Protein feeling bland? Let’s heat things up with this cava-style honey harissa marinade – the perfect way to spice up 2 pounds of boneless chicken thighs or breasts. It’s sweet, smoky, and just the right amount of fiery—exactly what you need to keep your meals exciting and your recovery on point.
Ingredients
2 lb boneless chicken thighs or breasts
¼ cup harissa (can be found in most supermarkets nowadays)
¼ cup honey
2 tsp smoked paprika
2 tsp cumin
2 tsp salt
2 tbsp olive oil
½ tsp black pepper
Honey and Harissa: A Perfect Duo
This marinade is all about balance. The ¼ cup of harissa—a North African chili paste that’s easier to find than ever in supermarkets—brings a deep, spicy kick that’ll wake up your senses. Then, ¼ cup of honey swoops in to mellow it out with a touch of sweetness, creating a glaze that caramelizes beautifully when cooked.
How to Make it Happen
Combine the ¼ cup harissa, ¼ cup honey, 2 teaspoons smoked paprika, 2 teaspoons cumin, 2 teaspoons salt, 2 tablespoons olive oil, and ½ teaspoon black pepper in a bowl. Whisk until smooth, then coat your 2 pounds of boneless chicken thighs or breasts (thighs for that extra juiciness, breasts for a leaner option). Let it marinate in the fridge for at least 1 hour—2 hours if you’ve got the time, or overnight for maximum flavor.
When you’re ready, grill it over medium heat for that gorgeous char, about 5-7 minutes per side, until the internal temp hits 165°F. No grill? Bake at 400°F for 20-25 minutes, or sear it in a hot skillet with a drizzle of oil. That honey-harissa combo will give you a sticky, caramelized crust that’s pure perfection.
What to Pair It With
Serve this chicken over a bed of fluffy basmati rice to soak up all that sweet-spicy goodness. Want to cool things down? A dollop of Greek yogurt or a quick cucumber-tomato salad on the side does the trick. For extra fuel, roast some veggies like zucchini or sweet potatoes to round out your plate—because you know balance is everything.
Real Flavor, Real Simple
This Cava-style marinade is all about big flavor with minimal effort. The harissa gives it that Mediterranean flair, while the honey keeps it approachable and just a little indulgent. No fancy tools needed—just a bowl, a whisk, and your appetite for something awesome.
So, next time you’re prepping for the week or just craving a dinner that hits all the right spots after a tough session, whip up this honey harissa marinade. It’s the kind of meal that keeps you coming back for more—spicy, sweet, and ready to fuel whatever life throws your way!
