CAVA Honey Harissa Chicken: A Flavor-Packed Mediterranean Bowl Recipe

If you’re a fan of CAVA’s Honey Harissa Chicken, you’re in for a treat! This homemade version brings all the bold, smoky, and slightly sweet flavors of the beloved Mediterranean dish right to your kitchen. Perfect for meal prep, weeknight dinners, or impressing guests, this CAVA Honey Harissa Chicken bowl is packed with tender marinated chicken, aromatic basmati rice, fresh greens, and a spicy-sweet harissa vinaigrette.

In this  word guide, we’ll cover:
✅ Step-by-step instructions for making CAVA Honey Harissa Chicken at home
✅ Expert tips for perfecting the marinade and vinaigrette
✅ Customizable topping ideas to build your ideal bowl
✅ Nutritional insights and dietary adaptations
✅ Why this recipe rivals the original CAVA version

Let’s dive in!

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Why You’ll Love This CAVA Honey Harissa Chicken Recipe

Before we get into the details, here’s why this dish is a must-try:

🔥 Bold & Balanced Flavors – The honey harissa marinade delivers a perfect mix of spicy, smoky, and sweet.
🍗 Tender, Juicy Chicken – Thighs stay moist and flavorful, unlike dry breast meat.
🥗 Endless Customization – Load up your bowl with hummus, feta, pickled onions, and more.
⏱ Quick & Easy – Only 10 minutes of prep + 30 minutes marinating for maximum flavor.
🌱 Diet-Friendly – Easily adaptable for gluten-free, dairy-free, or low-carb diets.

Now, let’s break down the recipe.

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CAVA Honey Harissa Chicken Ingredients

For the Honey Harissa Chicken:

• 1 ½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs (thighs stay juicier than breasts)

• 4 Tbsp olive oil (divided, for marinating & cooking)

• 2 Tbsp harissa paste (adjust for spice level)

• 1 Tbsp honey (balances the heat)

• Juice of ½ lemon (brightens the marinade)

• 2 garlic cloves, minced (for depth of flavor)

• 1 tsp kosher salt

• ¼ tsp black pepper

For the Hot Harissa Vinaigrette:

• ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil

• 2 Tbsp harissa paste (use more or less for heat)

• 2 Tbsp lemon juice

• ½ tsp onion powder

• 2 garlic cloves, minced (or ½ tsp garlic powder)

• 1 tsp kosher salt

For the Bowl & Toppings:

• 2 cups cooked basmati rice (or substitute with greens for low-carb)

• Mixed salad greens (tossed with olive oil)

• 1 ripe avocado, sliced

• Pickled red onions (homemade or store-bought)

• Crumbled feta or Crazy Feta (blended with jalapeño for extra kick)

• Marinated cucumbers & tomatoes (see Note 4 for quick recipe)

• Hummus (for creaminess)

• Pita bread, naan, or pita chips (for serving)

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Step-by-Step Instructions for CAVA Honey Harissa Chicken

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

1. In a bowl or large ziplock bag, combine chicken thighs, 2 Tbsp olive oil, harissa paste, honey, lemon juice, garlic, salt, and pepper.

2. Massage the marinade into the chicken, ensuring even coating.

3. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (or overnight for deeper flavor).

💡 Pro Tip: If using wooden skewers for grilling, soak them in water first to prevent burning.

Step 2: Prep the Toppings

While the chicken marinates:
✔ Cook basmati rice (follow package instructions).
✔ Toss greens with olive oil for extra flavor.
✔ Slice avocado, make pickled onions, and prep other toppings.

Step 3: Make the Hot Harissa Vinaigrette

1. In a jar, combine olive oil, harissa paste, lemon juice, onion powder, garlic, and salt.

2. Shake well or whisk until fully blended.

3. Refrigerate until ready to use.

🌶 Spice Adjustment: Start with 1 Tbsp harissa if sensitive to heat, then add more.

Step 4: Cook the Chicken

1. Heat 2 Tbsp olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.

2. Once hot, add chicken thighs smooth side down and sear 5-6 minutes without moving.

3. Flip and cook 4-5 more minutes until internal temp reaches 160°F (will rise to 165°F while resting).

4. Transfer to a cutting board, let rest 5 minutes, then chop.

🔥 Alternative Cooking Methods:

• Grilling: Cook over medium-high heat, 5-6 minutes per side.

• Air Fryer: 375°F for 12-14 minutes, flipping halfway.

Step 5: Assemble the Bowls

1. Start with a base of rice and greens.

2. Add chopped chicken, avocado, pickled onions, feta, cucumbers, and hummus.

3. Drizzle with harissa vinaigrette and serve with warm pita.

📸 Instagram-Worthy Tip: Layer ingredients in sections for a colorful, photogenic bowl!

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The Perfect Marinade for CAVA Honey Harissa Chicken

One of the standout features of CAVA Honey Harissa Chicken is its bold, complex marinade. The combination of harissa paste, honey, garlic, and lemon juice creates a smoky, spicy, and slightly sweet flavor profile that makes this dish unforgettable. In this section, we’ll break down the marinade ingredients, explain their roles, and share expert tips for maximizing flavor.

Why the Marinade Matters

A great marinade does three things:

1. Tenderizes the meat (thanks to acidic ingredients like lemon juice).

2. Infuses deep flavor (from spices, herbs, and aromatics).

3. Helps retain moisture (especially important for chicken).

The honey harissa marinade in this recipe achieves all three, making the chicken juicy, flavorful, and slightly caramelized when cooked.

Key Ingredients & Their Roles

1. Harissa Paste (The Star of the Show)

• What it is: A North African chili paste made from roasted red peppers, spices (like cumin, coriander, and caraway), garlic, and olive oil.

• Flavor profile: Smoky, spicy, and slightly tangy.

• Tip: Brands vary in heat—start with 2 Tbsp and adjust.

2. Honey (The Balancer)

• Why it’s used: Counters the heat of harissa while helping caramelize the chicken.

• Best type: Raw honey or regular clover honey (avoid ultra-processed syrups).

3. Lemon Juice (The Brightener)

• Function: Acid tenderizes the meat and adds freshness.

• Tip: Freshly squeezed works best (bottled can taste metallic).

4. Garlic (The Flavor Booster)

• Why minced garlic? Releases more flavor than powder.

• Tip: Let the marinade sit for 30+ minutes so garlic infuses fully.

5. Olive Oil (The Moisture Keeper)

• Purpose: Prevents sticking and locks in juices.

• Best type: Extra virgin olive oil for richness.

Marinating Like a Pro

How Long Should You Marinate?

• Minimum: 30 minutes (good for quick meals).

• Optimal: 4-12 hours (deeper flavor penetration).

• Too long? Over-marinating (24+ hours) can make chicken mushy.

Best Marinating Methods

✔ Zip-top bag: Ensures even coating, easy cleanup.
✔ Glass container: Non-reactive, good for longer marinating.
❌ Metal bowl: Can react with acidic ingredients.

Bonus Tip: Score the Chicken

Lightly scoring the thighs helps the marinade penetrate deeper.

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 Cooking Methods for Juicy Honey Harissa Chicken

Once your chicken is perfectly marinated, the next step is cooking it to tender, juicy perfection. In this section, we’ll compare stovetop, grilling, and air frying methods, along with troubleshooting tips to avoid dry or overcooked chicken.

Stovetop (Skillet) Method

Best for: Quick, caramelized crust.

Step-by-Step:

1. Heat 2 Tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

2. Add chicken smooth side down and sear 5-6 minutes undisturbed.

3. Flip and cook 4-5 more minutes until 160°F internal temp.

4. Rest 5 minutes (temp will rise to 165°F).

🔥 Pro Tip: Don’t overcrowd the pan—cook in batches if needed.

Grilling Method

Best for: Smoky charred flavor.

Step-by-Step:

1. Preheat grill to medium-high (400°F).

2. Oil grates to prevent sticking.

3. Grill chicken 5-6 minutes per side, lid closed.

4. Check for 165°F internal temp.

🌶 Bonus: Brush with extra marinade while grilling for added glaze.

Air Fryer Method

Best for: Crispy edges with minimal oil.

Step-by-Step:

1. Preheat air fryer to 375°F.

2. Cook chicken 12-14 minutes, flipping halfway.

3. Check temp with a meat thermometer.

⏱ Time-Saver: No preheating? Add 2-3 extra minutes.

Avoiding Common Mistakes

1. Overcooking

• Solution: Use a meat thermometer (165°F is safe).

• Signs of doneness: Juices run clear, no pink.

2. Sticking to the Pan

• Fix: Ensure pan is hot before adding chicken.

3. Bland Chicken

• Why? Not enough salt or marinating time.

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 Building the Ultimate CAVA-Style Bowl

The final step? Assembling a vibrant, restaurant-worthy bowl with your Honey Harissa Chicken. Here’s how to layer textures and flavors like CAVA does.

Base Layer: Rice or Greens?

• Basmati rice: Fluffy, aromatic, and filling.

• Mixed greens: Lighter, low-carb option.

• Half-and-half: Best of both worlds.

Toppings: The More, The Better

1. Creamy Elements

• Hummus (classic or spicy).

• Crazy Feta (blended with jalapeños).

• Tzatziki (cooling contrast).

2. Crunchy Add-Ons

• Pickled red onions (tangy bite).

• Pita chips (for texture).

• Cucumber-tomato salad (fresh crunch).

3. Fresh Veggies

• Avocado (creamy richness).

• Roasted eggplant (Mediterranean twist).

• Shredded cabbage (extra crunch).

Drizzles & Sauces

• Hot harissa vinaigrette (spicy kick).

• Garlic dressing (creamy alternative).

• Extra lemon wedges (bright finish).

Presentation Tips

• Color contrast: Place vibrant toppings (red onions, herbs) on top.

• Sauce art: Drizzle dressing in zigzags for Instagram appeal.

Expert Tips for the Best CAVA Honey Harissa Chicken

✔ Use Boneless, Skinless Thighs – They stay juicier than breasts.
✔ Adjust Harissa to Taste – Some brands are spicier than others.
✔ Make Ahead – Marinate chicken overnight for maximum flavor.
✔ Crazy Feta Hack – Blend feta with jalapeño, red onion, and olive oil for extra creaminess.
✔ Meal Prep Friendly – Store components separately for quick assembly.

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Nutritional Info & Dietary Adaptations

Nutrition (Per Serving – Chicken, Rice, Greens Only)

Dietary Modifications:

🌱 Dairy-Free: Skip the feta or use a vegan alternative.
🥬 Low-Carb/Keto: Replace rice with cauliflower rice or extra greens.
🌾 Gluten-Free: Ensure harissa and pita are gluten-free.

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Why This Recipe Beats Takeout

✅ Fresher Ingredients – No preservatives or hidden additives.
✅ Cost-Effective – Feeds 5 for less than the price of 2 CAVA bowls.
✅ Customizable – Adjust spice levels, toppings, and portions.

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Print

Final Thoughts

This CAVA Honey Harissa Chicken recipe is a restaurant-quality dish you can easily make at home. With its perfectly spiced marinade, tender chicken, and vibrant toppings, it’s a healthy, flavorful meal that’s sure to become a staple.