Zesty CAVA Honey Harissa Chicken Bowls Recipe

Name: CAVA Honey Harissa Chicken Bowls Zesty
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 1 lb chicken breast, boneless and skinless; 3 tablespoons harissa paste; 2 tablespoons honey; 2 tablespoons lemon juice; 1 cup cucumber, diced; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 cup pita chips; ¼ cup tahini sauce; Fresh herbs (parsley or cilantro) for garnish

Published: January 27, 2026

by Mira

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

CAVA Honey Harissa Chicken Bowls Zesty are not just meals; they are culinary experiences that leave you craving more. Firstly, the unique blend of honey and harissa creates a delightful harmony between sweet and spicy that elevates the chicken to new heights. This balance ensures that each bite is bursting with flavor without being overwhelmingly spicy.

Secondly, this recipe is incredibly customizable. You can easily swap out ingredients based on seasonal availability or personal preferences, making it suitable for everyone at the table. Lastly, the bowls are perfect for meal prep! They store well in the fridge and can be reheated without losing their deliciousness, allowing you to enjoy them throughout the week.

Key Ingredients

CAVA Honey Harissa Chicken Bowls Zesty ingredients

The success of CAVA Honey Harissa Chicken Bowls Zesty lies in its fresh and flavorful ingredients. Below is a list of what you’ll need to create this delicious dish:

Chicken Breast: Lean protein that absorbs flavors beautifully.
Harissa Paste: A North African chili pepper paste that adds heat and depth.
Honey: Sweetener that balances the spiciness of harissa.
Lemon Juice: Fresh acidity that brightens up the dish.
Pita Chips: Crunchy texture that complements the softness of the chicken.
Fresh Vegetables: Such as cucumbers and tomatoes for added freshness.
Tahini Sauce: Creamy dressing that ties all the flavors together.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Start by marinating the chicken breast in harissa paste, honey, and lemon juice. Let it sit for at least 30 minutes to absorb all those flavors.
Preheat your grill or skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the marinated chicken breasts and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
While the chicken is cooking, chop your fresh vegetables into bite-sized pieces. Prepare pita chips as per package instructions or bake them until crispy.
Once cooked, remove the chicken from heat and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing it into strips.
Assemble your bowls by starting with a base of fresh vegetables, then add sliced chicken on top. Drizzle tahini sauce over everything and sprinkle with crushed pita chips for crunch.
Serve immediately and enjoy your flavorful CAVA Honey Harissa Chicken Bowls Zesty!

Expert Tips

If you want to take your CAVA Honey Harissa Chicken Bowls Zesty even further, here are some expert tips. First, consider marinating overnight; this allows deeper flavor penetration into the chicken. Additionally, using boneless thighs instead of breasts can yield juicier results. For an elevated experience, feel free to add grilled halloumi or feta cheese for extra creaminess.

A creative twist could involve adding seasonal vegetables like roasted zucchini or peppers to enhance both nutrition and color. Finally, dressing options can vary; try using yogurt-based sauces for a tangy contrast.

Presentation Ideas

Your CAVA Honey Harissa Chicken Bowls Zesty deserve an Instagram-worthy presentation! Consider serving them in colorful bowls or plates to highlight their vibrant ingredients. Garnish with fresh herbs such as parsley or cilantro for a pop of color and added freshness. A sprinkle of sesame seeds over the tahini sauce can also add visual appeal while enhancing texture. Don’t forget to serve additional lemon wedges on the side; they not only look great but also allow guests to customize their flavor experience!

FAQs

Can I use other proteins instead of chicken?

Absolutely! You can substitute chicken with shrimp, tofu, or beef depending on your dietary preferences. Each protein will bring its own unique flavor profile while still complementing the honey harissa marinade well. Adjust cooking times accordingly based on your protein choice to ensure everything is cooked through properly.

Is harissa paste very spicy?

The spice level of harissa can vary widely based on brand and preparation methods. Generally speaking, it has a warm heat rather than overwhelming spiciness. If you’re concerned about spice levels, start with a smaller amount during marination; you can always add more later if desired!

Can I make this recipe vegan?

You can definitely make vegan adaptations! Substitute chicken with chickpeas or grilled vegetables like eggplant or mushrooms marinated in harissa paste. Replace tahini sauce with avocado crema made from blended avocados and lime juice for creaminess without dairy!

How long do leftovers last?

Your CAVA Honey Harissa Chicken Bowls Zesty will last up to 4 days when stored in airtight containers in the refrigerator. Just keep all components separate until ready to eat so that textures remain intact upon reheating!

What should I serve alongside these bowls?

This dish pairs well with various sides! Consider serving it alongside quinoa salad or roasted potatoes for heartiness. A light cucumber salad dressed simply with olive oil could offer refreshing contrast too!

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