Cava Grilled Chicken Recipe

If you love Mediterranean flavors, the Cava grilled chicken recipe is the perfect choice for your next meal. It combines juicy, marinated chicken with bold spices and tangy yogurt for an unforgettable taste. This recipe is inspired by the popular restaurant chain, CAVA, known for its fresh and healthy Mediterranean bowls. With this guide, you can easily make restaurant-quality grilled chicken at home using simple ingredients and easy steps.

What Is Cava Grilled Chicken?

The Cava grilled chicken recipe is based on a Mediterranean-style marinade featuring olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and herbs. The chicken is grilled until perfectly charred on the outside and juicy inside. It’s often served with rice, hummus, tzatziki, or inside a pita wrap.

ALSO READ: Cava jasmine tea with prices (US)

This dish is popular because it’s high in protein, low in fat, and packed with flavor. It’s perfect for anyone following a healthy lifestyle, including the Mediterranean or high-protein diet.

Ingredients for Cava Grilled Chicken Recipe

To make the Cava grilled chicken recipe, you’ll need fresh ingredients that are easy to find in most grocery stores. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Marinade:

• 1 ½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
• 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon oregano
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• ½ cup plain Greek yogurt (optional for tenderness)

For Serving:

• Cooked basmati or brown rice
• Tzatziki sauce or garlic yogurt sauce
• Cucumber slices, tomatoes, and red onions
• Crumbled feta cheese
• Fresh parsley or mint

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Cava Grilled Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

In a large mixing bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, vinegar, garlic, and spices. Whisk until smooth. Add Greek yogurt if you want a creamy texture and extra flavor. The yogurt also helps tenderize the meat.

ALSO READ: Cava salad bowl with price US

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

Add the chicken pieces to the bowl, coating them evenly with the marinade. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or preferably overnight for deeper flavor.

Step 3: Preheat the Grill

Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking. You can also use a stovetop grill pan or even an air fryer if you don’t have an outdoor grill.

Step 4: Grill the Chicken

Place the marinated chicken on the grill and cook for 5–7 minutes per side, depending on thickness. Flip once, ensuring the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). The outside should be nicely charred and golden.

Step 5: Rest the Chicken

Remove the grilled chicken and let it rest for 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping it moist and tender.

Step 6: Slice and Serve

Slice the chicken into strips and serve it with rice, pita bread, or salad. Add toppings like tzatziki, hummus, cucumber, and feta for a true CAVA-style meal.

Why This Cava Grilled Chicken Recipe Works

The success of the Cava grilled chicken recipe lies in its balance of flavors. The acidity from lemon juice tenderizes the meat, while the spices add depth. Olive oil ensures a juicy texture, and grilling enhances the smoky flavor. When combined, every bite offers a blend of freshness, spice, and zest.

Additionally, this recipe is:

• Healthy – Low in fat, high in protein, and packed with nutrients.
• Versatile – Pairs well with rice, wraps, or salad.
• Quick – Minimal prep and fast cooking.
• Customizable – You can adjust the seasoning or add sauces to fit your taste.

Variations of Cava Grilled Chicken Recipe

There are many ways to enjoy this flavorful dish Cava Grilled Chicken Recipe. Here are a few delicious variations:

1. Spicy Cava Grilled Chicken

Add chili flakes or cayenne pepper to the marinade for extra heat. This is perfect for spice lovers who enjoy a kick in every bite.

2. Lemon-Herb Cava Chicken

Increase the amount of lemon juice and add fresh herbs like parsley, basil, or dill for a zesty twist.

3. Garlic-Yogurt Chicken

Use more yogurt in the marinade for a creamier consistency and mild tang. This version pairs beautifully with pita and cucumber salad.

4. Cava Grilled Chicken Bowl

Serve grilled chicken over rice or quinoa with chickpeas, roasted vegetables, and a drizzle of tahini sauce. It’s a perfect meal-prep option for the week.

5. Cava Chicken Wrap

Wrap the grilled chicken in a warm pita with lettuce, tomato, cucumber, and tzatziki for a quick and satisfying lunch.

Tips for Perfect Grilled Chicken

Getting your Cava grilled chicken recipe right depends on a few simple tricks:

1. Don’t Overcook: Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F but not more.
2. Marinate Longer: The longer the marination, the juicier the chicken. Overnight works best.
3. Use Thighs for More Flavor: Chicken thighs stay juicier than breasts.
4. Rest Before Cutting: Letting the chicken rest ensures it stays tender.
5. Grill on Medium Heat: High heat may burn the outside before the inside cooks fully.

Nutritional Benefits of Cava Grilled Chicken

The Cava grilled chicken recipe is not only delicious but also nutritious. It’s rich in lean protein, essential vitamins, and minerals. Here’s an approximate nutritional breakdown per serving:

This makes it a great option for those following fitness or weight-loss plans. It provides energy without unnecessary calories or processed ingredients.

What to Serve with Cava Grilled Chicken

You can enjoy this dish in many ways. Some great pairings include:

• Mediterranean Rice Bowl: Add roasted vegetables, tzatziki, and feta.
• Greek Salad: Combine tomatoes, cucumbers, olives, and red onions.
• Hummus and Pita: Perfect for dipping and scooping.
• Roasted Potatoes: Add garlic and herbs for a hearty side.
• Couscous or Quinoa: Light and nutritious alternatives to rice.

Each pairing complements the Cava grilled chicken recipe by enhancing its Mediterranean flavor profile.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you have leftovers, you can store the grilled chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat:

• Use a microwave for 1–2 minutes on medium power.
• Or warm it in a skillet with a little olive oil to keep it juicy.
• Avoid overcooking during reheating to prevent dryness.

You can also freeze cooked chicken for up to 2 months. Just thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Health Benefits of Cava Grilled Chicken

The Cava grilled chicken recipe is not only tasty but also supports a healthy diet. Some benefits include:

• High Protein Content: Helps build and repair muscle.
• Healthy Fats: Olive oil provides monounsaturated fats that support heart health.
• Low Carb: Great for keto or low-carb diets.
• Antioxidants: Spices like paprika and oregano contain antioxidants that support immunity.
• Vitamin Boost: Lemon and garlic contribute to overall wellness.

This dish fits perfectly into a balanced Mediterranean-style eating pattern, which is known for longevity and heart health.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I bake instead of grill the chicken?

Yes, you can bake it in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 20–25 minutes or until fully cooked.

2. What cut of chicken works best?

Boneless, skinless chicken thighs provide more flavor, but breasts are leaner if you prefer a lighter version.

3. Can I make it dairy-free?

Yes, just skip the yogurt and add extra olive oil or a spoon of coconut yogurt as an alternative.

4. What sauce goes best with it?

Tzatziki, hummus, or garlic yogurt sauce complements this recipe beautifully.

5. Is this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely. All ingredients in the Cava grilled chicken recipe are naturally gluten-free.

Conclusion

The Cava grilled chicken recipe brings the authentic flavors of the Mediterranean right into your kitchen. It’s easy to make, healthy, and versatile enough for lunch, dinner, or meal prep. With tender, juicy chicken and a flavorful marinade, every bite captures the balance of zest, spice, and freshness that makes CAVA so popular.