Harissa Honey Chicken Bowls: A Flavor-Packed Meal Prep Recipe

If you’re looking for a meal prep recipe that’s bursting with flavor, easy to make, and perfect for lunch or dinner, look no further than these Harissa Honey Chicken Bowls. Inspired by a popular chain restaurant, this dish combines sweet, spicy, and tangy flavors with a variety of fresh ingredients to create a wholesome and satisfying meal. Whether you’re a fan of bold spices or crave a balanced bowl of protein, veggies, and grains, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

In this post, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about making Harissa Honey Chicken Bowls, from the ingredients and step-by-step instructions to tips for customization and storage. Let’s dive in!

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Why You’ll Love Harissa Honey Chicken Bowls

1. Bold and Balanced Flavors: The combination of harissa paste, honey, and lime juice creates a marinade that’s both spicy and sweet, perfectly complementing the tender chicken.
2. Meal Prep Friendly: These bowls are designed to be made ahead of time, making them ideal for busy weekdays.
3. Nutritious and Filling: Packed with protein, fiber, and healthy fats, this dish is as nourishing as it is delicious.
4. Customizable: Swap out ingredients to suit your dietary preferences or use what you have on hand.

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Ingredients for Harissa Honey Chicken Bowls

Here’s what you’ll need to make this flavorful dish:

For the Marinade and Dressing

• ¼ cup harissa paste: Adds a smoky, spicy kick.
• ½ cup honey: Balances the heat with natural sweetness.
• ½ cup lime juice: Provides a tangy freshness.
• ¾ cup olive oil: Helps create a smooth, emulsified dressing.
• 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances the flavors.
• 3 pounds chicken tenders: The star of the dish!

For the Rice

• 2 cups basmati rice: A fragrant, long-grain rice.
• ½ teaspoon turmeric: Adds a vibrant color and earthy flavor.
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice: Brightens the rice.
• ½ teaspoon salt: Seasons the rice perfectly.

For the Bowls

• 3 ears of corn: Fresh and slightly sweet.
• 3 Persian cucumbers: Crisp and refreshing.
• 2 avocados: Creamy and rich in healthy fats.
• ½ cup pickled onions: Adds a tangy crunch.
• ¾ cup crumbled feta: Salty and creamy (optional for dairy-free).
• 10 ounces mixed salad greens: Adds freshness and texture.
• 1 cup hummus: Creamy and protein-packed.
• 1 cup tzatziki: Cool and refreshing (optional for dairy-free).

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Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

1. In a large bowl, whisk together the harissa paste, honey, lime juice, olive oil, and salt.
2. Set aside half of the mixture to use as the dressing later.
3. Add the chicken tenders to the remaining marinade, ensuring they’re fully coated.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (or up to overnight for deeper flavor).

Step 2: Prepare the Pickled Onions

While the chicken marinates, prepare your pickled onions if you’re making them from scratch. Simply slice red onions thinly and soak them in a mixture of vinegar, sugar, and salt for at least 30 minutes.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken and Corn

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F.
2. Place the marinated chicken tenders on a baking sheet.
3. Add the corn (still in their husks) to the same sheet.
4. Bake for 25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.
5. For a charred effect, broil the corn for 5-6 minutes after baking, rotating every 2 minutes.

Step 4: Cook the Turmeric Rice

1. In a pot, combine the basmati rice, water, olive oil, turmeric, and salt.
2. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 10-15 minutes.
3. Once cooked, stir in the lemon juice for a bright finish.

Step 5: Assemble the Bowls

1. Shred the cooked chicken using two forks.
2. Cut the corn kernels off the cob.
3. Slice the cucumbers into half-moons and halve the avocados.
4. In each container, layer the turmeric rice, mixed greens, shredded chicken, corn, and cucumbers.
5. Add a scoop of hummus and tzatziki to each bowl.
6. Top with avocado halves, pickled onions, and crumbled feta.
7. Drizzle with the reserved dressing.

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The Magic of Harissa Paste in Harissa Honey Chicken Bowls

Harissa paste is the star ingredient that gives Harissa Honey Chicken Bowls their signature spicy, smoky flavor. Originating from North African cuisine, harissa is a versatile condiment made from roasted red peppers, chili peppers, garlic, olive oil, and a blend of spices like cumin and coriander. Its complex flavor profile adds depth and warmth to dishes, making it a favorite among food enthusiasts.

In this recipe, harissa paste is combined with honey and lime juice to create a marinade that’s both bold and balanced. The spiciness of the harissa is tempered by the sweetness of the honey, while the lime juice adds a tangy freshness that brightens the dish. This marinade not only infuses the chicken with incredible flavor but also helps keep it moist and tender during cooking.

One of the best things about harissa paste is its versatility. While it’s a key ingredient in this recipe, it can also be used in a variety of other dishes. Try stirring it into soups, spreading it on sandwiches, or mixing it into salad dressings for an extra kick. If you’re new to harissa, start with a small amount and adjust to your preferred spice level.

When shopping for harissa paste, look for it in the international aisle of your grocery store or at specialty food shops. You can also make your own at home by blending roasted red peppers, chili peppers, garlic, and spices. Whether store-bought or homemade, harissa paste is a must-have ingredient for anyone who loves bold, flavorful dishes like these Harissa Honey Chicken Bowls.

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 The Role of Turmeric Rice in Harissa Honey Chicken Bowls

The turmeric rice in Harissa Honey Chicken Bowls is more than just a base—it’s a flavorful and nutritious component that ties the dish together. Turmeric, a vibrant yellow spice, is known for its earthy flavor and numerous health benefits. It contains curcumin, a compound with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, making it a great addition to any meal.

To make the turmeric rice, basmati rice is cooked with turmeric, lemon juice, and a touch of salt. The result is a fragrant, slightly tangy rice that pairs perfectly with the spicy harissa chicken and fresh vegetables. The lemon juice not only enhances the flavor but also helps balance the richness of the dish.

Basmati rice is an excellent choice for this recipe because of its long grains and aromatic quality. It’s light and fluffy, making it an ideal base for grain bowls. If you don’t have basmati rice, you can substitute it with jasmine rice, brown rice, or even quinoa for a gluten-free option.

Turmeric rice is incredibly versatile and can be used in a variety of dishes beyond this recipe. Serve it as a side dish with grilled meats, stir it into soups, or use it as a base for other grain bowls. Its vibrant color and subtle flavor make it a standout ingredient that elevates any meal.

In Harissa Honey Chicken Bowls, the turmeric rice provides a comforting and nutritious foundation that complements the bold flavors of the harissa chicken and fresh toppings. It’s a simple yet essential component that makes this dish truly special.

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 Meal Prep Tips for Harissa Honey Chicken Bowls

One of the best things about Harissa Honey Chicken Bowls is how well they lend themselves to meal prep. With a little planning, you can have a week’s worth of delicious, nutritious meals ready to go. Here are some tips to make the most of this recipe:

1. Marinate in Advance: The chicken can be marinated up to 24 hours ahead of time, allowing the flavors to deepen. Simply prepare the marinade, add the chicken, and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to cook.
2. Cook in Batches: If you’re making multiple servings, cook the chicken and rice in large batches. This saves time and ensures you have enough for the entire week.
3. Store Components Separately: To keep the ingredients fresh, store the rice, chicken, and toppings in separate containers. Assemble the bowls just before eating to prevent the greens from wilting and the avocado from browning.
4. Use Airtight Containers: Invest in high-quality, airtight containers to keep your meals fresh. Glass containers are a great option because they’re durable and microwave-safe.
5. Freeze for Later: If you want to prepare even further in advance, freeze the cooked chicken and rice in individual portions. Thaw them in the refrigerator overnight and reheat before assembling the bowls.
6. Customize as Needed: Meal prep doesn’t have to be boring! Switch up the toppings or sauces to keep things interesting. Add roasted vegetables, swap the hummus for a different dip, or try a different type of cheese.

Tips for Customization

• Make It Dairy-Free: Skip the feta and tzatziki, or use dairy-free alternatives.
• Add More Veggies: Incorporate roasted sweet potatoes, bell peppers, or cherry tomatoes.
• Switch the Protein: Use shrimp, tofu, or chickpeas instead of chicken.
• Adjust the Spice Level: Use less harissa paste if you prefer a milder flavor.

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Storage and Meal Prep Tips

• Refrigerate: Store assembled bowls in airtight containers for up to 4 days.
• Freeze: Freeze the chicken and rice separately for up to 3 months.
• Reheat: Warm the chicken and rice in the microwave, then add fresh toppings like avocado and greens.

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Nutrition Information

Each serving of Harissa Honey Chicken Bowls contains:

• Calories: 1195kcal
• Carbohydrates: 98g
• Protein: 75g
• Fat: 57g
• Fiber: 10g
• Sugar: 18g

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Final Thoughts

These Harissa Honey Chicken Bowls are a perfect blend of sweet, spicy, and tangy flavors, making them a standout meal prep option. With a balance of protein, grains, and fresh veggies, they’re as nutritious as they are delicious. Plus, the recipe is highly customizable, so you can tweak it to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs.