the secret to a healthier life, is on your plate 
Growing up, my grandmother always had a way of transforming simple ingredients into something extraordinary. One of her signature dishes was a spicy-sweet chicken infused with bold North African flavors. Years later, I discovered a similar dish at Cava, and it instantly took me back to those cherished memories.
Harissa Honey Chicken Cava is an irresistible fusion of spicy harissa paste and golden honey, creating a flavor-packed Mediterranean dish that’s both comforting and bold. Whether you’ve savored this meal at Cava or want to prepare it at home, this guide will teach you everything you need to know!
Table of content:
🔥 What is Harissa Honey Chicken Cava?
Harissa Honey Chicken Cava is a mouthwatering dish that combines:
- Juicy grilled chicken thighs, infused with a spicy-sweet marinade
- A bold harissa sauce, packed with North African flavors
- A touch of golden honey, to balance the spice
- Served over warm grains, greens, or pita
This dish became a fan-favorite at Cava, a fast-casual Mediterranean eatery. Its bold flavors, rich texture, and nutritious ingredients make it a top choice for those who love healthy, protein-rich meals.
Try Cava’s official Harissa Honey Chicken Bowl.
🌶️ The Origins of Harissa – A North African Treasure
Harissa, the star ingredient of this dish, originates from Tunisia. This fiery red chili paste is a staple in North African cuisine and is known for its bold, smoky, and spicy kick.
🥄 What’s in Harissa?
Traditional harissa paste includes:
- Roasted red chili peppers 🌶️ (adds heat and depth)
- Garlic 🧄 (enhances boldness)
- Olive oil 🫒 (adds richness)
- Cumin, coriander & caraway seeds (earthy, aromatic spices)
Originally used in Tunisian and Moroccan cooking, harissa has now become a global favorite, used in:
✔️ Marinades for meat and seafood
✔️ Dips & sauces for sandwiches
✔️ Seasoning for roasted veggies & grains
💡 Want to make your own harissa? Check out this homemade harissa paste recipe.
🍯 Health Benefits of Harissa and Honey
This dish isn’t just delicious—it’s nutritious too!
🔥 Health Benefits of Harissa
- High in antioxidants 🛡️ (fights inflammation)
- Capsaicin in chili peppers boosts metabolism
- Supports heart health & digestion
🍯 Health Benefits of Honey
- Natural energy booster ⚡
- Antibacterial properties (supports gut health)
- Rich in antioxidants (improves immunity)
When combined, harissa and honey create a perfect balance of heat, sweetness, and health benefits.
🔥 Cava’s Signature Harissa Honey Chicken Bowl
Cava’s Harissa Honey Chicken Bowl is one of their most loved dishes. It features:
✔️ Marinated, grilled chicken 🍗 with a harissa-honey glaze
✔️ Basmati rice or greens 🥬 for a nutritious base
✔️ Pickled onions, cucumbers & tomatoes 🍅 for crunch
✔️ Creamy feta cheese 🧀 for a tangy finish
✔️ Harissa vinaigrette 🌶️ for extra spice
💡 Looking for another healthy Mediterranean recipe? Try our Spicy Chicken Wrap.
👩🍳 How to Make Harissa Honey Chicken Cava at Home
Now, let’s recreate this restaurant-style meal at home!
🛒 Ingredients
For the Marinade:
- 1.5 lbs boneless chicken thighs
- 3 tbsp harissa paste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp lemon juice 🍋
- 1 tbsp honey 🍯
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp salt 🧂
- ½ tsp black pepper
For Cooking:
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1-2 tbsp honey (for drizzling)
🔥 Step-by-Step Cooking Guide
1️⃣ Prepare the Marinade:
- Mix harissa paste, olive oil, lemon juice, honey, garlic, paprika, cumin, salt, and black pepper in a bowl.
2️⃣ Marinate the Chicken:
- Coat the chicken in the mixture, cover, and refrigerate for at least an hour (overnight is best).
3️⃣ Cook the Chicken:
- Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat.
- Cook for 5-6 minutes per side until golden brown.
- Drizzle with honey for a caramelized finish.
4️⃣ Rest and Serve:
- Let the chicken rest before slicing.
- Serve over rice, greens, or pita bread.
Need more healthy chicken recipes? Try our Honey Garlic Chicken.
🥗 Best Sides to Pair with Harissa Honey Chicken
Best Grains & Bases
✔️ Fluffy basmati rice
✔️ Whole wheat pita bread
✔️ Couscous salad with lemon
Toppings & Veggies
✔️ Roasted zucchini & bell peppers
✔️ Pickled onions & cucumbers
✔️ Creamy hummus & tzatziki
💡 FAQs About Harissa Honey Chicken Cava
Q: Is Harissa Honey Chicken Cava very spicy?
A: It has a moderate spice level, but you can easily adjust the heat based on your preference. If you prefer a milder flavor, use less harissa paste or opt for a mild harissa brand. For extra heat, choose a spicier harissa or add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinade.
Q: Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?
A: Yes, you can substitute chicken breast for chicken thighs. However, chicken thighs are more tender and juicy, especially after marination and grilling. If using chicken breast, consider brining it first or marinating for a longer time to retain moisture.
Q: Can I make this recipe vegetarian or vegan?
A: Absolutely! Substitute chicken with tofu, tempeh, or chickpeas for a delicious plant-based alternative. Marinate and roast them the same way for an authentic harissa-honey flavor. Use agave syrup instead of honey to make it fully vegan.
Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Store any leftover Harissa Honey Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it in a pan over medium heat or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes.
Q: Can I freeze Harissa Honey Chicken?
A: Yes! You can freeze marinated raw chicken for up to 3 months in a freezer-safe bag. If freezing cooked chicken, allow it to cool completely before storing. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat as needed.
Q: What are the best side dishes to serve with Harissa Honey Chicken Cava?
A: This dish pairs well with:
✔️ Fluffy basmati rice or quinoa
✔️ Roasted Mediterranean vegetables (zucchini, bell peppers, eggplant)
✔️ Crispy pita chips or warm naan
✔️ Pickled onions and feta cheese for extra tang
✔️ Hummus or tzatziki for a cooling contrast
Q: Where can I buy harissa paste?
A: Harissa paste is widely available at:
- La plupart des épiceries (rayon international ou méditerranéen)
- Middle Eastern markets
- Online retailers like Amazon or specialty spice shops
💡 Looking for a homemade version? Try making your own with roasted peppers, chili, garlic, and olive oil!
🍽️ Conclusion
Harissa Honey Chicken Cava is a perfect blend of spicy, sweet, and savory Mediterranean flavors. Whether you recreate Cava’s version or make it your own, it’s a must-try dish.
✅ Try this recipe and tell us how it turned out!
💡 Looking for more recipes? Explore our Honey Chicken Stir-Fry. 🚀
