CAVA Honey Harissa Chicken Bowls

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CAVA Honey Harissa Chicken Bowls are a delicious and vibrant dish inspired by the popular Mediterranean restaurant chain, CAVA. The dish features tender, marinated chicken cooked with a smoky, spicy harissa sauce and balanced by the sweetness of honey. The chicken is served over a base of warm rice or greens, and topped with a variety of fresh ingredients like cucumber, tomatoes, red onion, and olives. To finish it off, a drizzle of creamy dressing (such as tahini or tzatziki) and a sprinkle of feta cheese or fresh herbs adds extra richness and flavor.

I first made CAVA Honey Harissa Chicken Bowls when I was craving Mediterranean flavors with a bit of heat, and it quickly became a favorite! The combination of spicy harissa and sweet honey creates a perfectly balanced, flavorful coating for the chicken. What I love most about this recipe is how customizable it is—you can add roasted vegetables, hummus, or pickled red onions for extra flavor, or swap the base for quinoa or couscous. Whether for a quick weeknight dinner, meal prep, or a fun dinner party, these bowls are sure to impress!

Perfect for:

• Weeknight dinners
• Meal prepping
• Spicy food lovers
• Healthy and satisfying meals
• Mediterranean-inspired dishes

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Here are 10 reasons why CAVA Honey Harissa Chicken Bowls will become your go-to meal:

• Bold Flavors: The combination of honey and harissa brings together sweet, spicy, and savory notes in every bite.
• Perfectly Grilled Chicken: The chicken is marinated and grilled to juicy perfection, adding a smoky char that elevates the dish.
• Customizable Base: Choose from quinoa, rice, or couscous for the base, tailoring it to your preferences.
• Fresh Veggies: The dish is packed with colorful vegetables like cucumbers, tomatoes, and red onions, adding freshness and crunch.
• Tasty Sauce: The lemon-tahini dressing adds a creamy, zesty finish that complements the spicy chicken beautifully.
• Meal Prep Friendly: The bowls can be easily packed for work or school, making it a great option for meal prepping.
• Quick and Easy: With minimal prep and cook time, you can have this delicious meal ready in under 30 minutes.
• Healthful Ingredients: Packed with lean protein, whole grains, and fresh vegetables, this dish is as nutritious as it is flavorful.
• Versatile Dish: You can adjust the level of spice or swap out ingredients to suit your tastes or dietary needs.
• One-Pan Wonder: The chicken is cooked in one pan, reducing cleanup time and making it an easy weeknight meal.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20 minutes
• Servings: 4 servings
• Calories per serving: Approximately 450-500 calories
• Key Nutrients: Protein: 30g, Carbs: 45g, Fat: 15g

Ingredients

For the Honey Harissa Chicken:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 3 tablespoons harissa paste
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste

the Grain Base:

• 1 cup quinoa, rice, or couscous
• 2 cups water or broth (for cooking the grains)

For the Salad:

• 1 cucumber, diced
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• ½ red onion, thinly sliced
• 1 cup mixed greens (optional)

For the Lemon-Tahini Dressing:

• 3 tablespoons tahini
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon honey
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Water to thin, if necessary

Ingredient Highlights

• Harissa Paste: Adds smoky, spicy heat with a deep, aromatic flavor to the chicken.
• Honey: Balances the heat of the harissa and adds a subtle sweetness.
• Tahini: Brings a creamy richness to the dressing that complements the chicken and vegetables.
• Fresh Vegetables: Add a crisp, refreshing contrast to the warm and spicy chicken.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Marinate the Chicken:

1. Mix Marinade: In a bowl, combine harissa paste, honey, olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Coat the Chicken: Coat the chicken breasts evenly in the marinade and let them sit for at least 10 minutes (or refrigerate for up to 2 hours for more flavor).

Prepare the Grain Base:

3. Cook the Grains: In a medium saucepan, bring 2 cups of water or broth to a boil. Add quinoa, rice, or couscous, and simmer according to the package instructions until cooked. Fluff with a fork and set aside.

Grill the Chicken:

4. Preheat Grill or Pan: Heat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat.
5. Cook the Chicken: Grill the chicken for 6-7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing it.

Prepare the Salad and Dressing:

6. Assemble Salad: While the chicken is grilling, combine diced cucumber, halved cherry tomatoes, and sliced red onion in a bowl.
7. Make Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together tahini, lemon juice, olive oil, honey, salt, and pepper. Add water as needed to thin the dressing to your desired consistency.

Assemble the Bowls:

8. Layer the Bowl: Start with a base of cooked quinoa, rice, or couscous in each bowl.
9. Add the Chicken: Slice the grilled chicken and place it on top of the grain base.
10. Top with Salad: Spoon the salad mixture over the chicken.
11. Drizzle Dressing: Finish by drizzling the lemon-tahini dressing over the top of the bowls.

Serve:

12. Enjoy: Serve immediately, garnished with fresh herbs or additional lemon wedges if desired.

How to Serve

Here are 10 serving suggestions for CAVA Honey Harissa Chicken Bowls:

• For a Quick Lunch: Perfect for a satisfying and nutritious midday meal.
• With Fresh Pita: Serve with warm pita bread or flatbread for extra texture.
• For Meal Prep: Pack the ingredients in separate containers and assemble when ready to eat.
• With Feta Cheese: Sprinkle crumbled feta cheese on top for added creaminess.
• On a Bed of Greens: For a lighter version, serve the chicken and salad on a bed of mixed greens.
• With Hummus: Pair with a side of hummus for extra Mediterranean flavor.
• For a Family Dinner: Serve as a complete meal for a family dinner.
• With Extra Spices: Add a sprinkle of extra paprika or cumin for additional flavor complexity.
• As a Picnic Meal: The bowls are easy to transport for picnics or outdoor events.
• With Pickled Vegetables: Serve alongside pickled veggies to enhance the dish’s tangy notes.

Additional Tips

• Adjust Spice Level: If you prefer a milder dish, reduce the amount of harissa paste in the marinade.
• Grill for Smokier Flavor: Grilling the chicken adds a delicious smoky flavor, but you can also bake it if preferred.
• Make Dressing Ahead: Prepare the lemon-tahini dressing in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Use Rotisserie Chicken: For a quicker option, swap the grilled chicken for rotisserie chicken.
• Customize the Vegetables: Feel free to add other veggies like bell peppers or olives for extra flavor and color.

Recipe Variations

• Spicy Veggie Bowl: Skip the chicken and use roasted vegetables like sweet potatoes, cauliflower, and zucchini for a vegetarian version.
• Greek Yogurt Sauce: Replace tahini dressing with a tangy Greek yogurt sauce for a creamier topping.
• Crispy Chicken: Coat the chicken in breadcrumbs and fry it for a crispy texture.
• Cumin Chicken: Add ground cumin to the marinade for a different layer of flavor.
• Vegan Version: Replace chicken with chickpeas or tofu for a plant-based alternative.
• Avocado Addition: Add sliced avocado to each bowl for a creamy and fresh element.

Special Equipment

• Grill or Grill Pan: For cooking the chicken to juicy perfection.
• Medium Saucepan: To cook the grains of your choice.
• Whisk: For making the lemon-tahini dressing.
• Cutting Board: For slicing and preparing the vegetables and chicken.
• Sharp Knife: For slicing the grilled chicken and veggies.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use a different protein?
   Yes, you can substitute chicken with lamb, beef, or even shrimp.
2. Can I make this dish vegetarian?
   Absolutely! Use roasted vegetables or tofu as a base instead of chicken.
3. How long does this dish last in the fridge?
   The chicken bowls can be stored for up to 3 days in an airtight container.
4. Can I freeze the chicken?
   Yes, you can freeze the cooked chicken for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before using.
5. What can I use instead of harissa paste?
   You can use Sriracha or chili paste as a substitute if you don’t have harissa.
6. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
   Yes, you can prep the chicken, grains, and salad separately and assemble the bowls when ready to serve.
7. Can I double the recipe?
   Yes, simply double the ingredients and use a larger pan or multiple bowls.
8. Is this dish gluten-free?
   Yes, as long as you use a gluten-free grain like quinoa or rice.
9. Can I skip the tahini dressing?
   Yes, but the dressing adds a creamy texture that balances the spice, so consider an alternative sauce.
10. What can I serve with this dish?
    Serve with a side of grilled vegetables, pita bread, or a simple Greek salad.

Conclusion

CAVA Honey Harissa Chicken Bowls are a vibrant and flavorful meal that combines the spicy heat of harissa with the sweet, golden touch of honey. The grilled chicken is perfectly glazed with this savory-sweet combination, creating a mouthwatering balance of flavors. Served over a bed of rice, greens, or quinoa, and topped with a variety of fresh vegetables, creamy hummus, and a drizzle of tangy sauce, these bowls are a complete, satisfying meal that’s both bold and nourishing.

This recipe is highly customizable, allowing you to mix and match your favorite ingredients like cucumbers, pickled onions, olives, or feta cheese for an extra burst of flavor. The honey harissa chicken is the star, but the toppings add depth and freshness, making every bite exciting and unique. You can also make it your own by adding extra spices, a sprinkle of seeds, or a side of pita for an even heartier meal.

I can’t wait to see how your CAVA Honey Harissa Chicken Bowls turn out! Be sure to share your photos on Instagram and tag me—I’d love to see your stunning creations. Don’t forget to leave a comment and let me know how you made this dish your own!