, Sweet, and Simple Chicken Bites

These Hot Honey-Harissa Chicken Bites are the perfect appetizer or snack. They’re easy to make, packed with flavor, and sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Ready in under 30 minutes!
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Hot Honey-Harissa Chicken Bites
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Hot Honey-Harissa Chicken Bites

Course: Appetizer, Main DishCuisine: Fusion, Mediterranean-Inspired
Servings

4

servings
Prep time

10

minutes
Cooking time

15-20

minutes

Tender chicken bites coated in a spicy, sweet, and smoky glaze from hot honey and harissa, perfect as an appetizer or a quick main.

Ingredients

    • 1.5 pounds (about 680g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into 1-inch cubes

    • 1 tablespoon olive oil

    • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

    • 1/2 teaspoon paprika

    • Salt and black pepper to taste

  • For the Hot Honey-Harissa Sauce:

    • 1/4 cup hot honey (or regular honey with a pinch of cayenne or red pepper flakes)

    • 3 tablespoons harissa paste

    • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice

  • For Garnish:

    • 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped

    • Sesame seeds (optional)

Directions

  • Prepare Chicken: Pat the chicken cubes dry with a paper towel. In a medium bowl, toss the chicken with olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.

  • Cook Chicken: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken in a single layer and cook for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and cooked through. Alternatively, for a slightly healthier version, arrange chicken in a single layer in your air fryer basket and air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 10-12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.

  • Make the Sauce: While the chicken cooks, in a separate small bowl, whisk together the hot honey, harissa paste, and fresh lemon juice until smooth.

  • Glaze: Once the chicken is cooked, reduce the heat on the skillet to low. Pour the hot honey-harissa sauce over the chicken and toss to coat every piece. Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens and glazes the chicken.

  • Serve: Transfer the glazed chicken bites to a serving dish. Garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley and a sprinkle of sesame seeds if desired. Serve hot as an appetizer or with rice and a green vegetable as a main dish.

Notes

  • Harissa Paste: Harissa is a North African chili paste that can vary in heat and flavor. Choose a brand you enjoy.
  • Hot Honey: You can buy pre-made hot honey or make your own by gently warming regular honey and stirring in a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes.
  • Chicken: Using chicken thighs will result in a more tender and juicy bite.
  • Serving Suggestions: These bites are great with a side of plain yogurt or a cooling cucumber salad to balance the heat. They can be served over couscous, rice, or on their own with toothpicks for a party.
  • Alternative Cooking Method: The skillet method gives a great sear, while the air fryer method offers a less-mess, less-oil alternative.