Sweet & Spicy Grilled Harissa-Honey Chicken Skewers

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When I’m in the mood for big flavor, I bust out my jar of Harissa paste. This fiery seasoning is so good when tempered with a bit of honey and used to marinade chicken. Made on a Ninja Woodfire Outdoor Grill, these Grilled Honey Harissa Chicken Skewers recipe brings a smoky, sweet, and spicy flavor to the table without the smoke!

For maximum flavor and not a lot of work, these Grilled Harissa & Honey Chicken Skewers really hit the spot. I love making them on my Ninja Woodfire Outdoor Grill. They’re meaty, spicy with a touch of sweetness, and there’s plenty of smoky flavor from the harissa paste.

I usually prep the skewers the night before or in the morning so they have plenty of time to soak up all that good flavor. 

Here’s a tip: skewer the chicken then rub the marinade all over them and save yourself a step!

Ready for some serious flavor? Fire up your Ninja and give these skewers a try!

Ingredients

• Chicken thighs – Boneless and skinless.
• Harissa
• Honey
• Red onion
• Lemon juice
• Skewers – I like metal skewers.

What is Harissa Paste?

Harissa is a vibrant, flavorful chili paste that originates from North Africa, particularly Tunisia. It’s made from roasted red peppers, hot chili peppers, and a blend of spices like garlic, coriander, caraway, and cumin, all mixed with olive oil to create a rich, spicy paste. It is spicy!

How To Make Grilled Harissa-Honey Chicken Skewers

1. Prepare the chicken: Cut the chicken thighs into long strips
2. Mix the marinade: In a large bowl, combine the harissa, honey, and lemon juice.
3. Marinate the chicken: Add the chicken pieces to the bowl and toss to coat them evenly with the marinade. Top with the sliced onions. Let it sit for at least 30 minutes or up to overnight to absorb the flavors.
4. Preheat the grill: Turn on your Ninja Woodfire Outdoor Grill and set it to medium heat.
5. Assemble the skewers: Thread the marinated chicken strips onto the skewers.
6. Grill the skewers: Place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 6-8 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and has a nice char. 
7. Add the onions to the grill and cook over medium heat until just softened.
8. Serve: Remove the skewers from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes before serving. Serve with the onions and dig in!

Step-By-Step Process

Chef Jenn’s Tips

• Marinate the chicken for as long as you can – up to overnight – for the best flavor.
• Use metal skewers for better heat conduction and easier handling.
• If you prefer a smokier flavor, you can use the smoke function for this Ninja Woodfire Outdoor Grill recipe.
• Baste the chicken with extra marinade during grilling for extra flavor.
• Serve with a sprinkle of fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley for a burst of color and freshness.

Invest in Metal Skewers

Using metal skewers over bamboo offers several benefits, especially for grilling. Metal skewers conduct heat more efficiently, ensuring that the food cooks evenly from all sides. They are reusable, durable, and don’t require soaking before use, unlike bamboo skewers, which need to be soaked to prevent burning and even then still burn most of the time. Metal skewers also provide a sturdier base for heavier ingredients, making them ideal for grilling meats and vegetables without the risk of breaking. Additionally, they are easier to clean and maintain, making them a more convenient and eco-friendly option for frequent grillers.

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Make It A Meal

To make your Grilled Honey Harissa Chicken Skewers a complete meal, serve them with a side of fluffy couscous or a fresh green salad. Grilled vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus also make great accompaniments. For a refreshing finish, pair with a chilled glass of white wine or a citrusy iced tea.

Storage

If you have any leftovers, store the chicken skewers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. For longer storage, remove the chicken from the skewers and place it in a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to two months. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the grill or in a skillet.