet-heat solution you didn’t know you needed.

From one busy mom to another you’ve got this. And I’ll be right here with more no-fuss recipes when you’re ready.