Get the authentic taste of Cava Grill at home with our easy-to-follow chicken recipe, complete with practical tips and realistic timing.
Cava Grill Chicken Recipe: A Delicious Twist on Traditional Chicken
Cava Grill Chicken is a popular dish that has gained a cult following, and for good reason. The combination of juicy chicken, flavorful spices, and a hint of Mediterranean charm makes it a standout recipe. With our Cava Grill Chicken recipe, you can recreate this mouth-watering dish in the comfort of your own home.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This homemade Cava Grill Chicken recipe is incredibly easy to make, requiring just a few simple ingredients, including 450g / 1 lb boneless chicken breast, 60ml / 1/4 cup olive oil, and a blend of aromatic spices. By following our step-by-step guide, you’ll be able to achieve the perfect balance of flavors and textures, all at a fraction of the cost of dining out.
- Quick and easy to prepare, with a cooking time of just 20-25 minutes at 200°C / 400°F
- Customizable to suit your taste preferences, with options for adding your favorite spices and toppings
- A healthy and nutritious alternative to traditional fast food, made with wholesome ingredients and minimal added sugars
Cava Grill Chicken Recipe Card
Craving the delicious flavors of Cava but don’t want to leave your home? This recipe will have you grilling up juicy, flavorful chicken in no time. It’s perfect for meal prepping or a quick weeknight dinner.
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time
20-25 minutes
Serves
4
Ingredients
- 600 g / 1.3 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 240 ml / 1 cup olive oil
- 60 g / 1/4 cup lemon juice
- 30 ml / 2 tablespoons paprika
- 15 ml / 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 15 ml / 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- 10 ml / 1 tablespoon salt
- 5 ml / 1 teaspoon black pepper
Cava Grill Chicken Ingredients
This mouthwatering Cava Grill chicken recipe requires a combination of pantry staples and fresh ingredients. Get ready to elevate your grilling game with these essential items.
- 1.5 kg boneless, skinless chicken breasts (3-4 lbs)
- 240 g (1 cup) plain Greek yogurt
- 60 g (1/4 cup) olive oil
- 60 g (1/4 cup) freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 30 g (2 tbsp) honey
- 15 g (1 tsp) smoked paprika
- 7.5 g (1/2 tsp) garlic powder
- 2.5 g (1/2 tsp) salt
- 1.25 g (1/4 tsp) black pepper
- 120 g (1 cup) chopped fresh parsley
- 120 g (1 cup) crumbled feta cheese (optional)
Optional Ingredients:
- 30 g (2 tbsp) chopped fresh dill
- 60 g (1/4 cup) chopped red onion
Make sure to have these pantry staples on hand: olive oil, lemon juice, honey, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. You’ll also need a few fresh ingredients like parsley and feta cheese (if using).
Step-by-Step Instructions for Cava Grill Chicken
To achieve the signature flavor of Cava Grill chicken, it’s essential to follow a series of precise steps, from marinating to grilling and finally resting the chicken.
The process begins with preparing a marinade, which will be the foundation of the dish’s flavor profile, and then proceeds to the grilling phase, where the chicken is cooked to perfection.
Marinating the Chicken
In a large bowl, whisk together 60 ml / 1/4 cup of olive oil, 30 g / 2 tablespoons of freshly squeezed lemon juice, 20 g / 2 cloves of minced garlic, and 10 g / 1 teaspoon of dried oregano to create the marinade.
Then, add 1.2 kg / 2.6 lbs of boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 5 cm / 2-inch pieces, to the marinade, ensuring each piece is fully coated.
Grilling the Chicken
- Preheat the grill to 200°C / 400°F, allowing it to reach the desired temperature for at least 10 minutes before grilling.
- Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off, and place the chicken pieces on the grill, leaving about 2.5 cm / 1 inch of space between each piece.
- Grill the chicken for 5-6 minutes per side, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 74°C / 165°F, indicating it’s fully cooked.
- After flipping the chicken, reduce the grill temperature to 180°C / 350°F to prevent overcooking and promote even cooking.
- Once the chicken is cooked, transfer it to a plate and let it rest for 5 minutes, allowing the juices to redistribute and the chicken to retain its tenderness.
Resting and Serving
During the resting period, the chicken will retain its heat, and the juices will be reabsorbed, making it more tender and flavorful when served.
After the chicken has rested, slice it into thin strips, if desired, and serve it alongside your choice of sides, such as roasted vegetables, quinoa, or a fresh salad.
For an authentic Cava Grill experience, consider serving the chicken in a bowl with a base of rice, topped with roasted vegetables, tzatziki sauce, and a sprinkle of feta cheese.
Pro Tips for Making the Best Cava Grill Chicken
Elevate your Cava Grill chicken game with these insider tips for juicy, flavorful results every time:
Marinade Mastery
A good marinade is key! Let the chicken soak for at least 30 minutes, or even better, overnight in the refrigerator. This allows the flavors to penetrate deeply.
- Pro Tip: Don’t be afraid to experiment with your marinade. Try adding a squeeze of lemon juice, a touch of honey, or your favorite herbs and spices.
- Common Pitfall: Marinating for too long can make the chicken mushy. Stick to the recommended time.
Temperature Control
Maintaining the right temperature is crucial for perfectly cooked chicken. Grill over medium-high heat (200°C / 400°F) to ensure even cooking and a nice sear.
- Pro Tip: Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the chicken. It should reach 74°C / 165°F.
- Common Pitfall: Overcooking the chicken will result in dry, tough meat.
Grilling Techniques
For optimal grill marks and flavor, don’t overcrowd the grill. Allow space between chicken pieces for even heat distribution.
- Pro Tip: Baste the chicken with marinade or a little olive oil during grilling to keep it moist and flavorful.
- Common Pitfall: Flipping the chicken too frequently can prevent it from developing a good crust.
Substitutions and Variations for Cava Grill Chicken
Want to make our Cava Grill chicken recipe your own? Try these substitutions and variations to give it a personal touch.
Ingredient Substitutions
- For the chicken: Use boneless, skinless turkey breast or thighs as a substitute for chicken breasts.
- For the Greek yogurt marinade: Swap in 240 g (1 cup) of sour cream or 120 ml (1/2 cup) of buttermilk for a tangier flavor.
- For the lemon juice: Use lime juice for a slightly sweeter and more acidic flavor.
Marinade Flavors
- Add a pinch of cumin for a smoky, earthy flavor.
- Use 30 g (2 tablespoons) of honey for a sweeter and more balanced flavor.
- For a spicy kick, add 7 g (1 teaspoon) of red pepper flakes.
Cooking Methods
- Grill the chicken at 180°C (350°F) for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
- For oven-cooked chicken, bake at 180°C (350°F) for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
Variations and Ideas for Cava Grill Chicken
Take your Cava Grill chicken recipe to the next level with these exciting variations. From unique marinade flavors to creative toppings and sides, the possibilities are endless.
- Lemon-Herb Marinade: Mix 60 ml / 1/4 cup olive oil, 30 g / 2 tablespoons freshly chopped rosemary, and 30 ml / 2 tablespoons lemon juice for a bright, herby flavor. Marinate for 2-3 hours at room temperature (around 20°C / 68°F) for optimal flavor.
- Spicy Harissa Chicken: Add 15 g / 1 tablespoon harissa paste to your marinade for an extra kick of heat. Grill at 200°C / 400°F for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
- Korean-Style BBQ: Whisk together 60 ml / 1/4 cup soy sauce, 30 ml / 2 tablespoons honey, and 15 g / 1 tablespoon Gochujang for a sweet and savory glaze. Brush during the last 2 minutes of grilling at 220°C / 425°F.
These variations offer a range of flavor profiles and cooking times to suit your taste preferences. Feel free to experiment and combine different elements to create your perfect Cava Grill chicken recipe.
How to Store and Reheat Cava Grill Chicken
This Cava Grill Chicken recipe is so delicious, you’ll want to enjoy it again and again. To keep your leftovers fresh and flavorful, here’s how to store and reheat it properly.
Refrigeration
Allow the chicken to cool completely before storing. Transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. For best results, store the chicken in a single layer to ensure even cooling.
Freezing
For longer storage, freeze the cooled chicken in an airtight freezer-safe container or bag. It will keep well in the freezer for up to 3 months.
Reheating
- Refrigerated Chicken:
- Frozen Chicken:
Reheat in the oven at 175°C (350°F) for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave for 1-2 minutes.
Thaw the chicken in the refrigerator overnight. Then, reheat it in the oven at 175°C (350°F) for 20-25 minutes, or until heated through.
Troubleshooting Common Issues with Cava Grill Chicken
Don’t let minor mishaps ruin your delicious Cava Grill chicken. We’re here to help you troubleshoot common problems, so you can achieve perfect results every time.
Overcooking
- Issue: Chicken is overcooked and dry.
- Fix: Check the internal temperature regularly. Remove from heat when it reaches 74°C (165°F) or 68°C (155°F) for breast meat. Let it rest for 5-7 minutes before serving.
Underseasoning
- Issue: Chicken lacks flavor.
- Fix: Increase the amount of seasoning blend or add more lemon juice and olive oil. Taste and adjust seasoning as you go.
Grilling Issues
- Issue: Chicken sticks to the grill.
- Fix: Make sure the grill is clean and brush the chicken with oil before grilling. This will prevent sticking and promote even cooking.
- Issue: Chicken is not cooked evenly.
- Fix: Rotate the chicken regularly to ensure even cooking. Use a thermometer to check the internal temperature.
By addressing these common issues, you’ll be on your way to creating mouth-watering Cava Grill chicken that’s sure to impress.
Nutrition Facts and Information for Cava Grill Chicken
Each serving of Cava Grill Chicken (120 g / 4 oz) contains approximately 140 calories, with a macronutrient breakdown of 25 g protein, 3 g fat, and 0 g carbohydrates.
- Calories per serving: 140
- Macronutrients: 25 g protein, 3 g fat, 0 g carbohydrates
This recipe is GF (gluten-free) and DF (dairy-free), but not vegan due to the chicken content. For an easy and nutritious meal, try our Cava Grill Chicken recipe, perfect for a healthy and balanced diet.
- What is the best way to store leftover Cava Grill Chicken for later use? Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) before consuming.
- Can I substitute chicken breast with chicken thighs in this recipe? Yes, you can use chicken thighs instead of breast. However, keep in mind that thighs may take slightly longer to cook and may result in a slightly different texture.
- How do I prevent the chicken from drying out while grilling? To prevent drying out, make sure to marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes, and don’t press down on the chicken with your spatula while grilling. This will help retain juices and keep the chicken moist.
- Can I make this recipe in the oven instead of on the grill? Yes, you can make this recipe in the oven. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and cook the chicken for 20-25 minutes or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Flip the chicken halfway through cooking for even cooking.
Frequently Asked Questions About Cava Grill Chicken
Got questions about making delicious Cava Grill chicken at home? We’ve got the answers!
How long does it take to cook Cava Grill chicken?
The cooking time depends on the thickness of your chicken pieces. Generally, you’ll want to grill them for about 6-8 minutes per side for medium-rare, or until the internal temperature reaches 74°C (165°F).
Can I use a different cut of chicken?
Absolutely! While the recipe typically calls for boneless, skinless chicken thighs, you can use other cuts like breasts or even drumsticks. Adjust the cooking time accordingly.
What if I don’t have a grill?
No problem! You can easily pan-fry or bake the chicken in the oven. Simply heat some oil in a skillet over medium-high heat or preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F) and follow the recipe instructions.
What are some good side dishes for Cava Grill chicken?
Cava Grill chicken pairs well with a variety of sides, such as roasted vegetables, quinoa salad, or a simple green salad.
Key Takeaways from Our Cava Grill Chicken Recipe
Mastering the Cava Grill chicken recipe requires attention to a few key details. Here’s what you need to know:
- Marinate for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat and ensure tender, juicy chicken.
- Use a mix of spices for a complex flavor profile, including cumin, coriander, and paprika.
- Don’t overcook the chicken; aim for an internal temperature of 74°C (165°F) to prevent dryness.
- For the best results, grill over medium-high heat to achieve a crispy exterior and a smoky flavor.
- Don’t forget the yogurt sauce, which adds a tangy, creamy element to the dish.
By following these key takeaways, you’ll be able to create a Cava Grill chicken dish that’s both flavorful and satisfying. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner in the kitchen, these tips will help you achieve success every time.
Enjoy Your Delicious Cava Grill Chicken
That’s it! Your flavorful and juicy Cava Grill Chicken is ready to enjoy. Serve it with your favorite sides like rice pilaf, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Don’t be afraid to experiment with different seasonings and marinades. Add a pinch of smoked paprika for a smoky flavor, or try a citrus marinade for a bright and tangy twist.
Looking for more delicious chicken recipes? Check out our collection of easy chicken recipes for inspiration!
