CAVA Honey Harissa Chicken Bowls

Introduction

CAVA Honey Harissa Chicken Bowls are a delightful combination of bold flavors, perfect for those who crave something fresh yet full of zest. The marinated chicken is tender and juicy, with the honey harissa sauce adding a sweet yet spicy kick that is irresistible. Each bite is a balance of smoky, savory, and tangy notes, paired with the crispness of fresh veggies and the heartiness of grains like rice or couscous. The whole dish comes together in a vibrant bowl that’s as colorful as it is flavorful.

This bowl has quickly become one of my go-to meals. I first tried it on a busy weeknight when I needed something satisfying but also healthy, and it didn’t disappoint. The combination of the spicy-sweet harissa with the coolness of cucumbers, tomatoes, and pickled onions creates an amazing contrast in flavors and textures. The chicken is always the star, with the honey harissa glaze making each piece incredibly flavorful. The addition of creamy hummus or a drizzle of tahini is the perfect touch to round out the dish.

CAVA Honey Harissa Chicken Bowls are perfect for any time you want a meal that’s packed with flavor but still feels light and fresh. Whether for a quick lunch, dinner, or meal prep, this bowl hits all the right notes. It’s a great way to get your protein and veggies while enjoying a vibrant, flavorful meal that’s sure to satisfy your cravings. If you’re after something that’s both healthy and indulgent, this bowl is the one to make!

Perfect for:

• Weeknight dinners
• Meal prep for the week
• Mediterranean food lovers
• Healthy, balanced meals
• A vibrant, flavorful bowl experience

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Here’s why CAVA Honey Harissa Chicken Bowls will become your new favorite:

• Flavor Explosion: The sweetness of honey and the spice of harissa create a mouthwatering glaze that perfectly complements the grilled chicken.
• Healthy and Balanced: Packed with lean protein, fiber, and fresh veggies, this bowl is as nutritious as it is delicious.
• Quick and Easy: Ready in under 40 minutes, making it ideal for a busy weeknight meal.
• Customizable: Tailor the bowl to your tastes with your choice of grains, vegetables, and toppings.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Easily pack and store individual servings for a week of healthy lunches or dinners.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20 minutes
• Servings: 4 servings
• Calories per serving: Approximately 500-550 calories
• Key Nutrients: Protein: 35g, Carbs: 45g, Fat: 18g

Ingredients

Here’s what you need to make CAVA Honey Harissa Chicken Bowls:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 2 tablespoons harissa paste
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 cups cooked quinoa or couscous
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cucumber, diced
• 1 cup red cabbage, shredded
• ½ cup feta cheese, crumbled
• ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
• 1 lemon, cut into wedges (optional, for garnish)

Ingredient Highlights

• Chicken Breasts: Lean and versatile, chicken breasts provide a great source of protein and take on the honey harissa glaze beautifully.
• Harissa Paste: A key ingredient, harissa adds deep, smoky heat, bringing a Mediterranean flair to the dish.
• Honey: Balances the spiciness of the harissa with a touch of sweetness, creating a perfect glaze for the chicken.
• Quinoa or Couscous: Both are hearty, nutritious bases that soak up the delicious sauce and pair well with the chicken and veggies.
• Fresh Veggies: Cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and red cabbage bring color, crunch, and freshness to the bowl.
• Feta Cheese: Adds creaminess and a tangy contrast to the bold flavors in the chicken and sauce.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Here’s how to make CAVA Honey Harissa Chicken Bowls:

Prepare the Chicken:

1. Make the Marinade: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, honey, harissa paste, garlic powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper until well combined.
2. Marinate the Chicken: Coat the chicken breasts with the honey harissa marinade, ensuring they are fully covered. Let them marinate for at least 15 minutes (or up to 2 hours if you have more time).

Cook the Chicken:

3. Grill or Sear the Chicken: Heat a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken breasts for 6-7 minutes per side, or until fully cooked and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Remove from heat and let them rest for a few minutes.
4. Slice the Chicken: Once rested, slice the chicken into strips for easy serving.

Assemble the Bowls:

5. Prepare the Grains: Cook quinoa or couscous according to package instructions.
6. Assemble the Bowls: Divide the cooked grains between 4 bowls. Top with sliced chicken, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red cabbage, and crumbled feta cheese.
7. Garnish and Serve: Drizzle any remaining honey harissa glaze over the top. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges, if desired.

How to Serve CAVA Honey Harissa Chicken Bowls

CAVA Honey Harissa Chicken Bowls can be served in different ways to suit your preferences:

• Family-Style: Serve all the components in a large bowl for everyone to assemble their own servings.
• Individually Plated: Plate each serving in a bowl with the grains, chicken, veggies, and toppings for a more polished presentation.
• With Side Dishes: Pair with a light Mediterranean salad, pita bread, or roasted vegetables for a more complete meal.
• For Meal Prep: Store the components separately in airtight containers for an easy grab-and-go meal throughout the week.

Additional Tips CAVA Honey Harissa Chicken Bowls

Follow these tips for the best CAVA Honey Harissa Chicken Bowls:

• Use Fresh Harissa Paste: Fresh harissa paste is key for an authentic and flavorful glaze, but if you’re in a pinch, store-bought versions will work too.
• Adjust the Spice: If you prefer a milder dish, use less harissa or opt for a milder harissa variety.
• Grill the Chicken: If possible, grilling the chicken will add extra smoky flavor to the dish.
• Add More Veggies: Feel free to incorporate other vegetables like roasted eggplant, bell peppers, or olives for added variety.
• Make Extra Sauce: Double the honey harissa glaze and use it as a dipping sauce or drizzle on other dishes.

Recipe Variations for CAVA Honey Harissa Chicken Bowls

Here are 10 variations to customize your CAVA Honey Harissa Chicken Bowls:

1. Spicy Chicken Bowls: Add extra cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the marinade for an even spicier kick.
2. Vegan Version: Substitute the chicken with chickpeas or grilled tofu for a plant-based alternative.
3. Roasted Chicken Bowls: Roast the chicken in the oven instead of grilling it for a different flavor profile.
4. Avocado Topping: Add sliced avocado for a creamy, rich texture.
5. Cucumber Yogurt Sauce: Pair the bowls with a cool, tangy cucumber yogurt sauce to balance the heat.
6. Sweet Potato Bowls: Add roasted sweet potatoes to the bowl for extra fiber and sweetness.
7. Lamb Version: Use lamb chops or grilled lamb for a twist on the classic chicken version.
8. Add Roasted Red Peppers: Roast bell peppers and add them to the bowls for a smoky and sweet flavor.
9. Tahini Sauce Drizzle: Drizzle tahini sauce over the bowl for a creamy, nutty contrast.
10. Fried Shallots: Top with crispy fried shallots for extra crunch and flavor.

Freezing and Storage for CAVA Honey Harissa Chicken Bowls

• Freezing: The components of this dish (except for the veggies and grains) can be frozen for up to 2 months. Store the chicken and honey harissa sauce in a freezer-safe bag or container. When ready to eat, thaw in the fridge and reheat in the oven or skillet.
• Storage: Refrigerate leftovers in airtight containers for up to 3 days. Reheat the chicken and veggies on the stovetop or in the microwave, but store the grains separately to keep them from becoming soggy.

Special Equipment for CAVA Honey Harissa Chicken Bowls

Here are some items that make preparing CAVA Honey Harissa Chicken Bowls easier:

1. Grill Pan or Skillet: Ideal for cooking the chicken to perfection with a nice sear.
2. Whisk: Perfect for mixing the marinade evenly.
3. Sharp Knife: To slice the chicken and chop the veggies.
4. Cutting Board: A sturdy board for prepping vegetables and chicken.
5. Measuring Spoons: Ensure the correct balance of spices and ingredients for the marinade.
6. Grater: For grating cheese or zesting the lemon.
7. Serving Bowls: Make the presentation of the bowls more attractive with wide, shallow bowls.
8. Tongs: Useful for flipping the chicken and serving the bowl components.
9. Pasta Strainer: Ideal for draining the quinoa or couscous quickly.
10. Storage Containers: Great for meal prepping and storing leftovers.

FAQ Section for CAVA Honey Harissa Chicken Bowls

1. Can I use a different grain for this recipe?
   Yes, farro, rice, or barley would be great alternatives to quinoa or couscous.
2. What can I substitute for harissa paste?
   You can substitute with sriracha or a spicy tomato paste, although it won’t have the same depth of flavor.
3. Can I grill the chicken ahead of time?
   Yes, grilling the chicken ahead of time works well for meal prep. Just store the cooked chicken in the fridge and slice when ready to serve.
4. How can I make this dish spicier?
   Add more harissa paste, or include additional chili flakes, jalapeños, or cayenne pepper in the marinade.
5. Can I use another protein instead of chicken?
   Absolutely! You can use grilled lamb, turkey, or even shrimp as a substitute for chicken.
6. What’s the best way to store leftovers?
   Store the components separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days.
7. Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
   Yes! Try using grilled tofu, roasted chickpeas, or falafel as the protein instead of chicken.
8. How do I prevent the chicken from being dry?
   Marinate the chicken for at least 15 minutes, and make sure not to overcook it—internal temperature should reach 165°F.
9. Can I make this dish gluten-free?
   Yes, simply use quinoa instead of couscous, and check that any store-bought ingredients (like harissa) are gluten-free.
10. What should I serve with this dish?
    A light Mediterranean salad, hummus, or roasted vegetables pair wonderfully with these bowls.

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Conclusion

CAVA Honey Harissa Chicken Bowls are the perfect fusion of bold flavors and wholesome ingredients, offering a satisfying meal for any time of day. The tender, juicy chicken, marinated in a tangy honey harissa sauce, brings a delightful balance of heat and sweetness, perfectly complemented by the fresh and vibrant vegetables. Paired with fluffy rice, crisp greens, and a generous drizzle of creamy dressing, every bite is a harmonious blend of textures and tastes.

What makes this dish stand out is its versatility—you can easily swap in different proteins or veggies to suit your preferences, creating a personalized bowl that’s as nourishing as it is delicious. Whether you’re enjoying a quick lunch, preparing a dinner for the family, or packing a meal for the week ahead, CAVA Honey Harissa Chicken Bowls will quickly become a go-to favorite. I’m sure you’ll love the way the flavors come together, making each bowl a unique and memorable experience. Be sure to share your versions on social media—I can’t wait to see how you put your spin on this recipe! Enjoy every flavorful bite!