🔥 Cava Chicken Recipe – Love CAVA’s famous grilled chicken? 🥘✨ This copycat version is packed with juicy flavors, authentic Greek seasoning, and the perfect creamy sauce. Try this easy, restaurant-style recipe at home and enjoy a true Mediterranean feast! 🇬🇷🔥
Jump to Recipe👨🍳 Introduction
If you’ve ever tried CAVA’s grilled chicken, you know it’s juicy, smoky, and packed with Mediterranean flavors! 🍗🔥 That perfect balance of herbs, spices, and tangy sauces makes every bite unforgettable.
As a Greek master chef with years of experience in traditional Mediterranean cuisine, I can tell you this—getting that authentic Cava Chicken taste at home is easier than you think! ✅ Today, I’m sharing a simple but game-changing recipe that brings the same bold flavors straight to your kitchen.
🥗 Whether you serve it in a bowl, wrap, or with fresh pita bread, this copycat version will make you feel like you’re dining at a seaside taverna in Greece. 🇬🇷 Let’s get started and bring some Mediterranean magic to your table! ✨
Table of Contents
👨🍳 The Secret Behind CAVA’s Famous Chicken!
🥘 What Makes the Cava Chicken Recipe So Special?
If you’ve ever been to CAVA, you already know how incredibly flavorful, juicy, and tender their grilled chicken is. But what if you could recreate the same authentic taste at home? 🤔
✅ This Cava Chicken Recipe is packed with bold Mediterranean flavors 🌿
✅ Uses a perfect blend of spices, fresh herbs, and a yogurt-based marinade 🍋🥄
✅ Delivers restaurant-style grilled chicken that’s juicy, smoky, and absolutely delicious 🔥
🔥 The Secret? A Perfect Mediterranean Marinade!
The real magic behind this recipe lies in its marinade. This isn’t your average chicken seasoning—it’s a Greek-style flavor bomb! 💥
✔️ Olive oil + Greek yogurt = Locks in moisture & makes the chicken extra tender 🧈🥄
✔️ Lemon juice + garlic = Adds a zesty, garlicky kick 🍋🧄
✔️ Oregano, paprika & cumin = Bring out the classic Greek flavor 🌿✨
✔️ Slow marination = Deepens the taste, making the chicken juicy and aromatic 😋
🏠 Can You Make an Authentic Copycat Version at Home? (YES! Here’s How 👌)
Good news—you don’t need a fancy kitchen or a professional grill to make this work! 🎯
🔹 Simple ingredients = Everything is easy to find at your local grocery store 🛒
🔹 Minimal effort = Just marinate, grill, and enjoy! 🔥
🔹 Works with any cooking method – Stovetop, oven, air fryer, or grill (your choice!) 🍳🍗
👨🍳 Greek Master Chef’s Pro Tips for Authentic Flavor!
📝 Want your chicken to taste just like CAVA’s? Follow these expert tips:
💡 Always use fresh lemon juice! 🍋 It brightens up the flavors and makes the chicken more tender.
💡 Don’t skip the Greek yogurt! It locks in moisture and creates that creamy, flavorful texture.
💡 Grill on high heat for a smoky, charred effect! 🔥 If using a stovetop, a cast-iron pan works best.
💡 Let the chicken rest before slicing! This keeps it super juicy and tender.
📌 Why This Recipe is a Must-Try!
✅ Easy, Quick & Healthy – Perfect for meal prep, family dinners, or protein-packed lunches 🍽️
✅ Tastes JUST Like the Restaurant Version! – Same juicy texture, same bold Mediterranean flavor 💯
✅ Versatile & Customizable – Serve it in bowls, wraps, salads, or on its own! 🥗🌯
🔥 Now, let’s move on to the ingredients and step-by-step cooking method! 🚀
🥘 What is CAVA Chicken? – The Mediterranean Magic!
CAVA’s signature grilled chicken is more than just a meal—it’s a flavor-packed Mediterranean experience! 🇬🇷✨ With the perfect balance of herbs, spices, and expert grilling techniques, this Cava Chicken Recipe is a game-changer for anyone who loves bold and healthy flavors.
🏛️ A Brief History of CAVA & Its Famous Grilled Chicken
CAVA is a popular fast-casual restaurant that brings the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean to the modern world. 🌍
✔️ Founded in 2006 by three childhood friends of Greek descent, CAVA’s mission was simple: bring fresh, healthy, and bold Mediterranean flavors to the U.S. 🇬🇷💙
✔️ Their grilled chicken quickly became a customer favorite for its juicy texture, smoky aroma, and zesty Mediterranean seasoning. 🔥🍗
✔️ The recipe is inspired by traditional Greek street food, featuring time-tested marination techniques and fire-grilled perfection.
🌍 How CAVA Chicken Represents Greek & Mediterranean Cuisine
This Cava Chicken Recipe stays true to the heart of Greek and Mediterranean cooking by focusing on:
✅ Fresh, wholesome ingredients – No artificial flavors, just pure Mediterranean goodness! 🥗🍋
✅ Healthy and balanced flavors – The combination of lean protein, olive oil, garlic, and citrus makes it both nutritious and delicious. 🧄🍗
✅ Time-honored cooking techniques – Greek cuisine values slow marination, high-heat grilling, and bold spices. 🌿🔥
🧂 The Key Elements That Make CAVA Chicken So Flavorful
The secret to the incredible taste of this Cava Chicken Recipe lies in three things:
1️⃣ The Perfect Marinade – A Flavor Explosion!
🌿 Olive oil – Infuses richness & keeps the chicken juicy.
🧄 Garlic & herbs – Adds depth & warmth to every bite.
🍋 Lemon juice – Tenderizes the chicken while adding a zesty kick.
🧂 Greek spices – A bold mix of oregano, cumin, paprika & black pepper for that signature Mediterranean taste.
2️⃣ Expert Grilling – The Charred, Smoky Goodness!
🔥 High-heat grilling creates a crispy outer crust while keeping the inside tender & juicy.
🔥 Charred edges add a smoky, caramelized flavor that makes every bite unforgettable.
🔥 Resting time post-grilling ensures the juices are sealed in for maximum tenderness.
3️⃣ Signature Sauces – The Final Touch!
No Cava Chicken Recipe is complete without the iconic Mediterranean sauces! 🥄✨
✔️ Tzatziki Sauce – A refreshing yogurt-cucumber-garlic dip that balances the bold flavors. 🥒🥛
✔️ Harissa Sauce – A spicy, smoky North African chili paste that adds heat. 🔥🌶️
✔️ Hummus – Creamy, rich, and nutty—a perfect pairing for grilled chicken! 🥙
🚀 Why You’ll Love This Cava Chicken Recipe!
✅ Healthier than takeout – No preservatives, just fresh Mediterranean ingredients! 🥗
✅ Packed with protein – Great for meal prep, high-protein diets, or fitness meals. 💪
✅ Endless serving options – Enjoy it in bowls, wraps, salads, or with pita bread. 🌯🥙
✅ Super easy to make – Just marinate, grill, and serve—simple yet unbelievably flavorful! 👌🔥
🔥 Now, let’s dive into the ingredients you’ll need to recreate this Cava Chicken Recipe at home! 🛒👨🍳
🛒 Ingredients – The Perfect Greek Flavor!
To make this Cava Chicken Recipe at home, you’ll need the right combination of fresh ingredients and authentic Mediterranean spices! 🌿🍋🔥
✅ For the Chicken – The Star of the Dish!
The secret to achieving the juicy, smoky, and bold flavor of CAVA-style chicken starts with:
🍗 Boneless chicken thighs or breasts – Thighs give extra juiciness, but breasts work well too!
🫒 Olive oil – Keeps the chicken moist and enhances the Mediterranean flavor.
🍋 Fresh lemon juice – Adds tanginess and helps tenderize the meat.
🧄 Garlic (minced or grated) – A must for that rich, bold aroma.
🥄 Greek yogurt – Locks in moisture and gives the marinade a creamy texture.
🌿 Authentic Mediterranean Spices:
✔️ Oregano – Classic Greek herb for an earthy, aromatic taste.
✔️ Paprika – Adds a mild smokiness and a beautiful golden color.
✔️ Cumin – Enhances warmth and depth in the flavor.
✔️ Salt & black pepper – To balance all the flavors perfectly.
✅ For the Signature Sauce – The Ultimate Flavor Boost!
No Cava Chicken Recipe is complete without its legendary Mediterranean sauces! 🥄✨
🥒 Homemade Tzatziki Sauce – A refreshing, creamy dip made with:
✔️ Greek yogurt – The base for a thick, creamy texture.
✔️ Grated cucumber – Adds a fresh, cooling effect.
✔️ Garlic & dill – Classic Greek seasoning for a bold, herby punch.
✔️ Lemon juice & olive oil – For a hint of citrus and richness.
🍋 Creamy Hummus & Lemon Herb Dressing – For an extra savory, tangy, and nutty touch!
✅ Optional Add-ons for a Full CAVA-Style Bowl
Want the true CAVA experience? Pair your grilled Cava Chicken Recipe with these classic Mediterranean sides:
🥗 Greek Salad – A fresh and crunchy mix of:
✔️ Tomatoes – Juicy and vibrant. 🍅
✔️ Cucumbers – Crisp and refreshing. 🥒
✔️ Red onions – Slightly sweet with a sharp bite. 🧅
✔️ Kalamata olives – Briny and full of flavor. 🫒
✔️ Feta cheese – Creamy, salty, and perfectly crumbly. 🧀
🌯 Warm Pita Bread or Grain Bowls – Perfect for serving your Cava Chicken Recipe!
✔️ Soft pita bread – For wrapping or scooping.
✔️ Quinoa or brown rice – A hearty, healthy base.
🔥 Why These Ingredients Work Together
✔️ Balanced flavors – Tangy, savory, smoky, and fresh in every bite.
✔️ Authentic Mediterranean taste – Inspired by real Greek cooking.
✔️ Easy & accessible – Everything is simple to find and quick to prepare.
Now that we have all our ingredients ready, let’s move on to marination & grilling! 👨🍳🔥
Ingredients Shop
- Groceries
➡️ Grab It on Amazon - Amazon Fresh
➡️ Grab It on Amazon - Gourmet
➡️ Grab It on Amazon - Spices
➡️ Grab It on Amazon
📝 Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions – Mastering the Art!
Want to recreate the CAVA Chicken Recipe at home just like the restaurant? Follow these expert-approved steps from a Greek chef to achieve the perfectly marinated, smoky, and juicy grilled chicken! 🔥👨🍳
🔥 Step 1: The Perfect Greek Marinade
The marination is the secret behind CAVA-style grilled chicken! It infuses the meat with bold Mediterranean flavors and keeps it incredibly juicy.
🥄 How to Prepare the Marinade:
✅ In a bowl, whisk together:
- ¼ cup olive oil 🫒
- ¼ cup Greek yogurt 🥄 (for tenderness)
- Juice of 1 lemon 🍋 (for freshness)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced) 🧄 (for depth)
- 1 tsp oregano, 1 tsp paprika, ½ tsp cumin 🌿 (authentic Greek spices)
- Salt & black pepper to taste
🕒 Why Marination is Key:
✔️ Helps the spices penetrate deep into the chicken.
✔️ Yogurt tenderizes the meat, making it melt-in-your-mouth soft.
✔️ Lemon juice enhances the smoky grilled flavor.
🛑 Pro Tip:
Let the chicken marinate for at least 2 hours (overnight is best!) for maximum flavor absorption.
🔥 Step 2: Grilling to Perfection
Now that your chicken is infused with delicious Mediterranean goodness, it’s time to grill it to perfection!
🍽️ Best Cooking Methods:
✔️ Outdoor grill: The best choice for that authentic smoky char. 🔥
✔️ Stovetop: Use a cast-iron pan for a crispy, golden sear. 🍳
✔️ Air fryer: A healthier option for a quick & crispy finish. 💨
👌 Greek Chef’s Pro Tip for Perfect Grill Marks:
1️⃣ Heat your grill or pan on high heat for 5 minutes before adding the chicken.
2️⃣ Place the chicken on the grill without moving it for 4-5 minutes.
3️⃣ Flip only once, then cook for another 4-5 minutes until fully cooked.
4️⃣ Let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing – this keeps it juicy!
🔥 Step 3: Assembling the Ultimate CAVA-Style Bowl
Now comes the fun part – building your CAVA-inspired meal! 🥗
✅ Start with a base:
- Quinoa or brown rice 🍚
- Warm pita bread 🌯
✅ Layer the grilled chicken:
- Slice it into thin strips and place it on top.
✅ Add Mediterranean toppings:
- Hummus & tzatziki for creaminess 🥄
- Greek salad (tomatoes, cucumbers, onions, olives, feta) 🥗
- Pickled onions or banana peppers for a tangy kick 🌶️
✅ Drizzle with extra dressing:
- A squeeze of lemon juice & a drizzle of olive oil for that final touch! 🍋✨
🔥 Why This CAVA Chicken Recipe is a Must-Try!
✔️ Authentic Mediterranean taste – Just like your favorite CAVA bowl!
✔️ Perfectly balanced flavors – Smoky, tangy, creamy, and fresh in every bite.
✔️ Easy to make at home – Simple ingredients, restaurant-quality results.
Now, take a bite and enjoy the best homemade CAVA Chicken Recipe ever! 😍🔥
💡 Pro Chef Tips for Authentic Greek Flavor!
Want to take your CAVA Chicken Recipe to the next level? 🤔 Follow these expert-approved tips from a Greek chef to unlock restaurant-quality flavor and texture at home! 👨🍳🔥
✅ The Secret Ingredient That Makes CAVA Chicken So Delicious 🤫
Every great dish has a secret ingredient—and for CAVA-style chicken, it’s… smoked paprika! 🌶️✨
✔️ Adds a subtle smokiness without using a grill.
✔️ Enhances the color of the chicken, making it beautifully golden.
✔️ Blends perfectly with Mediterranean spices for that signature flavor.
🛑 Pro Tip:
Always toast your spices for a few seconds before adding them to the marinade—this releases maximum aroma & depth of flavor! 🔥
✅ Best Greek Herbs & Spices to Use for Extra Flavor 🌿
To get that authentic Greek taste, you need the right blend of herbs & spices. Here’s what Greek chefs swear by:
🌿 Oregano – The heart of Mediterranean seasoning!
🧄 Garlic powder – For a bold, rich taste.
🌶️ Paprika (smoked & sweet) – A CAVA-style must-have!
🥄 Cumin – Adds warm, earthy notes.
🍋 Lemon zest – Gives a fresh, citrusy kick.
🧂 Sea salt & black pepper – Enhances all flavors.
🛑 Pro Tip:
Fresh vs. Dried? Always use dried oregano & fresh garlic for the most intense flavor!
✅ Should You Use Chicken Breasts or Thighs? 🍗 (Surprising Answer!)
Many people wonder: Which cut is better for CAVA Chicken?
✔️ Chicken thighs 🏆 – The best choice!
- More flavorful due to natural fat content.
- Stays juicy even after grilling.
- Crispier edges when grilled perfectly.
✔️ Chicken breasts – A leaner option
- Cooks faster but can dry out if overcooked.
- Needs extra marination for the best results.
🛑 Pro Tip:
For super juicy chicken breasts, pound them lightly before marinating to ensure even cooking! 🔥
✅ How to Get Restaurant-Quality Texture at Home 🔥
Want that perfect charred yet juicy texture just like CAVA? Follow these pro tips:
🔥 High Heat First, Then Medium:
✔️ Start with high heat to sear the chicken and lock in juices.
✔️ Lower to medium heat to cook evenly without drying out.
🔥 Let the Chicken Rest Before Slicing:
✔️ Resting for 5 minutes allows the juices to redistribute, making it extra tender.
🔥 Use a Cast-Iron Pan (If Not Grilling):
✔️ A cast-iron skillet mimics a grill, giving you the same crispy, charred edges!
🛑 Pro Tip:
For even more restaurant-quality taste, brush the chicken with a little olive oil & lemon juice right before serving. 🍋✨
📌 Quick Comparison Table for CAVA-Style Chicken
| Feature | Chicken Thighs 🍗 | Chicken Breasts 🍗 |
|---|---|---|
| Flavor | More rich & juicy ✅ | Lighter & milder ✅ |
| Texture | Tender & slightly crispy ✅ | Can be dry if overcooked ❌ |
| Best Cooking Method | Grilling or stovetop ✅ | Air frying or baking ✅ |
| Marination Time | At least 2 hours (best overnight) ✅ | Needs extra marination for tenderness ✅ |
| Best For | Authentic CAVA-style flavor ✅ | A leaner, healthier option ✅ |
🔥 Final Takeaway – Master the Perfect CAVA Chicken Recipe!
✔️ Use the right herbs & spices for an authentic Greek touch.
✔️ Chicken thighs = juicier, chicken breasts = leaner.
✔️ Grill on high, then medium heat for the perfect texture.
✔️ Rest the chicken before slicing to keep it tender & juicy.
Now, you’re all set to create the ultimate CAVA Chicken Recipe at home! Enjoy every bite of this Mediterranean masterpiece! 😍🔥
Cava Chicken Recipe – Copycat Version That Tastes Amazing
Course: Main DishCuisine: Mediterranean4
servings10
minutes15
minutes320
kcal2
hours25
minutesIf you love CAVA-style Mediterranean bowls, you’ll love this juicy, flavorful CAVA Chicken Recipe! Marinated in a zesty blend of Greek yogurt, olive oil, and aromatic spices, this chicken is perfect for grain bowls, wraps, or salads. Let’s make restaurant-quality CAVA chicken at home! 🍗✨
Ingredients
- For the Chicken:
✅ 1.5 lbs boneless chicken thighs (or chicken breasts, sliced) 🍗
✅ ¼ cup Greek yogurt (for tenderness) 🥄
✅ 2 tbsp olive oil (for moisture & richness) 🫒
✅ 2 tbsp lemon juice (freshly squeezed) 🍋
✅ 3 cloves garlic, minced 🧄
✅ 1 tsp smoked paprika 🌶️
✅ 1 tsp oregano 🌿
✅ ½ tsp cumin ✨
✅ ½ tsp black pepper 🧂
✅ 1 tsp sea salt 🧂
- For the Signature Sauce:
✅ ½ cup tzatziki sauce (Greek yogurt, cucumber, garlic, dill) 🥒
✅ ¼ cup hummus (for a creamy texture) 🥄
✅ 1 tbsp lemon herb dressing 🍋
- Optional Add-ons for a Full CAVA-Style Bowl:
🥗 Greek salad (tomatoes, cucumbers, red onions, olives, feta)
🌯 Warm pita bread or grain bowls (quinoa, brown rice)
Directions
- Step 1: The Perfect Greek Marinade
- In a large bowl, mix Greek yogurt, olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and spices.
- Coat the chicken thoroughly in the marinade.
- Cover and let it marinate for at least 2 hours (overnight for the best flavor).
- Step 2: Grilling to Perfection
- Grill Method:
- Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
- Cook chicken for 5-6 minutes per side until golden & slightly charred.
- Let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
- Stovetop Method:
- Heat a cast-iron pan with 1 tbsp olive oil over medium heat.
- Sear chicken for 6-7 minutes per side until fully cooked.
- Pro Tip: Use a meat thermometer – the internal temp should reach 165°F (75°C).
- Step 3: Assembling the Ultimate CAVA-Style Bowl
- Layer your bowl with quinoa or rice.
- Add the grilled chicken slices on top.
- Drizzle with tzatziki sauce & hummus.
- Garnish with Greek salad & lemon dressing.
- Serve with warm pita bread & enjoy! 😍
📌 Recipe Notes & Pro Chef Tips
- ✔️ Best Chicken Cut? Thighs = juicier; Breasts = leaner.
✔️ Want extra smoky flavor? Add ½ tsp smoked paprika to the marinade.
✔️ No grill? Use a stovetop grill pan or air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for 12 minutes.
❓ FAQs – Everything You Need to Know About CAVA Chicken Recipe!
1️⃣ What makes the CAVA Chicken Recipe so special?
The CAVA Chicken Recipe is famous for its Greek-inspired marinade made with Greek yogurt, olive oil, lemon juice, and Mediterranean spices. This combination makes the chicken juicy, tender, and packed with authentic Greek flavors!
2️⃣ What is the best way to cook this CAVA Chicken Recipe?
🔥 Grill – For an authentic smoky and charred flavor ♨️
🍳 Stovetop – Use a cast-iron skillet for crispy edges
🍽️ Air Fryer – Cook at 375°F (190°C) for 12-15 minutes for a quick and healthy option
3️⃣ Can I make this CAVA Chicken Recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! ✅ You can:
🧊 Marinate the chicken a day in advance for better flavor
🥡 Store cooked chicken in the fridge for up to 4 days
🔥 Reheat it in a pan, oven, or air fryer for a fresh taste
4️⃣ Can I make the CAVA Chicken Recipe dairy-free?
Yes! Simply replace Greek yogurt with:
🥥 Coconut yogurt – For a creamy texture
🍋 Extra lemon juice u0026amp; olive oil – For a light and tangy marinade
5️⃣ Can I meal prep this CAVA Chicken Recipe?
Yes! Cook a large batch and store it for easy meal prep. Use it for:
🥙 Salads – Toss in a Greek bowl for a quick meal
🌮 Wraps – Roll it in a pita with veggies u0026amp; sauce
🥘 Rice Bowls – Add grains and roasted veggies
💬 Final Thoughts – Your Turn to Try This Epic Recipe!
✅ This CAVA Chicken Recipe is quick, delicious, and foolproof! 🚀 Whether you’re a beginner or a kitchen pro, this Greek-inspired dish will impress everyone!
✅ Perfect for meal prep & family dinners – Cook in bulk and enjoy throughout the week! Whether in bowls, wraps, or salads, this chicken stays juicy and flavorful. 😍
✅ Your turn! Try out this CAVA Chicken Recipe and bring Mediterranean flavors to your home. Let me know in the comments how it turned out for you! 👇🍗🔥
💡 Pro Tip: Share your plated dish on social media and tag me – I’d love to see your version! 📸🥗✨
Nutrition Facts
4 servings per container
Calories320
- Amount Per Serving% Daily Value *
- Total Fat
14g
22%
- Amount Per Serving% Daily Value *
- Protein 38g 76%
* The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
