Cava Honey Harissa Chicken Bowls

Need something exciting for dinner that actually satisfies everyone at the table? These Cava Honey Harissa Chicken Bowls are the flavor-packed solution your weeknights have been begging for. They’re spicy, sweet, a little tangy—and totally customizable, which makes them a hit for picky eaters, salad lovers, and carb enthusiasts alike.

Let’s be real: there’s something incredibly comforting about a warm bowl of rice, juicy marinated chicken, and all the toppings your heart desires. It’s like your favorite CAVA order, but made at home, with love (and less expense).

Why You’ll Love These Cava Honey Harissa Chicken Bowls

This recipe isn’t just a copycat—it’s your at-home MVP for building vibrant, Mediterranean-inspired bowls with ease. Whether you’re trying to eat cleaner or just want a new way to jazz up chicken thighs, this one hits the sweet spot.

Here’s why it’s worth the (very little) effort:

• ✅ Weeknight-friendly – Marinate the chicken ahead and toss everything together when you’re ready.
• ✅ Full of flavor – That honey harissa combo is the stuff of dreams.
• ✅ Totally customizable – From rice to greens to hummus, you can build your perfect bowl.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Most of what you need is probably already in your pantry—and if not, everything’s easily found at your local grocery store.

For the Honey Harissa Chicken Marinade:

• Boneless skinless chicken thighs – Juicy, tender, and flavorful.
• Extra virgin olive oil – Or avocado oil for a neutral swap.
• Harissa paste – Start small if you’re sensitive to spice!
• Honey – Balances out the heat beautifully.
• Lemon juice – A zesty kick.
• Garlic, salt, and pepper – The holy trinity of seasoning.

For the Hot Harissa Vinaigrette:

• Olive oil or avocado oil
• Harissa paste – Again, adjust to taste.
• Lemon juice
• Onion powder & garlic – Flavor boosters.
• Kosher salt

For the Bowls & Toppings:

• Basmati rice – Cooked according to the package.
• Mixed salad greens – Kale, spinach, arugula… whatever you’ve got.
• Olive oil – For tossing the greens.
• Avocado – Creamy perfection.
• Pickled red onions – Make your own or buy them ready to go.
• Crumbled feta – Optional, but highly recommended.
• Marinated cucumbers and tomatoes – Adds freshness and crunch.
• Hummus – Dollop to your heart’s desire.
• Pita chips, bread, or naan – For scooping up every last bite.

How to Make Cava Honey Harissa Chicken Bowls

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

In a bowl or large zip-top bag, toss chicken thighs with olive oil, harissa paste, honey, lemon juice, garlic, salt, and pepper. Cover and let it marinate in the fridge for at least 30 minutes—overnight is even better if you’ve got the time.

Step 2: Prep the Toppings

While the chicken’s getting cozy in its marinade, prep your toppings. Cook the rice, slice the avocados, whip up your pickled onions (or cheat and use store-bought—we’re not judging). Toss your salad greens with a light drizzle of olive oil.

Step 3: Make the Vinaigrette

Combine all vinaigrette ingredients in a jar. Shake or whisk until well blended. Pop it in the fridge to chill.

Step 4: Cook the Chicken

Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, sear the chicken thighs smooth-side down for about 5-6 minutes, until golden brown. Flip and cook another 4-5 minutes until the internal temp hits 160°F (it’ll rise to 165°F as it rests). Let it sit for a few before chopping.

Step 5: Assemble Your Bowl

Time for the fun part! Build your bowl with a bed of rice and greens, then layer on sliced chicken, avocado, feta, pickled onions, cucumbers, and hummus. Drizzle with vinaigrette and add warm pita on the side.

Tips for the Best Honey Harissa Chicken Bowls

• Spice control: Harissa can sneak up on you! Start with less, taste, and adjust as you go.
• Meal prep magic: These bowls are excellent for weekday lunches. Store ingredients separately and assemble fresh each day.
• Picky eater tip: Serve components buffet-style so everyone can build their own bowl. It’s like a chicken bar—only way better than salad night.

A Little Kitchen Story…

This dish quickly became my “Wow, Mom, you should open a restaurant” meal after I made it for the first time. My youngest even asked if I had ordered from “that place with the fancy bowls”—a.k.a. CAVA. That’s how you know it’s a keeper.

FAQs About Cava Honey Harissa Chicken Bowls

Conclusion

Whether you’re meal-prepping for the week or need a “throw it together but make it look gourmet” kind of dinner, these Cava Honey Harissa Chicken Bowls deliver every time. Sweet, spicy, creamy, crunchy—it’s all happening in one glorious bowl.

And hey, don’t be surprised if your homemade version becomes even more popular than takeout. You’ve got the magic.

Explore More Flavorful Chicken Bowl Ideas

If you loved crafting your own Cava Honey Harissa Chicken Bowls, you’re in for a treat with these handpicked recipes that bring the same balance of bold flavors, texture, and wholesome ingredients. These recipes make the perfect next step in your homemade CAVA-style journey—each offering a unique twist for your mealtime rotation.

• Try the Loaded Chicken Fajita Rice Bowls if you’re craving something smoky, sizzling, and packed with veggies and spices.
• For a creamy, spicy bite with a comforting twist, check out the Honey Pepper Chicken Panini Pasta—it’s like your favorite pasta got a flavor glow-up.
• Embrace the Mediterranean vibes further with the Greek Chicken and Lemon Rice—a citrusy, herby dish that pairs perfectly with fresh toppings.
• If you’re a fan of quick one-bowl meals, don’t miss the Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl—a colorful, crowd-pleasing favorite with creamy, spicy flair.

Bookmark these for busy weeknights or meal-prep Sundays. Your taste buds (and your family) will thank you!

Cava Honey Harissa Chicken Bowls

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• Author: Aneta
• Total Time: 50 mins
• Yield: 4 servings 1x

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Description

These bold and flavorful Cava Honey Harissa Chicken Bowls are loaded with juicy marinated chicken, fresh veggies, fluffy rice, creamy feta, and a spicy-sweet vinaigrette. It’s your favorite Mediterranean bowl—made right at home in under an hour!

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Honey Harissa Chicken Marinade

• 1.5 lbs boneless skinless chicken thighs

• 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil (or avocado oil)

• 2 tbsp harissa paste (adjust to taste)

• 1 tbsp honey (or maple syrup)

• 1 tbsp lemon juice

• 2 garlic cloves, minced

• 1 tsp kosher salt

• ½ tsp black pepper

Hot Harissa Vinaigrette

• 2 tbsp olive oil

• 1 tbsp harissa paste

• 1 tbsp lemon juice

• ½ tsp onion powder

• 1 garlic clove, minced (or ½ tsp garlic powder)

• ¼ tsp kosher salt

Bowl & Toppings

• 2 cups cooked basmati rice

• 2 cups mixed salad greens

• 1 avocado, sliced

• ½ cup pickled red onions

• ½ cup crumbled feta

• ½ cup marinated cucumbers and tomatoes

• ¼ cup hummus (to taste)

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

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Instructions

1. Marinate the Chicken:
   In a bowl or zip-top bag, combine chicken thighs with olive oil, harissa, honey, lemon juice, garlic, salt, and pepper. Marinate for at least 30 minutes or overnight in the refrigerator.

2. Prepare Toppings:
   While the chicken marinates, cook basmati rice according to package directions. Slice avocado, crumble feta, and prep your greens and veggies.

3. Make Vinaigrette:
   In a jar, combine vinaigrette ingredients. Shake or whisk until well blended. Chill in the fridge.

4. Cook the Chicken:
   Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear chicken thighs (smooth side down) for 5–6 minutes, then flip and cook for 4–5 minutes more until internal temperature reaches 160°F. Let rest before chopping.

5. Assemble the Bowls:
   Layer bowls with rice and salad greens. Top with chopped chicken, avocado, pickled onions, cucumbers, feta, and hummus. Drizzle with harissa vinaigrette and serve with pita.

Notes

Spice Level Tip: Start with less harissa if you’re heat-sensitive. You can always add more!
Make-Ahead Friendly: Prep ingredients separately and assemble when ready to serve.
Vegetarian Option: Swap chicken with grilled tofu or roasted chickpeas.

• Prep Time: 30 mins
• Cook Time: 20 mins
• Category: Dinner , Bowls
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Mediterranean

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 525 Kcal
• Sugar: 6 g
• Sodium: 740 mg
• Fat: 28 g
• Saturated Fat: 6 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 19 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 38 g
• Fiber: 5 g
• Protein: 34 g
• Cholesterol: 115 mg