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Ultimate Cava Harissa Halal Chicken Grain Bowl Salad Recipe


  • Author: David Andersson
  • Total Time: 35 minutes (or 1 hour 5 minutes including marinating)
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

Description

This specific creation is a wholesome, multi-layered meal inspired by modern Mediterranean fast-casual dining concepts. At its core, the Cava Harissa Halal Chicken Grain Bowl Salad is a deeply satisfying template designed to fuel your body with clean energy. It utilizes a base of slow-burning carbohydrates, a generous serving of high-quality protein, a colorful array of raw and pickled vegetables, and a variety of textures derived from cheeses, seeds, and dips.


Ingredients

Scale

For the Harissa Chicken

  • lbs (680 g) halal boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
  • 2 tbsp harissa paste
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ¼ tsp black pepper

For the Grain Bowl

  • 2 cups cooked brown rice, quinoa, or farro
  • 1 cup hummus
  • 1 cup cucumber, diced
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • ½ cup shredded carrots
  • ½ cup pickled red onions
  • ½ cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
  • ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley
  • 2 tbsp toasted pumpkin seeds or sunflower seeds

Lemon Dressing

  • 3 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 tbsp lemon juice
  • 1 tsp Dijon mustard
  • 1 tsp honey
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  • In a bowl, whisk together the harissa paste, olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.
  • Coat the chicken evenly with the marinade and let it rest for 30 minutes, or refrigerate for up to 8 hours.
  • Preheat a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat.
  • Cook the chicken for 5–7 minutes per side, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
  • Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes, then slice it into strips.
  • Whisk together all the dressing ingredients until smooth.
  • Divide the cooked grains among four serving bowls.
  • Arrange the hummus, cucumber, tomatoes, carrots, pickled onions, feta, parsley, and seeds around the bowls.
  • Top each bowl with sliced harissa chicken.
  • Drizzle with the lemon dressing and serve immediately.

Notes

This CAVA-inspired Harissa Halal Chicken Grain Bowl delivers a delicious balance of smoky, spicy, fresh, and creamy flavors in every bite. Packed with protein, colorful vegetables, and hearty grains, it’s a nourishing meal that’s perfect for busy weekdays, healthy lunches, or satisfying dinners.

  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Grilling
  • Cuisine: Mediterranean

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 bowl
  • Calories: 620 kcal

Keywords: Mediterranean Harissa Chicken Bowl, Halal Chicken Grain Salad