Air Fryer Honey Harissa Chicken Meatballs Recipe

Slightly spicy, slightly sweet, these Cava-inspired air fryer Honey Harissa Chicken Meatballs make for the perfect weeknight meal on top of a big Mediterranean bowl!

Updated June 2024

Hold onto your taste buds, because I’m about to unveil my latest obsession: the magnificent @cava a la casa! Let me tell ya, once you’ve had a bite of Cava’s tantalizing Honey Harissa Chicken Meatballs, there’s no turning back. It’s addictive, it’s sensational, and it’s about to get a meatball makeover like you’ve never seen before!

Watch a step-by-step video of how to make this recipe on The Savvy Spoon Instagram here!

Introducing my Air Fryer Honey Harissa Chicken Meatballs. Brace yourselves for a flavor explosion that will have your senses doing the happy dance. We’re talking succulent ground chicken thigh, perfectly seasoned with a medley of minced shallots and garlic, and kissed by the fiery embrace of harissa paste (shout-out to my pals at @traderjoes for that spicy gem). But hold your horses, because there’s a touch of sweetness too—just a tablespoon of honey to balance the heat.

Sprinkle in some kosher salt, a dash of black pepper, and a sprinkle of panko breadcrumbs for that delightful crunch, and we’ve got ourselves a meatball masterpiece!

Here’s how you’ll make my Air Fryer Honey Harissa Chicken Meatballs

Whip up this flavor-packed feast by simply combining all the meatball ingredients in a bowl, giving it a gentle mix, and using a trusty cookie scoop to shape 18 to 20 perfect meatballs. Pop those babies onto a parchment-lined sheet pan and let the air fryer work its magic at 375º for a mere 10 minutes. And while you’re waiting for those meatballs to sizzle, don’t forget to prepare the star-studded supporting cast: tangy pickled red onions and a dreamy tzatziki sauce that will have you licking your lips!!

What else to include in your Mediterranean, Cava-inspired bowls

Now, let’s talk bowls—because these Honey Harissa Chicken Meatballs deserve to be celebrated in all their glory. Picture a bed of vibrant spinach, a fluffy cloud of couscous, and a colorful medley of chopped tomatoes and cucumbers. Oh, and we can’t forget the creamy diced avocado and the tangy pickled red onions that will have your taste buds dancing with joy. To top it all off, a dollop of heavenly tzatziki sauce to add that cool and refreshing finish.

So get ready to embark on a culinary adventure that combines the best of @cava’s addictive flavors with the whimsical charm of Honey Harissa Chicken Meatballs. Trust me, once you take that first bite, you’ll be head over heels, tumbling down the rabbit hole of deliciousness. Buckle up babes and get ready to meet your new favorite meal, these Air Fryer Honey Harissa Chicken Meatballs!

Ingredients:

• 1 lb. ground chicken thigh
• 1 egg
• 1 shallot, minced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp. harissa paste
• 1 tbsp. honey
• 1 tsp. kosher salt
• 1/2 tsp. black pepper
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 2/3 cup panko breadcrumbs

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine the egg, shallot, garlic, harissa paste, honey, salt, pepper, and parsley. Add in ground chicken and mix, then add panko. Mix gently with your hands until just combined. (sprinkle in a little more panko if mixture feels very wet).
2. Use a cookie scoop or your hands to form the mixture into 18-20 meatballs. Place the meatballs on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
3. Preheat your air fryer to 375°F. Cook the meatballs in batches for 10 minutes, or until cooked through.
4. While the meatballs are cooking, prepare your desired accompaniments (see recipe suggestions above for inspiration).

for pickled red onions

• Thinly slice 1 red onion and place it in a shallow bowl. Cover with red wine vinegar, 1/4 tsp. salt & 1/4 tsp. sugar. Toss and place in refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.

for tzatziki sauce

• Grate 1/2 english cucumber and squeeze excess moisture using clean kitchen towel. Add to 1 cup of Greek yogurt with 1 minced clove garlic and salt/pepper.

FAQ Section

What is Harissa Paste?

Harissa paste is becoming increasingly popular and can be found at most grocery stores these days. Look for it in the international aisle, often near the olives and sun-dried tomatoes. Trader Joe’s also carries a delicious harissa paste under its own brand name, Mina Harissa.

Do I have to use ground chicken thighs?

Not at all! Ground turkey works just as well. Chicken breast can be used in a pinch, but it can dry out more easily. If you go that route, be sure to overcook the meatballs.

I don’t have harissa paste.  What can I use instead?

Harissa Paste is the star of the show, but you have options! Here are a couple of ideas:

• Make your own: For a more adventurous approach, try making your own harissa paste.  You’ll need dried chilies, spices like caraway seeds and ground cumin, roasted red bell peppers (for a smoky flavor), and some olive oil. There are many recipes available online.
• Add some spice: If you can’t find harissa paste, but want some heat, try substituting a similar amount of sriracha or chili paste.

Can I bake these meatballs instead of using an air fryer?

Absolutely! Preheat your oven to 400°F and bake the meatballs on a baking tray for 15-20 minutes, or until cooked through.

I’d love to try a different flavor next time. Got any suggestions?

Definitely! Here are a few ideas to riff on this recipe:

• Teriyaki Chicken Meatballs: Swap the harissa paste for 2 tablespoons of soy sauce, 1 tablespoon of honey, and 1 tablespoon of grated ginger.
• Hot Honey Chicken Meatball Bowls: Keep the harissa paste, but add a drizzle of hot honey to the glaze before placing the meatballs in the air fryer. Serve over a bed of cauliflower rice with a sprinkle of crumbled blue cheese.

Looking for more side dish inspiration?

We’ve got you covered! Here are a couple of ideas that pair perfectly with these Honey Harissa Chicken Meatballs:

• Cucumber Herb Salad: Combine chopped cucumber, diced red onion, chopped fresh herbs (like parsley and mint), and a simple vinaigrette made with olive oil, lemon juice, a pinch of sea salt, and a squeeze of fresh lemon.
• Creamy Tahini Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together tahini paste, plain yogurt, a drizzle of olive oil, lemon juice, a clove of garlic (minced), and a pinch of sea salt.

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