If you’re a fan of Mediterranean flavors, you’re in for a treat! This Cava Chicken Recipe is not only bursting with fresh herbs, lemon, and garlic but also packed with lean protein and wholesome ingredients. Inspired by the beloved dishes at Cava Grill, this recipe brings the vibrant taste of the Mediterranean right to your kitchen—no takeout required.
Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a meal-prep option that stays delicious all week long, this healthy and satisfying chicken dish has you covered. Serve it over brown rice, quinoa, or alongside warm pita bread, and don’t forget to pile on the toppings like tzatziki sauce, feta cheese, and a kick of harissa for an extra burst of flavor.
In this post, we’ll guide you through everything you need to know to make this mouthwatering Cava Chicken Recipe at home—from marinating tips to topping ideas. So grab your apron and get ready to impress your taste buds with this easy and delicious recipe! 😊🍋🍗
What Makes Cava Chicken Recipe So Special?
Mediterranean Flavors
The magic of this Cava Chicken Recipe lies in its bold and refreshing Mediterranean flavors. The heart of this dish is a marinade made with lemon juice, garlic, and olive oil. It also includes a blend of herbs like oregano, thyme, and parsley. These ingredients tenderize the chicken and infuse it with a bright, zesty taste that is both satisfying and light.
Mediterranean cuisine is known for its balance of flavors—combining citrus notes with earthy herbs and a touch of saltiness. In this recipe, the lemon brings acidity that cuts through the richness of the chicken, while garlic adds a savory depth. The olive oil ties everything together, enhancing the flavors and keeping the chicken moist during cooking.
To elevate these flavors even further, you can add a sprinkle of sumac for a tangy kick or a dash of paprika for mild smokiness. Fresh toppings like cucumber, tomato, and red onion complement the marinated chicken, creating a well-rounded and vibrant dish. Pairing the chicken with sides like hummus, tzatziki sauce, or warm pita bread brings out the true essence of the Mediterranean diet—healthy, flavorful, and satisfying.
This harmonious blend of flavors not only makes the dish incredibly tasty but also aligns with the health benefits of the Mediterranean diet, which is rich in healthy fats, lean proteins, and fresh vegetables. It’s no wonder this Cava Chicken Recipe is a favorite for those seeking both taste and nutrition! 🍋🍗🌿
Healthy Ingredients
One of the best things about this Cava Chicken Recipe is the use of healthy ingredients that taste amazing and offer great health benefits. At its core is lean chicken breast, providing high-quality protein with minimal fat. It’s perfect for building muscle or maintaining a balanced diet.
The marinade is a blend of olive oil, fresh lemon juice, garlic, and herbs like oregano and parsley. Olive oil, a staple of the Mediterranean diet, is rich in monounsaturated fats that support heart health and help reduce inflammation. Fresh lemon juice adds a boost of vitamin C and helps tenderize the chicken, while garlic brings antioxidants and antimicrobial properties that benefit your immune system.
For the base, options like brown rice, quinoa, or whole-grain pita bread provide complex carbohydrates and fiber. They help you stay full longer and support digestive health. The toppings add more nutrition: tzatziki sauce made from Greek yogurt delivers probiotics and protein, while feta cheese offers calcium and a bit of tang. Fresh vegetables like cucumber, tomato, and red onion add a dose of fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants.
For a spicy kick, harissa adds capsaicin, which boosts metabolism and enhances the dish without extra calories. Focusing on fresh, minimally processed ingredients, this recipe offers a satisfying meal without compromising health or flavor. Whether you’re meal-prepping for the week or enjoying a quick dinner, this Cava Chicken Recipe has you covered! 🥗🍗🍋
Inspired by Cava Grill
This Cava Chicken Recipe is inspired by dishes from Cava Grill, a fast-casual restaurant known for vibrant, customizable Mediterranean bowls. Cava Grill blends fresh ingredients, bold flavors, and wholesome options, making it a favorite for healthy meals on the go. Our recipe captures the essence of Cava Grill’s bowls by using similar ingredients and techniques to bring satisfying flavors to your home kitchen.
At the heart of this recipe is the lemon herb chicken, a staple at Cava Grill. It’s marinated with olive oil, garlic, fresh lemon juice, and Mediterranean herbs like oregano and parsley. This marinade tenderizes the chicken and infuses it with zesty, aromatic flavors. Grilling or baking the chicken helps retain its juiciness while adding a subtle charred taste, just like the perfectly grilled options at Cava.
The recipe includes popular Cava-inspired toppings like tzatziki sauce, hummus, feta cheese, and harissa. These toppings create a bowl packed with flavor and nutrition. Serve the chicken over a base of brown rice, saffron-infused basmati rice, or fresh greens. Add fresh veggies like tomato, cucumber, and pickled onions for a satisfying crunch.
By recreating these beloved Cava Grill flavors at home, you can enjoy a healthier, more budget-friendly version without sacrificing taste. It’s all about capturing that fresh, customizable, and delicious essence that makes Cava Grill a standout in Mediterranean cuisine! 🍗🍋🥗
Ingredients You’ll Need for Cava Chicken Recipe
Chicken and Marinade
The secret to a flavorful Cava Chicken Recipe lies in the marinade. A well-crafted marinade tenderizes the chicken and infuses it with Mediterranean flavors that make each bite irresistible. For this recipe, we use lean chicken breast, a high-protein, low-fat option that absorbs marinades well, ensuring every piece is juicy and packed with taste.
The marinade is a simple yet powerful blend of olive oil, fresh lemon juice, minced garlic, and a mix of Mediterranean herbs like oregano, thyme, and parsley. Olive oil acts as a carrier for the flavors, penetrating the chicken and keeping it moist during cooking. Fresh lemon juice adds a bright, tangy note that balances the richness of the olive oil and helps tenderize the chicken by breaking down its fibers. Meanwhile, garlic introduces a savory depth, while herbs bring an aromatic freshness that captures the essence of Mediterranean cuisine.
To enhance the marinade, add smoked paprika or cumin for warmth, and a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle kick. Marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes to 2 hours to allow the flavors to meld. For a deeper infusion, let it sit overnight in the fridge.
Grilling or baking the chicken at a high temperature creates a golden-brown exterior and a tender, juicy interior. The result is a delicious chicken that pairs perfectly with tzatziki sauce, hummus, or a fresh salad. This marinade turns a simple chicken breast into a flavorful centerpiece, embodying the bright, savory notes of Mediterranean cuisine. 🍋🍗🌿
Toppings
The right toppings can take this Cava Chicken Recipe to the next level, adding layers of flavor, texture, and nutrition. Inspired by the customizable bowls at Cava Grill, this recipe embraces a mix of fresh, tangy, and creamy elements that complement the marinated chicken perfectly.
Start with a generous dollop of tzatziki sauce—a creamy blend of Greek yogurt, cucumber, garlic, and dill. This sauce not only adds a refreshing coolness but also balances the zest of the lemon herb chicken. For a touch of richness, sprinkle some feta cheese crumbles. Its salty and tangy notes bring out the savory flavors of the marinade, while also adding a bit of creaminess.
Next, pile on the fresh vegetables. Sliced cucumber, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and Kalamata olives create a medley of crunchy and juicy textures, along with a burst of Mediterranean flavors. Pickled onions can also add a delightful tang that cuts through the richness of the chicken and sauces. If you like a bit of heat, a spoonful of harissa—a spicy North African chili paste—can do wonders. Its smoky and spicy kick elevates the dish without overwhelming the other flavors.
For some extra fiber and a bit of nuttiness, try adding roasted chickpeas or pine nuts. A handful of microgreens or fresh herbs like mint and parsley can brighten the bowl and enhance the Mediterranean feel. Drizzle extra virgin olive oil and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice over everything to tie the flavors together.
These toppings make the dish more satisfying and turn the Cava Chicken Recipe into a colorful, well-rounded meal. It’s both nutritious and delicious! 🥗🍗🍋
Base Options
Choosing the right base is essential for building a satisfying and balanced Cava Chicken Recipe. Inspired by Cava Grill’s customizable bowls, this recipe offers base options to suit different tastes and dietary preferences. They all enhance the Mediterranean flavors of the chicken.
One of the most popular choices is brown rice. Its nutty flavor and chewy texture pair beautifully with the zesty lemon herb chicken. Plus, it’s rich in fiber and essential minerals, making it a wholesome option that keeps you full longer. For a more aromatic twist, basmati rice infused with saffron or turmeric adds a subtle fragrance and a golden hue that makes the dish even more inviting.
If you’re looking for a low-carb alternative, consider a base of cauliflower rice. Light and grain-like, it soaks up the marinade’s flavors without adding extra carbs. Another nutrient-dense option is quinoa, a complete protein that’s packed with fiber, iron, and magnesium. Its slightly earthy taste and fluffy texture create a satisfying contrast to the juicy chicken and fresh toppings.
For those who prefer a lighter, salad-based bowl, mixed greens or baby spinach provide a fresh and crisp base. They’re packed with vitamins A and C, iron, and antioxidants, making them a guilt-free option that doesn’t compromise on taste. Drizzling some lemon vinaigrette over the greens can elevate the flavors and tie all the elements together.
If you’re a fan of hearty wraps, serve the chicken and toppings in a warm whole-grain pita for a handheld option. This versatile range of bases ensures everyone can find a version that fits their tastes and dietary needs! 🥗🍚🍗
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Cava Chicken at Home
Marinate the Chicken
Marinating the chicken is a crucial step in making this Cava Chicken Recipe as flavorful and juicy as possible. The marinade serves to tenderize the chicken while infusing it with bold Mediterranean flavors, transforming an ordinary chicken breast into a mouthwatering centerpiece. The combination of ingredients is simple yet effective, ensuring that each bite bursts with zest, richness, and freshness.
Start by combining olive oil, fresh lemon juice, minced garlic, and a blend of herbs like oregano, thyme, and parsley. The olive oil helps the chicken retain moisture during cooking, while the lemon juice provides an acidic punch that tenderizes the meat. Garlic brings a savory depth, and the herbs provide the distinct Mediterranean flavor profile that makes this recipe so delicious. For added warmth and complexity, a pinch of smoked paprika or cumin can be included.
To marinate the chicken, place the chicken breasts into a resealable bag or shallow dish, and pour the marinade over the chicken. Make sure the chicken is fully coated in the mixture. For the best results, marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to soak in. However, if you have the time, marinating for 1 to 2 hours, or even overnight, yields even more intense flavor and tenderness.
Once marinated, the chicken is ready to be grilled or baked. The longer the chicken sits in the marinade, the more the flavors will penetrate, resulting in a juicy, aromatic, and well-seasoned chicken that perfectly complements the toppings and base. This step is key to achieving the depth of flavor that makes the Cava Chicken Recipe a standout! 🍋🍗🌿
Grilling or Baking
Once the chicken has marinated, it’s time to cook. Grilling or baking are the best methods to bring out its flavors. Both methods keep the chicken juicy while creating a beautifully charred or golden exterior, elevating the dish.
Grilling is an excellent option if you want to add a smoky, slightly crispy texture to the chicken. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat and lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking. Place the marinated chicken on the grill and cook for about 5-7 minutes per side, depending on the thickness of the breasts. This method allows the chicken to develop a beautiful sear while keeping the inside tender and juicy. The grill marks also add a rustic, flavorful touch that enhances the overall experience.
If grilling isn’t an option, baking is a great alternative. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and place the marinated chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a lightly greased dish. Bake for 20-30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Baking helps the chicken cook evenly and retain its moisture. To get a bit of extra color, broil the chicken for the last few minutes, watching closely to avoid burning.
Both methods lock in the flavors of the marinade while keeping the chicken juicy and tender. Whether you choose to grill or bake, the result is a delicious, Mediterranean-inspired chicken that perfectly complements the toppings and base, bringing the Cava Chicken Recipe to life! 🍗🔥🌿
Assemble Your Bowl
Assembling your Cava Chicken Bowl is where the fun begins—it’s your chance to customize and layer all the vibrant ingredients for a satisfying and visually appealing meal. The key is to balance the flavors and textures, creating a bowl that’s as delicious as it is nutritious.
Start by choosing your base. Whether you prefer brown rice, quinoa, cauliflower rice, or a bed of mixed greens, this will be the foundation for your bowl. Each option offers a unique texture and flavor, so pick one that best suits your preferences or dietary needs.
Once your base is in place, layer the grilled or baked chicken on top. Slice it thinly to showcase the juicy, flavorful meat that’s been infused with Mediterranean herbs and spices. From here, the bowl is ready for its toppings. Add a spoonful of tzatziki sauce for creaminess, then sprinkle crumbled feta cheese for a salty, tangy contrast. Fresh vegetables like cucumber, tomatoes, and olives add crunch, while pickled red onions give a tangy kick. If you like a bit of heat, spoon in some harissa sauce for a smoky, spicy element.
To finish, drizzle a little extra virgin olive oil over the top and squeeze fresh lemon juice for a zesty punch. Optionally, you can add roasted chickpeas, nuts, or microgreens for extra texture and flavor.
With these simple steps, your Cava Chicken Bowl becomes a customizable, nutrient-packed meal that highlights the flavors of the Mediterranean while offering endless variations based on your tastes. 🥗🍋🍗
Tips and Variations for Cava Chicken Recipe
Vegetarian Alternatives
For vegetarians or those on a plant-based diet, there are delicious alternatives to replace chicken in the Cava Chicken Recipe, while still capturing Mediterranean flavors. These substitutions offer the same satisfying textures and allow you to enjoy the dish without compromising on taste or nutrition.
One excellent substitute is grilled or roasted tofu. Tofu is versatile and absorbs the marinade flavors well. When grilled or baked, it becomes crispy on the outside and tender inside. For a more savory, meaty texture, try tempeh. It has a firm, nutty profile that pairs well with Mediterranean spices.
Another option is chickpeas. Roasted chickpeas provide a delightful crunch and earthiness, making them a great addition to any Mediterranean-inspired bowl. To mimic the rich flavors of the chicken, season the chickpeas with olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, and a mix of herbs such as oregano and thyme.
For a heartier, protein-packed option, consider grilled portobello mushrooms. These mushrooms have a meaty texture and absorb marinades exceptionally well, offering a rich umami flavor that complements the other toppings. Simply slice and grill them for a satisfying addition to your bowl.
Finally, cauliflower can be a great alternative if you’re looking for something light yet filling. Roasted cauliflower florets with Mediterranean seasoning provide a tender, slightly charred option that adds depth to your bowl.
With these vegetarian alternatives, you can enjoy the fresh, vibrant flavors of the Cava Chicken Recipe without the meat, proving that plant-based meals can be just as satisfying and delicious! 🌱🍽️
Spice It Up
To truly elevate the Cava Chicken Recipe, don’t shy away from adding a little heat. Spices and hot ingredients can enhance the Mediterranean flavors and provide an exciting kick that perfectly complements the marinated chicken, creamy tzatziki, and fresh vegetables. Whether you prefer mild warmth or a fiery explosion of flavor, there are several ways to spice it up.
One of the easiest ways is to include a drizzle of harissa. This North African chili paste is made with roasted peppers, garlic, and spices like cumin and coriander. Its smoky and spicy depth adds a bold layer of heat without overwhelming the dish. For those who like it hot, a spoonful of sriracha or chili flakes can bring an extra level of spiciness to the bowl. Adjust the quantity according to your heat tolerance, ensuring that the spice enhances, not dominates, the other flavors.
If you want a more subtle heat, try incorporating cayenne pepper or paprika into the chicken marinade. Both offer a mild, building warmth that deepens the overall flavor profile. Smoked paprika also adds a rich, smoky dimension that pairs wonderfully with the grilled or baked chicken.
For those who love fresh heat, topping your bowl with sliced fresh jalapeños or serrano peppers adds crunch and a burst of spicy flavor. Pickled banana peppers or spicy olives can also bring a tangy, zesty heat that brightens up the bowl.
By adding the right spices and hot ingredients, you can customize your Cava Chicken Recipe to suit your preferred level of spice while enhancing its Mediterranean-inspired flavors. 🌶️🔥🍗
Meal Prep Tips
If you want to make your Cava Chicken Recipe ahead of time, meal prepping is a great way to save time. With a few simple steps, you can prepare the recipe in advance, ensuring a healthy, delicious meal all week.
Start by marinating the chicken in bulk. You can double or triple the marinade recipe and store it in an airtight container in the fridge. This allows you to have the chicken marinating for a longer period, deepening the flavors, or you can portion it out for several meals. The marinated chicken can be cooked in large batches and then stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
For the base options, consider preparing your grains, like brown rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice, in advance. Cook a large batch at the beginning of the week and store it in individual containers. This saves time on busy days when you’re assembling your bowls. Keep your greens and salad ingredients fresh by storing them separately in containers to prevent wilting.
Toppings can also be prepped ahead of time. Slice your veggies, like cucumbers, tomatoes, and red onions, and store them in airtight containers. You can also prepare tzatziki sauce and store it in the fridge for a few days. If you’re adding ingredients like pickled onions or roasted chickpeas, these can be prepared in advance and kept ready for assembly.
By using these meal prep tips, you can have your Cava Chicken Bowls ready to assemble in minutes, making it easy to enjoy a fresh, flavorful, and healthy meal all week long! 🍴🥗🍗
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can absolutely make the Cava Chicken Recipe ahead of time, making it an ideal option for meal prepping or preparing for a busy week. With a little advance preparation, you can enjoy a fresh and flavorful Mediterranean-inspired bowl in no time!
Start by marinating the chicken. Marinating the chicken ahead of time allows the flavors to soak in deeply, enhancing the overall taste. You can marinate the chicken for up to 24 hours in the fridge. If you’re short on time, marinating for at least 30 minutes still offers great results. Simply store the chicken in a resealable bag or container in the fridge until you’re ready to cook.
If you’re making the chicken in bulk, grilling or baking the chicken in advance is a great option. Once cooked, the chicken can be stored in the fridge for up to 4 days. When you’re ready to assemble your bowls, simply slice the chicken and heat it up if desired.
For the base options, grains like brown rice or quinoa can be cooked ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to 4 days. They’ll stay fresh and fluffy, ready to be added to your bowls when needed.
Toppings like chopped vegetables, tzatziki sauce, and pickled onions can also be prepared in advance and stored separately in the fridge to maintain their freshness. Just make sure to keep everything in airtight containers to preserve flavor and texture.
By making the elements of this Cava Chicken Recipe ahead of time, you’ll have all the components ready for quick assembly, ensuring you can enjoy a nutritious meal without the hassle! 🥗🍗🍋
What Are the Best Toppings for Cava Chicken?
Toppings are what truly elevate the Cava Chicken Bowl, adding layers of texture, flavor, and freshness. To create a balanced bowl, choose toppings that complement the marinated chicken and capture the essence of Mediterranean cuisine. Here are some of the best toppings to include:
- Tzatziki Sauce: This creamy, tangy yogurt-based sauce with cucumber and garlic is a classic topping that pairs perfectly with grilled chicken. Its coolness balances the warmth and spice of the chicken, enhancing the overall flavor.
- Feta Cheese: Crumbled feta cheese offers a salty, tangy contrast to the chicken, adding a rich and creamy texture. It’s a must-have for an authentic Mediterranean experience.
- Fresh Vegetables: Crisp, fresh veggies like cucumbers, tomatoes, and red onions add crunch and vibrant color to your bowl. The freshness of the vegetables complements the richness of the chicken and sauces.
- Olives: Kalamata olives are a great addition for a burst of briny flavor. Their bold taste works well with the chicken and other toppings, enhancing the Mediterranean theme.
- Pickled Red Onions: Pickled red onions add a tangy, slightly sweet contrast that cuts through the richness of the other ingredients, balancing the bowl.
- Herbs: Fresh herbs like parsley, cilantro, or oregano add a burst of freshness and aromatic flavor to the bowl, tying all the components together.
- Roasted Chickpeas: For extra crunch and protein, roasted chickpeas are a wonderful addition. They add a nutty flavor and provide a satisfying texture contrast.
With these toppings, your Cava Chicken Bowl becomes a flavorful, customizable dish that highlights Mediterranean flavors while offering a variety of textures. 🌿🧀🍅
How to Store and Reheat Leftovers?
Storing and reheating leftovers from your Cava Chicken Recipe is easy and ensures you can enjoy the meal again without losing any of its flavor or freshness. With a few simple steps, you can keep your dish tasting great for up to a few days.
Storing Leftovers:
After you’ve enjoyed your Cava Chicken Bowl, store any leftover ingredients in separate, airtight containers. This helps preserve the texture of each component. The chicken can be stored in one container, and the grains (rice, quinoa, etc.) in another. Store fresh vegetables, toppings, and sauces like tzatziki separately to prevent wilting or texture loss when mixed with warm ingredients. Leftover pickled onions and olives can be kept in their own containers as well. Keep everything in the fridge, where they will stay fresh for up to 4 days.
Reheating Leftovers:
When reheating the chicken and grains, avoid microwaving them for too long, as it can dry them out. Instead, use a stovetop or oven to gently warm the chicken. For the stovetop, heat the chicken in a pan over medium heat with a splash of water or olive oil to keep it moist. For the oven, cover the chicken with foil and heat it at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes.
If you’re reheating grains like rice or quinoa, lightly steam them or warm them in a covered dish in the microwave with a sprinkle of water to prevent them from drying out.
As for the toppings, it’s best to add them fresh when you’re ready to enjoy your leftover bowl, as ingredients like tzatziki and vegetables are best served cold and fresh.
With these easy storage and reheating tips, your Cava Chicken Bowl will remain delicious and enjoyable for several days! 🍗🥗🍴
Conclusion
The Cava Chicken Recipe is a perfect balance of simplicity, flavor, and health benefits, making it an ideal meal for anyone looking to enjoy a quick, delicious, and nutritious dish. This recipe is straightforward to prepare, requiring minimal ingredients and easy cooking methods like marinating, grilling, or baking the chicken. The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility; you can adjust the toppings and base options to suit your personal taste or dietary needs, making it both customizable and convenient for meal prep.
When it comes to health benefits, the Cava Chicken Bowl is loaded with nutrient-dense ingredients that provide essential vitamins, minerals, and protein. The grilled chicken is an excellent source of lean protein, promoting muscle growth and repair, while the Mediterranean toppings like fresh vegetables, tzatziki sauce, and olive oil provide antioxidants, healthy fats, and fiber. These healthy fats are beneficial for heart health and contribute to overall well-being.
The dish is also naturally low in carbs, especially if you choose a base like cauliflower rice or salad greens. Including ingredients like tomatoes, cucumbers, and pickled onions adds fresh, hydrating elements that support digestion and skin health.
Overall, the Cava Chicken Recipe is not only easy to prepare and adaptable to various diets, but it also offers numerous health benefits, making it a great choice for anyone looking for a balanced and flavorful meal. Whether you’re on the go, meal prepping, or just craving a tasty, wholesome dish, this recipe is sure to satisfy. 🥗🍗🌱
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