Welcome to a delectable journey through Mediterranean flavors! Today, we’re diving into a delicious CAVA Honey Harissa Chicken Bowl Recipe that’s perfect for lunch or dinner. This dish blends sweet, spicy, and tangy flavors with tender chicken, fresh greens, and warm pita bread, all served over a bed of basmati rice. You’ll love how easy it is to prepare this recipe, making it a top choice for meal preps and busy weeknights.
Introduction: Discover the Comfort of Mediterranean Flavors
If you’re a fan of CAVA’s menu or Mediterranean cuisine, then this homemade CAVA Honey Harissa Chicken Bowl is a must-try! With roots in North African and Mediterranean cooking, harissa adds a unique smoky spice to this dish, balanced perfectly by honey’s sweetness. Combined with fresh salad greens, creamy feta, and crunchy pita chips, this bowl brings together a harmony of textures and flavors. Plus, it’s versatile enough to cater to various dietary needs, making it a perfect addition to any healthy meal plan.
For those interested in exploring similar flavor profiles, be sure to check out these mouthwatering recipes: Ultimate Cowboy Casserole with Cornbread and Sausage Balls with Red Lobster Mix.
Ingredients for Honey Harissa Chicken Bowl
Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this delicious Mediterranean-inspired bowl:
Honey Harissa Chicken Thighs:
- 1 1/2 lbs boneless skinless chicken thighs
- 4 Tablespoons olive oil (divided)
- 2 Tablespoons Harissa paste (adjust based on your preferred spice level)
- 1 Tablespoon honey
- Juice from 1/2 a lemon
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Hot Harissa Vinaigrette:
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 2 Tablespoons Harissa paste
- 2 Tablespoons lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
Bowl and Toppings:
- 2 cups Cooked Basmati rice (1 cup uncooked)
- Mixed salad greens (tossed with olive oil)
- 1 Ripe avocado, sliced
- Pickled red onions (homemade or store-bought)
- Crumbled feta (or Crazy feta)
- Marinated cucumbers and tomatoes (store-bought or homemade)
- Hummus (optional)
- Pita Chips, pita bread, or naan for serving
How to Make CAVA Honey Harissa Chicken Recipe – Step by Step
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
- In a large bowl, combine 2 tablespoons olive oil, harissa paste, honey, lemon juice, garlic, salt, and pepper.
- Add the chicken thighs, ensuring they are well-coated in the marinade.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (or overnight for a deeper flavor).
Step 2: Prep the Toppings
While the chicken is marinating, prepare your toppings:
- Cook the basmati rice according to package instructions.
- Slice the avocado, chop the tomatoes and cucumbers, and get the pickled onions ready.
- Drizzle a little olive oil over the mixed greens to keep them fresh.
Step 3: Make the Hot Harissa Vinaigrette
In a small jar, add the olive oil, harissa paste, lemon juice, onion powder, garlic, and salt. Shake well until fully combined. Place in the refrigerator to chill until ready to use.
Step 4: Cook the Chicken
- Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
- Once the oil is hot, add the chicken thighs smooth side down.
- Sear for 5-6 minutes until golden-brown, then flip and cook for an additional 4-5 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- Transfer to a cutting board and let the chicken rest before slicing.
Step 5: Assemble the Bowls
- In each bowl, add a generous base of mixed greens and basmati rice.
- Top with the sliced honey harissa chicken, avocado slices, pickled onions, marinated cucumbers, and feta.
- Drizzle with hot harissa vinaigrette and serve with pita chips or warm pita bread on the side.
Helpful Tips for Making the Best Honey Harissa Chicken Bowl
- Adjust Spice Levels: If you prefer a milder dish, reduce the amount of harissa paste or choose a mild version.
- Marination Time Matters: For the best flavor, marinate the chicken overnight.
- Make it Dairy-Free: Swap out the feta for a dairy-free alternative, or simply skip it altogether.
- Go Green: Use baby spinach, arugula, or kale as an alternative base for your greens.
Cooking Tips for the Best Honey Harissa Chicken Bowl
- Use a Cast-Iron Skillet: For a perfectly golden-brown sear, cook the chicken in a cast-iron skillet.
- Rest the Chicken: Allow the chicken to rest for at least 5 minutes before slicing to lock in the juices.
- High-Quality Ingredients: Opt for high-quality extra virgin olive oil and fresh herbs for the best results.
Serving Suggestions for CAVA Honey Harissa Chicken Bowl
- Pair with a Light White Wine: A crisp Sauvignon Blanc complements the bold harissa flavors.
- Serve with Hummus or Tzatziki: For added creaminess, serve a dollop of hummus or tzatziki on the side.
- Pita or Naan Bread: Warm pita or naan makes a great addition to scoop up all the delicious flavors.
Check out other Mediterranean-inspired recipes like Chicken Jerusalem or Grilled Tzatziki Chicken for more ideas.
Nutritional Information
Calories: 450 kcal
Fat: 30g
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 28g
Vitamin C: 22%
Iron: 15%
Nutritional Information for CAVA Honey Harissa Chicken Recipe may vary based on portion size and toppings.
Storage and Leftovers for CAVA Honey Harissa Chicken Recipe
- Store: Keep leftover chicken and toppings in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: To reheat, warm the chicken in a skillet over low heat until heated through. Add fresh greens just before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for CAVA Honey Harissa Chicken Recipe
1. Can I Use Chicken Breasts Instead of Thighs?
Yes, chicken breasts can be used, but they may require shorter cooking times to avoid drying out.
2. What’s a Good Substitute for Harissa Paste?
You can substitute harissa with a mix of sriracha and a pinch of smoked paprika for a similar flavor.
3. Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Prepare the chicken and toppings up to 1 day in advance, storing them separately to maintain freshness.
4. How Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
Swap the chicken for roasted chickpeas or grilled halloumi cheese for a vegetarian-friendly version.
Related Recipes for Chicken Lovers
- Chicken Jerusalem – A Culinary Masterpiece
: Discover the rich flavors of this classic dish, perfect for dinner parties.
- Tzatziki Chicken Salad – Fresh, Healthy, and Delicious
: A light and refreshing salad option with Greek-inspired flavors.
Conclusion
I hope you enjoy making and sharing this delicious CAVA Honey Harissa Chicken Bowl Recipe! Feel free to experiment with the toppings and sauces to create your perfect bowl. Let us know your favorite variations in the comments below, and don’t forget to share your creations!
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CAVA Honey Harissa Chicken Bowl – Easy Mediterranean Recipe
Description
Welcome to a delectable journey through Mediterranean flavors! Today, we’re diving into a delicious CAVA Honey Harissa Chicken Bowl Recipe that’s perfect for lunch or dinner. This dish blends sweet, spicy, and tangy flavors with tender chicken, fresh greens, and warm pita bread, all served over a bed of basmati rice. You’ll love how easy it is to prepare this recipe, making it a top choice for meal preps and busy weeknights.
Ingredients
Honey Harissa Chicken Thighs:
- 1 1/2 lbs boneless skinless chicken thighs
- 4 Tablespoons olive oil (divided)
- 2 Tablespoons Harissa paste (adjust based on your preferred spice level)
- 1 Tablespoon honey
- Juice from 1/2 a lemon
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Hot Harissa Vinaigrette:
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 2 Tablespoons Harissa paste
- 2 Tablespoons lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
Bowl and Toppings:
- 2 cups Cooked Basmati rice (1 cup uncooked)
- Mixed salad greens (tossed with olive oil)
- 1 Ripe avocado, sliced
- Pickled red onions (homemade or store-bought)
- Crumbled feta (or Crazy feta)
- Marinated cucumbers and tomatoes (store-bought or homemade)
- Hummus (optional)
- Pita Chips, pita bread, or naan for serving
Instructions
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
- In a large bowl, combine 2 tablespoons olive oil, harissa paste, honey, lemon juice, garlic, salt, and pepper.
- Add the chicken thighs, ensuring they are well-coated in the marinade.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (or overnight for a deeper flavor).
Step 2: Prep the Toppings
While the chicken is marinating, prepare your toppings:
- Cook the basmati rice according to package instructions.
- Slice the avocado, chop the tomatoes and cucumbers, and get the pickled onions ready.
- Drizzle a little olive oil over the mixed greens to keep them fresh.
Step 3: Make the Hot Harissa Vinaigrette
In a small jar, add the olive oil, harissa paste, lemon juice, onion powder, garlic, and salt. Shake well until fully combined. Place in the refrigerator to chill until ready to use.
Step 4: Cook the Chicken
- Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
- Once the oil is hot, add the chicken thighs smooth side down.
- Sear for 5-6 minutes until golden-brown, then flip and cook for an additional 4-5 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- Transfer to a cutting board and let the chicken rest before slicing.
Step 5: Assemble the Bowls
- In each bowl, add a generous base of mixed greens and basmati rice.
- Top with the sliced honey harissa chicken, avocado slices, pickled onions, marinated cucumbers, and feta.
- Drizzle with hot harissa vinaigrette and serve with pita chips or warm pita bread on the side.
Equipment
2Pcs Heart Shape Cake Pans, Aluminum Heart Cake Mold, Reusable 10 inch
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Kids Chill Leak-Proof Lunch Box – Included Reusable Ice Pack Keeps Food Cold
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- Adjust Spice Levels: If you prefer a milder dish, reduce the amount of harissa paste or choose a mild version.
- Marination Time Matters: For the best flavor, marinate the chicken overnight.
- Make it Dairy-Free: Swap out the feta for a dairy-free alternative, or simply skip it altogether.
- Go Green: Use baby spinach, arugula, or kale as an alternative base for your greens.
