If you’ve ever craved the bold, build-your-own flavor of a CAVA bowl but didn’t want to leave the house (or your budget in shambles), this Harissa Chicken Bowl is your answer. It’s got juicy, marinated chicken with a smoky-spicy kick, fluffy white rice, and all the Mediterranean-inspired toppings you love—ready to go in your kitchen. Perfect for meal prep, busy weeknights, or when you want something that tastes like takeout but feels like a win.
Ingredients (Serves 3–4)
Harissa Chicken
- 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 2 tbsp Harissa paste (like Trader Joe’s or Mina)
- 2 tsp honey
- 1 tsp olive oil
- 1½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- Juice of ½ lemon
White Rice
- 2 cup long-grain white rice
- 2 cups water
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 tbsp olive oil or butter
- Juice of 1 lime (optional for brightness)
- 2 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped (optional for garnish)
Optional Bowl Toppings
- Hummus or tzatziki
- Sliced cucumbers & cherry tomatoes
- Crumbled feta cheese
- Pickled onions
- Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish
Directions:
1. Marinate the Chicken
In a bowl, whisk together the Harissa paste, honey, olive oil, salt, pepper, and lemon juice. Add chicken thighs and coat evenly. Cover and marinate for at least 30 minutes—or overnight for deeper flavor.
2. Cook the Chicken
Heat a skillet over medium-high heat with a drizzle of oil. Add marinated chicken and cook 5–6 minutes per side until golden brown and fully cooked (internal temp: 165°F). Let rest for 5 minutes, then slice.
3. Make the White Rice
- Rinse rice under cold water until water runs mostly clear.
- In a pot, bring 2 cups water to a boil. Add rice, salt, and oil or butter.
- Stir once, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18 minutes.
- Remove from heat and let sit covered for 5 minutes.
- Fluff with a fork. Optional: add lime juice and cilantro for a fresh twist.
4. Build Your Bowl
Start with a bed of white rice, then top with sliced Harissa chicken. Layer on toppings like hummus, cucumbers, feta, and pickled onions. Garnish with herbs if desired.
Meal Prep Tips
- Store bowls in airtight containers for up to 4 days. Keep toppings separate for best results.
- Reheat chicken and rice in a skillet or microwave before serving.
Final Bite
This Harissa Chicken Bowl with white rice brings together spicy, savory, and fresh elements for a quick, satisfying meal you’ll want to make again and again. It’s budget-friendly, easy to prep, and packed with flavor.
