Description
These Hot Honey-Harissa Chicken Bites deliver a perfect balance of sweet, spicy, and savory flavors. Ideal as a game day appetizer, party snack, or quick weeknight dinner, these tender chicken pieces are coated in a vibrant harissa and hot honey glaze, then broiled to a glossy, caramelized finish. Serve them on their own or alongside rice or a fresh salad for an irresistibly flavorful meal.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 1½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces
- 2 tablespoons neutral oil (canola or avocado)
- ¾ teaspoon salt, divided
Harissa Honey Sauce
- 3 tablespoons harissa paste
- 3 tablespoons hot honey, divided
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ⅛ teaspoon salt
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, cubed
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice, plus lemon wedges for serving
- 1½ teaspoons finely chopped fresh cilantro
Instructions
- Prep and Broil Chicken: Preheat your oven to broil and position the rack in the upper third. Line a large rimmed baking sheet with foil. Toss the chicken pieces with 2 tablespoons of neutral oil and ½ teaspoon salt so they're evenly coated. Spread them out in a single layer on the baking sheet, ensuring space between pieces. Broil until lightly browned, about 7 minutes.
- Make Harissa Honey Sauce: While the chicken broils, whisk together harissa paste, 2 tablespoons of hot honey, smoked paprika, and ⅛ teaspoon salt in a medium microwave-safe bowl. Microwave on High for about 1 minute until the mixture bubbles. Stir in the cubed butter and lemon juice until the butter melts fully. Set aside 1½ tablespoons of this sauce in a small bowl for later use.
- Coat Chicken and Broil Again: Using tongs, transfer the broiled chicken from the baking sheet into the harissa sauce bowl and toss to coat evenly. Discard any excess liquid from the foil-lined baking sheet. Return the coated chicken to the baking sheet in a single layer. Broil again until the chicken is glossy, deeply browned, and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F, about 3 to 4 minutes.
- Finish and Serve: Transfer the chicken bites to a serving platter. Spoon any excess unburned sauce from the foil onto the chicken. Brush the chicken with the reserved 1½ tablespoons of harissa sauce and drizzle with the remaining 1 tablespoon of hot honey. Sprinkle with the remaining ⅛ teaspoon salt and chopped cilantro. Serve with lemon wedges for added brightness if desired.
Notes
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches 165°F for safe consumption.
- If you prefer less heat, reduce the amount of harissa or hot honey to taste.
- Serve these chicken bites over rice or with a crisp green salad to make a complete meal.
- Broiling times may vary depending on your oven; watch closely to avoid burning the honey glaze.
- The foil-lined baking sheet makes cleanup easier and prevents sticking.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 15 mins
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Broiling
- Cuisine: North African Inspired
