CAVA Honey Harissa Chicken Bowls

There’s something about the first bite of a CAVA honey harissa chicken bowl that feels like a warm breeze off the Mediterranean Sea. The moment the spiced chicken hits your tongue, followed by the cooling crunch of cucumbers and the creamy drizzle of lemon-tahini dressing, it’s like being transported to a sun-drenched market in coastal Greece or a bustling café in Beirut.

I first encountered this bowl on a chilly evening after a long day, seeking something wholesome yet deeply satisfying. A friend recommended a visit to CAVA, and I skeptically ordered their honey harissa chicken bowl. One bite later, I understood the hype. The sweet heat from the harissa and honey marinade sang with flavor, the charred chicken was unbelievably tender, and the combination of fresh veggies, hearty grains, and tangy sauce created the perfect harmony.

What I didn’t expect was how easily this bowl translated to my own kitchen. It became a regular in my weekly rotation—great for meal prep, customizable to the mood, and always satisfying. Over time, I began tweaking the recipe to make it even more flavorful, vibrant, and adaptable for home cooks of all skill levels.

Whether you’re a longtime fan of Mediterranean cooking or exploring it for the first time, this CAVA honey harissa chicken bowl is sure to bring a delicious spark to your table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Full of bold, balanced flavors: Sweet, smoky, spicy, and tangy all come together beautifully.
• Nutrient-packed: Full of lean protein, whole grains, and crisp veggies.
• Customizable: Swap grains, veggies, or even the protein depending on your preference.
• Meal prep perfection: Ideal for making ahead and enjoying all week.
• Inspired by a favorite takeout but made better at home.

INGREDIENTS YOU’LL NEED:

For the Honey Harissa Chicken:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 3 tablespoons harissa paste
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Grain Base:

• 1 cup quinoa, rice, or couscous
• 2 cups water or broth

For the Salad Toppings:

• 1 cucumber, diced
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• ½ red onion, thinly sliced
• 1 cup mixed greens (optional)

For the Lemon-Tahini Dressing:

• 3 tablespoons tahini
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon honey
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Water to thin, as needed

HOW TO MAKE CAVA HONEY HARISSA CHICKEN BOWLS

STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS:

1. Marinate the Chicken

Start by mixing the harissa paste, honey, olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper in a medium bowl. This creates a vibrant, flavorful marinade that brings both warmth and depth to the chicken. Coat each chicken breast thoroughly, cover, and let it marinate for at least 10 minutes—though 2 hours in the fridge will yield the most intense flavor.

2. Cook the Grains

While the chicken is marinating, prepare your grain base. Bring 2 cups of water (or broth for extra flavor) to a boil in a saucepan. Stir in the quinoa, rice, or couscous and simmer according to the package directions. Once done, fluff with a fork and set aside.

3. Grill the Chicken

Heat a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat. Add a drizzle of olive oil and grill each piece of chicken for about 6–7 minutes per side. The sugar in the honey will caramelize beautifully, creating a delicious crust. Once cooked through, let the chicken rest before slicing into thin strips.

4. Make the Salad and Dressing

In a bowl, whisk together tahini, lemon juice, olive oil, and honey. Add a few tablespoons of water to thin the sauce to a pourable consistency. Season with salt and pepper. Then chop your vegetables: dice the cucumbers, halve the tomatoes, and thinly slice the red onion.

5. Assemble the Bowls

Start with a scoop of your cooked grains at the bottom. Top with fresh greens, sliced chicken, diced veggies, and a generous drizzle of the lemon-tahini dressing. For a little extra flair, you can also sprinkle on crumbled feta, chopped herbs, or a few olives.

HELPFUL TIPS

• Use lamb or beef instead: This bowl is just as delicious with grilled lamb or lean beef strips.
• Make it dairy-free: Skip any cheese add-ons and double-check your tahini is pure sesame.
• Roasted veggie boost: Roasted zucchini, carrots, or eggplant bring added depth.
• Prep in parts: Store each element separately in the fridge for a 5-minute lunch assembly.
• Spice control: Adjust the harissa quantity to control heat—start small if you’re sensitive.

DETAILS

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Grilling
• Cuisine: Mediterranean
• Diet: Gluten-Free (if using GF grains)

NOTES

• Use chicken thighs for a juicier option, but keep in mind they may need a little longer to cook.
• A squeeze of fresh lemon juice on top at the end brightens the whole bowl.
• If tahini thickens in the fridge, whisk it with warm water to loosen before serving.

NUTRITIONAL INFORMATION (per serving)

• Calories: ~470
• Protein: 34g
• Carbohydrates: 40g
• Fat: 18g
• Fiber: 6g

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Can I make this bowl vegetarian?
Yes! Swap the chicken for grilled tofu or chickpeas and use maple syrup instead of honey for a vegan option.

How long does the dressing last?
Store it in a jar in the fridge for up to 5 days. Just give it a good shake before using.

What’s the best grain to use?
Quinoa adds protein, rice keeps it classic, and couscous offers that light, fluffy texture. Use what you love or have on hand.

STORAGE INSTRUCTIONS

• Refrigerate: Keep all components in separate containers for up to 3 days.
• Freeze: Chicken can be frozen for up to 2 months. Grains freeze well too.
• Reheat: Warm chicken and grains before assembling. Keep veggies and dressing cold.

Related Recipes:

If you liked this recipe, you’ll definitely enjoy these other cheesy delights:

• Grilled Chicken & Broccoli Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce
• Japanese Katsu Bowls with Tonkatsu Sauce
• Chicken with Garlic Parmesan Rice

CONCLUSION

This CAVA honey harissa chicken bowl is more than just a healthy dinner option—it’s a sensory journey to the Mediterranean. From the caramelized edges of grilled chicken to the creamy zip of lemon-tahini dressing, every element has its place and purpose. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight meal or prepping lunch for the next few days, you’re in for something truly special.

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