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Honey Harissa Chicken Bowls (CAVA Copycat)

Close-up of a bowl featuring vibrant, spicy harissa chicken pieces served over white rice and lettuce.

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Make this flavorful Honey Harissa Chicken at home. This recipe delivers the spicy, sweet flavor profile of popular bowls, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or meal prep.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 1/2 cup harissa paste
  • 1/4 cup honey
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • For the Vinaigrette: 3 tablespoons olive oil, 2 tablespoons lemon juice, 1 tablespoon harissa paste, 1 teaspoon honey, pinch of salt
  • For Serving: Cooked basmati rice, chopped romaine lettuce, diced cucumber, sliced red onion, fresh parsley

Instructions

  1. In a medium bowl, combine the harissa paste, honey, 2 tablespoons olive oil, minced garlic, cumin, salt, and pepper to create the marinade.
  2. Add the cut chicken pieces to the marinade and toss until fully coated. Let the chicken marinate for at least 15 minutes, or up to 4 hours in the refrigerator.
  3. Prepare the vinaigrette by whisking together the 3 tablespoons olive oil, lemon juice, 1 tablespoon harissa paste, 1 teaspoon honey, and a pinch of salt until emulsified. Set aside.
  4. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken in a single layer, working in batches if necessary to avoid crowding the pan.
  5. Cook the chicken for 5 to 7 minutes per side, until cooked through and slightly caramelized.
  6. While the chicken cooks, prepare your bowls with a base of rice and lettuce.
  7. Top the rice and lettuce with the cooked harissa chicken, cucumber, red onion, and fresh parsley.
  8. Drizzle the prepared harissa vinaigrette over the bowls before serving.

Notes

  • For a sheet pan method, toss the marinated chicken with 1 cup of chopped sweet potatoes and roast at 400°F (200°C) for 25 minutes.
  • If you prefer a milder heat, reduce the amount of harissa paste in the marinade slightly.
  • This chicken is excellent for meal prep; store the components separately and assemble just before eating.

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