CAVA Honey Harissa Chicken Recipe

If you’re looking for a dish that’s bursting with flavor and perfect for any occasion, the CAVA Honey Harissa Chicken Recipe is just what you need! This recipe has quickly become a favorite in my kitchen. The tender chicken marinated in a sweet and spicy honey harissa sauce brings together the warmth of Mediterranean flavors. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a cozy family gathering, this dish never fails to impress.

And let me tell you, it’s not just about the chicken. Paired with fresh salad greens, creamy avocado, and warm pita bread, each bite is a delightful experience. Plus, it’s easy to prepare and great for meal prep—making it a win-win for deliciousness and convenience!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can have this flavorful dish ready to go.
• Family-Friendly Appeal: Even the pickiest eaters will love the sweet and spicy flavor profile!
• Meal Prep Friendly: Make it ahead of time for lunches or dinners throughout the week—it’s perfect for leftovers.
• Customizable Toppings: Add your favorite ingredients to make each bowl unique!
• Fresh Mediterranean Flavors: Enjoy a taste of the Mediterranean right from your kitchen!

Ingredients You’ll Need

This CAVA Honey Harissa Chicken recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients that are sure to please everyone at the table. Gather these fresh items to get started on your culinary adventure!

For the Chicken Marinade

• 1 1/2 lbs boneless skinless chicken thighs
• 4 Tablespoons olive oil (divided)
• 2 Tablespoons harissa paste (Note 1)
• 1 Tablespoon honey
• Juice from 1/2 a lemon
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

For the Vinaigrette

• 1/4 cup good quality extra virgin olive oil
• 2 Tablespoons harissa paste (adjust to desired spice level)
• 2 Tablespoons lemon juice (from 1/2 lemon)
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 2 garlic cloves (minced or 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder)
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt

For Serving

• 2 cups cooked basmati rice (1 cup uncooked) (Note 2)
• Mixed salad greens + olive oil to taste
• 1 ripe avocado (sliced)
• Pickled red onions to taste (homemade or store-bought)
• Crumbled feta or Crazy feta to taste (Note 3)
• Marinated cucumbers and tomatoes (store-bought or homemade) (Note 4)
• Hummus to taste
• Pita chips (pita bread or naan for serving)

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! You can easily adjust it based on your tastes and available ingredients.

• Swap the protein: Try using chicken breasts instead of thighs for a leaner option.
• Make it vegetarian: Substitute grilled vegetables or chickpeas for the chicken—still packed with flavor!
• Change up the grains: Serve over quinoa or couscous instead of basmati rice for a different texture.
• Add your favorite toppings: Get creative with toppings like olives, roasted red peppers, or even tahini sauce!

How to Make CAVA Honey Harissa Chicken Recipe

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Start by marinating your chicken! Toss the chicken in a medium bowl or large plastic bag with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, harissa paste, honey, lemon juice, minced garlic, kosher salt, and black pepper. Cover and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes—or overnight if you can plan ahead. This step is crucial as it infuses all those wonderful flavors into the chicken.

Step 2: Prep the Toppings

While your chicken marinates, take this time to prepare all your toppings! Cook your basmati rice according to package directions and set aside. Toss mixed salad greens with a light drizzle of olive oil. Feel free to chop up any additional toppings like avocado or pickled onions so everything is ready when you’re assembling your bowls.

Step 3: Make the Vinaigrette

Next up is making that delicious vinaigrette! In a medium jar, combine all vinaigrette ingredients: extra virgin olive oil, harissa paste, lemon juice, onion powder, minced garlic, and kosher salt. Whisk together until well combined or close the lid and shake vigorously. Pop this into the fridge while you cook your chicken; chilling allows those flavors to meld nicely.

Step 4: Cook the Chicken

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, drizzle in 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Once hot and shimmering, add your marinated chicken thighs smooth side down. Sear without moving them until they are deeply golden-brown—about 5-6 minutes. Flip them over and cook for another 4-5 minutes until they reach an internal temperature of about 160°F (aiming for 165°F as they rest). Transfer them onto a cutting board and let them rest before slicing.

Step 5: Assemble Your Bowls

Now comes my favorite part—assembling those beautiful bowls! Start by adding greens as your base followed by fluffy basmati rice. Then layer on all those delicious toppings you’ve prepped along with chopped chicken pieces on top. Drizzle generously with your prepared vinaigrette and serve warm with pita bread on the side.

Enjoy every mouthful of this delightful CAVA Honey Harissa Chicken Recipe! It’s sure to bring joy to your table.

Pro Tips for Making CAVA Honey Harissa Chicken Recipe

With these handy tips, you’ll be well on your way to creating a mouthwatering CAVA bowl that your family and friends will rave about!

• Marinate Longer: Letting the chicken marinate overnight allows the flavors to penetrate deeper, resulting in a juicier and more flavorful dish.

• Adjust Spice Levels: If you’re sensitive to heat, start with less harissa paste and gradually add more to suit your taste. This way, you can enjoy the dish without overwhelming your palate.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh vegetables and herbs for toppings. They not only enhance the flavor but also add a vibrant color and crunch to your bowls.

• Perfectly Cooked Chicken: Use a meat thermometer to ensure your chicken reaches 165°F. This guarantees that it’s cooked through while remaining juicy and tender.

• Prep Ahead: Make your toppings and vinaigrette in advance. This saves time on busy weeknights and makes assembling the bowls a breeze!

How to Serve CAVA Honey Harissa Chicken Recipe

Serving this delightful dish is all about presentation! You want to create a colorful and inviting bowl that showcases all its delicious components.

Garnishes

• Fresh herbs: Chopped parsley or cilantro adds a burst of freshness that complements the rich flavors of the chicken.

• Lemon wedges: A squeeze of fresh lemon just before serving brightens up the entire dish and enhances all the flavors beautifully.

Side Dishes

• Tzatziki Sauce: This creamy, refreshing yogurt-based sauce pairs perfectly with the spiciness of the chicken, adding a cool contrast.

• Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, or carrots make a healthy side that adds depth and color to your meal.

• Mediterranean Quinoa Salad: A light salad made with quinoa, cucumbers, tomatoes, olives, and a zesty dressing complements the flavors of the chicken without overwhelming them.

• Chickpea Salad: Tossed with lemon juice, olive oil, and fresh herbs, this protein-packed salad not only adds texture but also rounds out your meal nicely.

Enjoy creating your own version of this delicious CAVA Honey Harissa Chicken Recipe! Each bite is sure to transport you straight to the Mediterranean.

Make Ahead and Storage

This CAVA Honey Harissa Chicken recipe is perfect for meal prep, making it easy to enjoy healthy, flavorful meals throughout the week. With its vibrant flavors and satisfying ingredients, you can prepare it in advance and store it for quick lunches or dinners.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the chicken and toppings to cool completely before storing.
• Place the chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Store cooked rice separately in a sealed container for freshness.
• Keep salad greens and vinaigrette separate to prevent sogginess.

Freezing

• Let the marinated chicken cool completely before freezing.
• Place the marinated chicken in a freezer-safe bag or container; it can be frozen for up to 3 months.
• Cooked rice can also be frozen in individual portions for easy use later.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen chicken overnight in the refrigerator before cooking.
• Reheat cooked chicken in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through (about 5-7 minutes).
• For rice, add a splash of water and microwave or steam to reheat without drying out.

FAQs

Here are some common questions people have about the CAVA Honey Harissa Chicken Recipe.

Can I adjust the spice level of the CAVA Honey Harissa Chicken Recipe?

Absolutely! You can easily modify the amount of harissa paste used in this recipe. Start with less if you prefer a milder flavor and gradually increase as desired.

What can I use instead of basmati rice in the CAVA Honey Harissa Chicken Recipe?

If you’re looking for alternatives, quinoa or brown rice work wonderfully as substitutes for basmati rice. They both complement the dish while adding unique flavors and textures.

How long does CAVA Honey Harissa Chicken last in the fridge?

When stored properly, leftovers from your CAVA Honey Harissa Chicken can be kept in the fridge for up to four days. Just remember to keep everything separate until you’re ready to enjoy!

Final Thoughts

I hope you’re as excited about making this CAVA Honey Harissa Chicken recipe as I am! It’s not just delicious but also incredibly adaptable, perfect for any meal prep enthusiast. Enjoy creating your own vibrant bowls filled with wholesome goodness, and don’t hesitate to try different toppings! Happy cooking!