Tired of the same old dinner routine? Craving something flavorful, healthy, and surprisingly easy to make? Then look no further! This Harissa Honey Chicken Cava recipe is your answer. It's a vibrant fusion of sweet and spicy, delivering a delicious and satisfying meal that's perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a more relaxed weekend gathering. This recipe is packed with flavor, showcasing the incredible versatility of harissa paste. Get ready to tantalize your taste buds!
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp harissa paste (adjust to your spice preference)
- 1 tbsp honey
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 1 large red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 (14.5 oz) can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro, for garnish
- Crusty bread or couscous, for serving
Instructions:
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Marinate the Chicken: In a large bowl, combine the chicken, olive oil, harissa paste, honey, lemon juice, cumin, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper. Mix well to ensure the chicken is evenly coated. Let it marinate for at least 15 minutes, or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator for maximum flavor.
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Sauté the Vegetables: Heat a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the red onion and bell pepper and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
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Cook the Chicken: Add the marinated chicken to the skillet and cook until browned and cooked through, about 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
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Simmer the Cava: Stir in the cherry tomatoes, chickpeas, and chicken broth. Bring to a simmer, reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 10-15 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly and the flavors have melded beautifully.
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Serve and Enjoy: Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve immediately with crusty bread or couscous to soak up the delicious harissa honey sauce.
Cooking Tips for the Best Harissa Honey Chicken Cava:
- Adjust the Spice Level: Harissa paste varies in spiciness. Start with 1 tablespoon and add more if you prefer a hotter dish.
- Don't Overcrowd the Pan: Cook the chicken in batches if necessary to ensure it browns properly and cooks evenly.
- Taste and Adjust: Season the dish to your liking throughout the cooking process. Add more honey for extra sweetness or lemon juice for brightness.
- Make it a Complete Meal: Serve with a side of quinoa, rice, or a fresh salad for a well-rounded and healthy meal.
Variations:
- Add other vegetables: Feel free to experiment with other vegetables like zucchini, eggplant, or spinach.
- Use different protein: Substitute the chicken with firm tofu or lamb for a vegetarian or different flavor profile.
- Make it a sheet pan meal: For an even easier cleanup, roast all the ingredients on a single sheet pan in the oven.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 400-450
- Protein: 30-35g
- Fat: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 25-30g
This Harissa Honey Chicken Cava recipe is a fantastic example of healthy meal prep and easy recipes. It's a quick dinner idea that's both delicious and nutritious, perfect for busy weeknights or a more relaxed weekend meal. The combination of sweet honey and spicy harissa creates a flavor explosion that's sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy!