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Homemade Honey Harissa Chicken Cava Recipe - A perfectly made dish on the kitchen table, overhead image.
Antonio Morelli

Honey Harissa Chicken Cava Recipe

This Honey Harissa Chicken Cava Recipe is a sweet and spicy Mediterranean-style chicken dish inspired by the popular CAVA bowl. Juicy marinated chicken is cooked until tender and served with grains, fresh vegetables, and creamy sauces for a flavorful and satisfying meal.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Marinating Time 40 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Lunch, Main Course
Cuisine: American Fusion, Mediterranean, Middle Eastern
Calories: 420
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Honey Harissa Chicken:
  • 1½ lb boneless chicken thighs (or chicken breast)
  • 2 tablespoons harissa paste
  • 2 tablespoons honey
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • ½ teaspoon ground cumin
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Optional Bowl Ingredients:
  • Cooked basmati rice or quinoa
  • Mixed greens
  • Hummus
  • Feta cheese
  • Cucumber tomato salad
  • Pickled onions
  • Tahini or tzatziki sauce

Equipment

  • Mixing bowl
  • Whisk or spoon
  • Grill pan or skillet
  • Cutting board
  • Sharp knife
  • Tongs
  • Measuring spoons
  • Serving bowls

Method
 

  1. Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, mix harissa paste, honey, olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper until well combined.
  2. Marinate the Chicken: Now, Marinate the chicken perfectly, for at least 30 to 35 minutes or up to 4 hours for the best flavor.
  3. Cook the Chicken: Heat the olive oil in a skillet or grill pan on a medium flame. Cook the chicken for about 5–6 minutes per side until properly cooked & brownish texture.
  4. Rest the Chicken: Remove the chicken from heat and allow it to rest for 5 minutes to keep it juicy.
  5. Slice and Assemble: Slice the chicken into strips and serve in a bowl with rice or greens, fresh vegetables, hummus, and sauces.

Notes

  • Chicken thighs are recommended for juicier results.
  • Adjust the harissa amount depending on how spicy you like your food.
  • Add a little extra honey if you prefer a sweeter flavor.
  • Grilling the chicken adds a smoky restaurant-style taste.
  • This recipe works great for meal prep bowls for lunch or dinner.