Enjoy Flavorful CAVA Honey Harissa Chicken Bowls in 30 Minutes!

Get ready to elevate your weeknight meals with the irresistible CAVA Honey Harissa Chicken Bowls! This dish is a delightful fusion of bold Middle Eastern flavors and the comforting goodness of a well-balanced bowl. The tender chicken thighs, coated in a delectable honey harissa marinade, are the star of the show, complemented by a rainbow of fresh toppings that make this meal both visually stunning and utterly satisfying.

Not only are these CAVA Honey Harissa Chicken Bowls bursting with flavor, but they’re also a nutritious powerhouse. Loaded with lean protein, healthy fats, complex carbs, and an array of vitamins and minerals, this dish is a meal prep dream come true. Whether you’re seeking a quick and easy weeknight dinner or a nourishing lunch option, these bowls are sure to become a new favorite in your culinary repertoire.

Table of Contents

Ingredient Breakdown: Elevating Every Bite

The key to the irresistible flavor of the CAVA Honey Harissa Chicken Bowls lies in the carefully selected ingredients. Let’s take a closer look at the components that make this dish truly exceptional.

Honey Harissa Chicken Thighs

• 1 1/2 lbs boneless skinless chicken thighs – Chicken thighs are the perfect choice for this recipe, as they stay tender and juicy even after cooking.
• 4 Tablespoons olive oil, divided – The olive oil helps the marinade cling to the chicken and adds a rich, savory note.
• 2 Tablespoons Harissa paste – This North African spice blend provides a bold, smoky, and slightly spicy punch to the marinade.
• 1 Tablespoon honey – The honey balances the heat of the Harissa and adds a touch of sweetness to the chicken.
• Juice from 1/2 a lemon – The lemon juice brightens the flavors and helps tenderize the chicken.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced – Garlic is a must-have ingredient, adding depth and savory notes to the marinade.
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt – Seasoning the chicken with salt enhances the overall flavor profile.
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper – A dash of black pepper provides a subtle heat and aroma.

Hot Harissa Vinaigrette

• 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil – The vinaigrette uses a high-quality olive oil to create a luxurious texture.
• 2 Tablespoons Harissa paste – More of the bold Harissa flavor is incorporated into the vinaigrette.
• 2 Tablespoons lemon juice – The lemon juice adds a refreshing zing to balance the heat.
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder – Onion powder enhances the overall savory profile of the vinaigrette.
• 2 garlic cloves, minced – Fresh garlic lends its aromatic notes to the dressing.
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt – The salt ties all the flavors together seamlessly.

Bowl and Toppings

• 2 cups cooked Basmati rice – Fluffy Basmati rice serves as the perfect base for this flavorful bowl.
• Mixed salad greens + olive oil to taste – Fresh, nutrient-dense greens add texture and crunch.
• 1 ripe avocado, sliced – Creamy avocado contributes healthy fats and a luxurious mouthfeel.
• Pickled red onions to taste – Tangy, slightly sweet pickled onions provide a vibrant contrast.
• Crumbled feta or Crazy feta to taste – The salty, tangy feta cheese complements the other flavors beautifully.
• Marinated cucumbers and tomatoes to taste – Refreshing, juicy veggies add a welcomed brightness.
• Hummus to taste – Creamy hummus ties all the flavors together and adds protein.
• Pita chips, pita bread, or naan for serving – These versatile sides are perfect for scooping up every last bite.

Step-by-Step Instructions: Bringing It All Together

Prepare Chicken

In a bowl, mix 2 tablespoons of olive oil, Harissa paste, honey, lemon juice, garlic, salt, and pepper. Coat the chicken thighs in this flavorful marinade and let them sit for at least 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

Cook Chicken

Heat the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook the chicken for 5–7 minutes per side, or until it’s cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Remove the chicken from the heat and let it rest.

Make Vinaigrette

In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, Harissa paste, lemon juice, onion powder, garlic, and salt to create the Hot Harissa Vinaigrette.

Assemble Bowls

Divide the cooked Basmati rice among your serving bowls. Top each bowl with a generous portion of mixed salad greens, sliced avocado, pickled red onions, crumbled feta, marinated cucumbers and tomatoes, and a dollop of hummus. Finally, place the cooked chicken thighs on top.

Drizzle Vinaigrette

Drizzle the Hot Harissa Vinaigrette over the assembled bowls, ensuring every bite is infused with its bold and flavorful essence.

Serve

Serve the CAVA Honey Harissa Chicken Bowls with pita chips, pita bread, or naan on the side, allowing your guests to scoop up every last delicious morsel.

Flavor Variations and Substitutions

The beauty of the CAVA Honey Harissa Chicken Bowls lies in their versatility. Here are a few ways you can mix things up and customize the dish to your liking:

• Protein Swaps: Instead of chicken thighs, you can use chicken breasts, tofu, or even shrimp for a seafood twist.
• Grain Options: Try swapping the Basmati rice for quinoa, couscous, or cauliflower rice for a low-carb alternative.
• Spice Level Adjustments: Play with the amount of Harissa paste you use to adjust the heat level, depending on your preferences.
• Vegan and Vegetarian Adaptations: For a plant-based version, swap the chicken for your favorite protein-rich ingredient, such as roasted chickpeas or lentils.
• Seasonal Veggie Toppings: Explore different seasonal vegetables, like roasted sweet potatoes, grilled zucchini, or sautéed mushrooms, to add more color and nutrition to the bowls.

Nutritional Benefits: Nourishing Your Body and Soul

The CAVA Honey Harissa Chicken Bowls are a nutritional powerhouse, packed with a variety of beneficial ingredients. The chicken provides a lean source of protein to support muscle recovery and growth, while the avocado and olive oil contribute heart-healthy monounsaturated fats. The array of vegetables, such as the leafy greens, cucumbers, and tomatoes, deliver a wealth of vitamins, minerals, and fiber to promote overall well-being.

One of the key advantages of this dish is its satiating nature. The combination of protein, complex carbs, and healthy fats helps keep you feeling full and satisfied, making it an excellent choice for meal prepping or maintaining a balanced diet. Additionally, the anti-inflammatory properties of ingredients like Harissa paste and garlic can support overall immune function and reduce the risk of chronic diseases.

With a well-balanced macronutrient profile and a host of micronutrients, the CAVA Honey Harissa Chicken Bowls are a nutritional powerhouse that can easily be incorporated into your weekly meal rotation. Enjoy the vibrant flavors and the knowledge that you’re nourishing your body with every delicious bite.

Meal Prep and Storage Tips

One of the best things about the CAVA Honey Harissa Chicken Bowls is their meal prep-friendly nature. Here are some tips to make the most of this convenient and flavorful dish:

• Prep Ahead: The chicken can be marinated in advance, and the vinaigrette can be made a few days prior, making assembly a breeze on busy weeknights.
• Storage: Cooked chicken and assembled bowls can be stored separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, ensuring the freshness and texture are maintained.
• Reheating: When ready to enjoy, simply reheat the chicken in a skillet or the microwave, and gently mix the bowl ingredients together. The vinaigrette can be drizzled over the top just before serving.
• Vinaigrette Separation: To prevent the vinaigrette from separating, store it in a separate container and drizzle it over the bowls right before eating.

More Related Recipes You Might Enjoy

• Spicy Chickpea Bowls with Harissa
• Mediterranean Quinoa Salad with Feta
• Grilled Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce
• Roasted Vegetable Hummus Bowls

FAQs About CAVA Honey Harissa Chicken Bowls

What is Harissa paste? Harissa is a North African spice blend that typically contains a combination of chili peppers, garlic, spices, and olive oil. It provides a bold, smoky, and slightly spicy flavor profile to the chicken and vinaigrette in this recipe.

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs? Absolutely! While the recipe calls for chicken thighs, you can easily substitute chicken breasts if you prefer a leaner protein option. The cooking time may need to be adjusted slightly to ensure the chicken breasts don’t become dry.

How can I make this dish gluten-free? To make the CAVA Honey Harissa Chicken Bowls gluten-free, simply swap the pita bread, pita chips, or naan for gluten-free options, such as cauliflower or almond flour-based crackers or wraps.

What can I substitute for feta cheese? If you’re looking for a dairy-free or vegan alternative to feta, try crumbled tofu, diced avocado, or a sprinkle of nutritional yeast to achieve a similar creamy, tangy flavor profile.

How long can I store leftovers? The assembled CAVA Honey Harissa Chicken Bowls can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, making them an excellent choice for meal prepping. Just be sure to store the vinaigrette separately to maintain the freshness and texture of the dish.

Conclusion: Embrace the Vibrant Flavors of CAVA Honey Harissa Chicken Bowls

The CAVA Honey Harissa Chicken Bowls are a true delight for the senses, blending bold Middle Eastern flavors with the nourishing goodness of a well-balanced meal. From the tender, marinated chicken to the vibrant array of toppings, every bite is a celebration of texture and taste. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or treating yourself to a flavorful dinner, these bowls are sure to become a new staple in your culinary repertoire.

So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, fire up the stove, and get ready to experience the irresistible magic of the CAVA Honey Harissa Chicken Bowls. Savor each delectable morsel, and don’t forget to share your culinary creations with friends and family. Bon appétit!

Looking for more tasty ideas? Visit Elena’s Fast & Flavorful Recipes on Pinterest for a treasure trove of easy meals, comforting bakes, and fun kitchen inspiration!

Print