Cava Honey harrisa Chicken Bowl
Inspired by the popular CAVA Mediterranean chain, this Honey Harrisa Chicken Bowl combines spicy-sweet grilled chicken, fluffy rice or greens, and vibrant toppings like hummus, cucumber, tomato, pickled onions, and feta — all drizzled with a creamy garlic or lemon tahini sauce.
⏱️ Time
Prep Time: 25 minutes
Marinating Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: ~1 hour 10 minutes
Ingredients
For the Honey Harissa Chicken
2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
1 ½ tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp harissa paste (mild or spicy to taste)
1 tbsp honey
1 clove garlic, minced
Juice of ½ lemon
½ tsp smoked paprika
Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Bowl Base
1 cup cooked basmati rice, brown rice, or saffron rice (or mixed greens)
½ cup hummus (classic or roasted red pepper)
½ cup chopped romaine or arugula
½ cup cucumber, diced
½ cup cherry tomatoes, halved
¼ cup pickled onions (or thin red onion slices tossed in vinegar + salt for 10 mins)
¼ cup feta cheese, crumbled
2 tbsp olives (optional)
For the Creamy Garlic or Lemon Tahini Sauce
¼ cup Greek yogurt or tahini
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp lemon juice
1 tsp honey
1 small garlic clove, minced
Water, to thin as needed
Salt, to taste
Instructions
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
1. In a bowl, whisk olive oil, harissa paste, honey, garlic, lemon juice, paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Add chicken and coat thoroughly.
3. Marinate for 30 minutes to 2 hours in the fridge.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
1. Heat a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Cook chicken for 5–6 minutes per side, until golden and fully cooked (internal temp 165°F / 74°C).
3. Rest for 5 minutes, then slice.
Step 3: Prepare the Sauce
1. In a small bowl, whisk together yogurt (or tahini), olive oil, lemon juice, honey, garlic, and a pinch of salt.
2. Add water gradually until it reaches a drizzling consistency.
Step 4: Assemble the Bowl
1. In each bowl, add a base of rice or greens.
2. Add scoops of hummus and arrange toppings — cucumber, tomatoes, pickled onions, and feta.
3. Add sliced honey harissa chicken on top.
4. Drizzle with creamy garlic or lemon tahini sauce.
5. Garnish with extra herbs (mint, parsley, or cilantro) and a wedge of lemon.
Notes & Tips
Make it spicier: Add extra harissa or a pinch of cayenne.
Make it meal prep friendly: Store components separately; assemble fresh each day.
Add roasted veggies: Roasted sweet potatoes, zucchini, or peppers go perfectly.
Swap proteins: Try salmon, shrimp, or crispy chickpeas instead of chicken.
❓ frequently asked questions FAQ
Q: What is harissa?
Harissa is a North African chili paste made with roasted peppers, garlic, olive oil, and spices — smoky, spicy, and aromatic.
Q: Can I make it dairy-free?
Yes — use tahini instead of yogurt in the sauce and skip the feta.
Q: Can I bake the chicken instead of grilling?
Yes — bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Nutrition information
Calories: ~520 kcal
Protein: 38g
Carbs: 36g
Fat: 21g
Fiber: 4g