CAVA Honey Harissa Chicken Bowls

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Introduction

CAVA Honey Harissa Chicken Bowls are a delicious and vibrant fusion of sweet and spicy, bringing the bold flavors of Mediterranean cuisine to your plate. The tender, marinated chicken is coated in a smoky, spicy harissa sauce, balanced by the sweetness of honey.

This bowl is packed with fresh, nutritious ingredients, including greens, grains, and crisp vegetables, creating a wholesome, satisfying meal that is both flavorful and filling. The combination of smoky heat, tangy sweetness, and hearty grains makes it a perfect meal for any time of day, whether for lunch, dinner, or meal prep.

Inspired by the lively and bold flavors of Mediterranean cuisine, this Honey Harissa Chicken Bowl is sure to become a favorite with its balance of savory, spicy, and sweet elements, making each bite a satisfying experience.

Perfect for:

  • Healthy, flavorful lunches
  • Meal prepping for the week
  • Mediterranean-inspired meals
  • Fans of spicy-sweet flavor combinations

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Here’s why CAVA Honey Harissa Chicken Bowls are a must-try:

  • Sweet & Spicy: The honey harissa sauce creates a unique blend of heat and sweetness.
  • Customizable: You can adjust the ingredients to fit your preferences.
  • Healthy & Balanced: Packed with protein, fiber, and healthy fats for a satisfying meal.
  • Fresh & Vibrant: The combination of greens, grains, and fresh veggies adds texture and flavor.
  • Meal Prep Friendly: Make a batch to enjoy throughout the week for quick and nutritious meals.

Preparation and Cooking Time

  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Preparation Time: 10 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 25 minutes
  • Servings: 4 servings
  • Calories per serving: Approximately 450-500 calories
  • Key Nutrients: Protein, fiber, vitamins A & C, healthy fats

Ingredients

For the Honey Harissa Chicken:

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs for a juicier option)
  • 2 tbsp harissa paste
  • 2 tbsp honey
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice
  • 1 garlic clove, minced
  • 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste

For the Bowl Base:

  • 2 cups cooked quinoa, couscous, or rice (choose your favorite grain)
  • 4 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, or lettuce)
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 cucumber, sliced
  • 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
  • 1/4 cup Kalamata olives, pitted
  • 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)

For the Dressing (Optional):

  • 2 tbsp tahini
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice
  • 1 tbsp water
  • 1 tsp olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Ingredient Highlights

  • Harissa Paste: A North African chili paste that brings heat, smokiness, and depth of flavor to the chicken.
  • Honey: Adds a sweet contrast to the spicy harissa.
  • Quinoa/Couscous/Rice: A hearty base for the bowl, providing carbs and texture.
  • Fresh Veggies: Tomatoes, cucumber, and greens bring a crisp and refreshing element.
  • Tahini Dressing: A creamy, nutty dressing that complements the bold flavors of the chicken and veggies.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Marinate the Chicken:

  1. Make the Marinade:
    In a bowl, combine the harissa paste, honey, olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
  2. Marinate the Chicken:
    Coat the chicken breasts with the marinade, ensuring it is well-covered. Let it marinate for at least 15-20 minutes (or up to 2 hours for more flavor).

Cook the Chicken:

  1. Cook the Chicken:
    Heat a large skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken for 6-7 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked and golden brown on the outside. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C).
  2. Rest the Chicken:
    Remove the chicken from the pan and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing into strips or bite-sized pieces.

Assemble the Bowl:

  1. Prepare the Grain Base:
    Cook your choice of quinoa, couscous, or rice according to the package instructions.
  2. Assemble the Bowls:
    Divide the grain into 4 bowls. Top with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, olives, and feta (if using).
  3. Add the Chicken:
    Place the sliced honey harissa chicken on top of the veggie and grain mixture.

Make the Dressing (Optional):

  1. Prepare the Dressing:
    In a small bowl, whisk together tahini, lemon juice, water, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Add more water to achieve your desired dressing consistency.
  2. Drizzle and Serve:
    Drizzle the tahini dressing over the assembled bowls and serve immediately.

How to Serve

These CAVA Honey Harissa Chicken Bowls are filling and nutritious, but here are a few ideas to elevate your meal:

  • Side of Pita: Serve with warm pita bread or pita chips for added crunch.
  • Hummus: Pair with a side of hummus for an extra Mediterranean touch.
  • Extra Veggies: Add roasted vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or eggplant for added flavor and nutrients.

Additional Tips

  • Add a Protein Mix: While the Honey Harissa Chicken is great on its own, try adding another protein, such as lamb, falafel, or grilled shrimp, for variety and texture.
  • Use Fresh Greens: For extra crunch, mix in fresh leafy greens like arugula, spinach, or kale along with the classic lettuce.
  • Spice It Up: If you love heat, add extra harissa sauce or a drizzle of sriracha on top. You can also add sliced jalapeños for an extra spicy kick.
  • Incorporate Pickled Vegetables: CAVA often includes pickled red onions, but you can also add pickled cucumbers, beets, or radishes for more tang and crunch.
  • Go Nuts: For a bit of texture and flavor contrast, sprinkle toasted pine nuts, almonds, or cashews on top.
  • Crispy Chickpeas: Add a handful of crispy roasted chickpeas for crunch and extra flavor.
  • Cheese Options: Try adding feta or goat cheese for a tangy, creamy element that pairs well with the spicy chicken.
  • Boost with Hummus: A generous scoop of classic or flavored hummus (like roasted red pepper) will add creaminess and enhance the Mediterranean vibe.
  • Avocado Slices: Adding creamy avocado slices will balance the heat from the harissa and add richness to the bowl.
  • Add Fresh Herbs: Garnish your bowl with fresh herbs like parsley, cilantro, or mint to brighten up the flavors and add a fresh, aromatic finish.

Recipe Variations

  • Mediterranean Twist
    Add cucumber, Kalamata olives, and feta cheese to the bowl for a salty, tangy contrast to the sweetness of the honey harissa chicken. Top with a drizzle of tzatziki for extra creaminess.
  • Avocado & Chipotle
    Replace the regular base with brown rice, and top with sliced avocado and a dash of chipotle chili powder for a smoky twist. Garnish with cilantro and a squeeze of lime for freshness.
  • Spicy Mango Salsa
    Add a refreshing spicy mango salsa made with chopped mango, red onion, jalapeño, and cilantro. The sweet heat pairs perfectly with the honey harissa chicken.
  • Roasted Veggie Medley
    Include roasted vegetables such as sweet potatoes, Brussels sprouts, and red peppers. The caramelized veggies add depth of flavor and texture to balance the spicy chicken.
  • Crunchy Slaw & Almonds
    Add a crunchy slaw made from shredded cabbage, carrots, and a sesame dressing. Top with toasted almonds or sesame seeds for added crunch and nuttiness.
  • Grilled Pineapple & Cilantro Rice
    Serve the chicken on a bed of cilantro-lime rice and top with grilled pineapple slices. The tropical sweetness of the pineapple complements the bold flavors of the chicken.
  • Pomegranate & Feta
    Sprinkle fresh pomegranate seeds and crumbled feta cheese over the chicken for a burst of sweetness and a creamy, tangy contrast.
  • Lemon Tahini Dressing
    Drizzle a zesty lemon tahini dressing over the bowl to add a creamy, nutty flavor that complements the honey harissa chicken’s heat.
  • Shakshuka-Inspired
    Serve the chicken over a base of quinoa or couscous and top with a poached egg. The runny yolk adds richness and mimics the sauce from a shakshuka dish.
  • Charred Corn & Black Bean
    Add charred corn, black beans, and a handful of chopped cilantro. The sweetness of the corn and the heartiness of the beans make the dish more filling and satisfying.

Freezing and Storage

  • Storage: Store any leftovers in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
  • Reheating: Reheat the chicken and grain base in the microwave or on the stove over low heat. Store the fresh veggies and dressing separately to keep them fresh.
  • Freezing: Not recommended for this dish due to the freshness of the ingredients, but you can freeze the chicken separately.

Special Equipment

  • Grill Pan or Skillet: For cooking the chicken.
  • Rice Cooker: For cooking quinoa, couscous, or rice (if using).
  • Small Whisk: For making the tahini dressing.

FAQ Section

  1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
    Yes, chicken thighs are a great substitute for breasts and will provide a juicier, more flavorful result.
  2. How can I adjust the spice level?
    Add more harissa paste or a pinch of cayenne pepper for extra heat. Alternatively, reduce the harissa paste for a milder version.
  3. Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
    Yes, you can marinate the chicken and prepare the grain base ahead of time. Assemble the bowls just before serving to keep everything fresh.
  4. Can I use a different grain?
    Absolutely! Feel free to swap quinoa for couscous, brown rice, or even farro based on your preferences.

Conclusion

These CAVA Honey Harissa Chicken Bowls are a healthy, delicious, and satisfying meal that bring the perfect balance of sweet and spicy flavors. The honey harissa-marinated chicken is tender and packed with flavor, creating a perfect pairing with the fresh veggies and grains. This bowl is customizable, allowing you to choose your preferred grains, such as rice or quinoa, to suit your taste and dietary preferences.

Whether you’re meal prepping or looking for a quick and flavorful dinner, this dish is sure to impress. The vibrant, zesty flavors combined with the heartiness of the grains and the freshness of the veggies create a meal that’s both filling and nourishing. The honey harissa dressing adds a delightful kick, making each bite more exciting.

From its bold flavors to its balanced ingredients, CAVA Honey Harissa Chicken Bowls are a great choice for any occasion. Easy to make, customizable, and packed with nutrition, this recipe will quickly become a go-to favorite in your meal rotation.

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