Irresistible CAVA Honey Harissa Chicken Bowls Recipe

Imagine diving into a bowl filled with tender, juicy chicken, adorned with a luscious honey harissa sauce that dances on your taste buds. The aroma wafts through the air like a joyful serenade, promising an explosion of flavors in every bite. This CAVA Honey Harissa Chicken Bowl isn’t just food; it’s an experience that transforms ordinary dinners into extraordinary memories, evoking laughter and warmth around the table.

Picture this: a cozy gathering with friends where everyone digs in, and suddenly, conversations pause as they relish the delightful flavors. You’ll find yourself reminiscing about that one unforgettable summer night when you first crafted this masterpiece. Whether it’s a casual weekday dinner or a lively weekend get-together, these bowls will elevate any occasion and leave your guests clamoring for seconds.

Ingredients for CAVA Honey Harissa Chicken Bowls

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: About 3-4 chicken breasts are ideal, but feel free to adjust based on your crowd size.
• Honey: Use good quality honey for sweetness that balances out the spice beautifully.
• Harissa Paste: This North African chili paste adds depth and warmth; choose mild or spicy based on your taste buds.
• Olive Oil: A splash of olive oil helps to keep the chicken moist while enhancing its flavor.
• Lemon Juice: Fresh lemon juice brightens up the dish and adds a zesty kick.
• Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning; don’t skimp on these flavor boosters!

For serving:

• Cooked Quinoa or Rice: A hearty base to soak up all those delicious flavors from the chicken.
• Your Favorite Veggies: Roasted or fresh veggies add color and crunch to your bowl.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make CAVA Honey Harissa Chicken Bowls

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

In a mixing bowl, combine honey, harissa paste, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Whisk until well blended. Add the chicken breasts to the bowl and coat them thoroughly in this sweet-spicy concoction. Cover and let marinate in the fridge for at least 30 minutes—this is crucial for flavor absorption!

Step 2: Preheat Your Cooking Device

If you’re using an oven, preheat it to 400°F (200°C). Alternatively, if you’re grilling outdoors (weather permitting), get that grill nice and hot!

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Place marinated chicken breasts in a greased baking dish or straight onto the grill. Bake in the oven for about 20-25 minutes or grill each side for about six minutes until cooked through (internal temperature should reach at least 165°F).

Step 4: Let It Rest

Once cooked, let your chicken rest for five minutes before slicing it—this keeps all those juicy flavors sealed inside.

Step 5: Assemble Your Bowls

Start with a generous scoop of quinoa or rice as your base. Top it with sliced honey harissa chicken and arrange your favorite veggies around it—a riot of colors always makes meals more appealing!

Step 6: Drizzle Extra Sauce

If you have leftover marinade (make sure it’s been cooked), drizzle some over your assembled bowls for that extra burst of flavor.

Transfer to plates and drizzle with sauce for the perfect finishing touch! Enjoy every bite of this culinary adventure.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by marinating your chicken in the honey harissa mixture to let those flavors soak in. While the chicken absorbs all that deliciousness, prepare your grains or sides. Sear the chicken first, then finish cooking it in the oven while you whip up your favorite veggies.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out the chicken for turkey or even beef if you’re feeling adventurous. Experiment with different vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers, and don’t hesitate to sprinkle some feta cheese on top for an extra zing.

Storing & Reheating

To store leftovers, place them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. For reheating, simply warm them in a skillet over low heat to retain moisture and flavor.

Sharing this dish at family gatherings always brings smiles. One time, my cousin declared it was “better than takeout,” which is pretty high praise coming from a self-proclaimed food critic!

FAQs:

What ingredients are in CAVA Honey Harissa Chicken Bowls?

CAVA Honey Harissa Chicken Bowls feature grilled chicken marinated in a flavorful honey harissa sauce. The dish includes fresh vegetables, such as cucumbers, tomatoes, and red onions, alongside a base of grains like quinoa or rice. Toppings often consist of creamy tzatziki or tahini sauce, providing a delightful contrast to the spiciness of the harissa. You can also add greens like arugula or spinach for extra crunch and nutrition. This combination creates a delicious and healthy meal that’s perfect for any occasion.

How do I prepare the honey harissa marinade?

To prepare the honey harissa marinade for your CAVA Honey Harissa Chicken Bowls, combine equal parts honey and harissa paste in a bowl. Whisk until smooth, then add olive oil and lemon juice for added flavor. Marinate your chicken pieces in this mixture for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Once marinated, grill or bake the chicken until fully cooked. This marinade provides a sweet-spicy kick that elevates your chicken bowls to the next level.

Can I make CAVA Honey Harissa Chicken Bowls vegetarian?

Absolutely! To create vegetarian CAVA Honey Harissa Bowls, substitute grilled chicken with roasted vegetables or chickpeas. You can use a mix of seasonal vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and eggplant. Toss them in the honey harissa marinade before roasting for a burst of flavor. Additionally, you can use plant-based protein sources such as tofu or tempeh for added texture. Serve these ingredients over your choice of grains with fresh toppings for a satisfying vegetarian meal.

How can I customize my CAVA Honey Harissa Chicken Bowl?

Customizing your CAVA Honey Harissa Chicken Bowl is easy! Start by selecting your base—choose from quinoa, rice, or leafy greens. Next, layer on your choice of proteins: grilled chicken, roasted veggies, or chickpeas work well. Add fresh toppings like cucumbers, olives, and feta cheese for extra flavor and texture. Don’t forget to drizzle on extra sauces such as tahini or tzatziki to enhance taste even further. Mix and match ingredients based on your preferences for a unique bowl every time!

Conclusion for CAVA Honey Harissa Chicken Bowls:

CAVA Honey Harissa Chicken Bowls are a vibrant and flavorful dish that’s easy to prepare at home. With grilled chicken marinated in a spicy-sweet honey harissa sauce and topped with fresh vegetables and grains, this recipe offers both taste and nutrition. Whether you choose to make it vegetarian-friendly or stick with traditional meat options, each bowl is customizable to suit personal preferences. Enjoy experimenting with various ingredients while creating this delightful meal that brings together bold flavors in every bite!

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CAVA Honey Harissa Chicken Bowls

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• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 55 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

CAVA Honey Harissa Chicken Bowls are a delightful fusion of flavors that transform any meal into a vibrant feast. Juicy chicken, marinated in a sweet and spicy honey harissa sauce, pairs perfectly with fresh vegetables and hearty grains like quinoa or rice. This dish is not only delicious but also visually stunning, making it ideal for both casual dinners and special gatherings. Elevate your dining experience with these colorful bowls that promise to impress family and friends alike.

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Ingredients

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• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
• 1/4 cup honey
• 3 tbsp harissa paste
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 2 cups cooked quinoa or rice
• 2 cups mixed fresh vegetables (cucumbers, tomatoes, bell peppers)

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Instructions

1. 1. Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, whisk together honey, harissa paste, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Add chicken breasts and coat well. Cover and marinate in the fridge for at least 30 minutes.
2. 2. Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) or prepare your grill.
3. 3. Cook the Chicken: Bake for 20-25 minutes or grill for about six minutes per side until cooked through (internal temperature of at least 165°F).
4. 4. Let It Rest: Allow the chicken to rest for five minutes before slicing.
5. 5. Assemble Bowls: Start with quinoa or rice as the base. Top with sliced chicken and arrange vegetables around it.
6. 6. Drizzle Extra Sauce: If you have leftover marinade that’s been cooked, drizzle it over the bowls before serving.

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Baking/Grilling
• Cuisine: North African

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 bowl (approx. 400g)
• Calories: 540
• Sugar: 24g
• Sodium: 860mg
• Fat: 22g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 18g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 62g
• Fiber: 7g
• Protein: 34g
• Cholesterol: 85mg