Cava Grill Chicken Recipe – Hungarian Chef

Are you looking for an easy and delicious way to enjoy grilled chicken?

Then look no further than this amazing Cava Grill Chicken! This simple yet flavorful recipe is sure to be a hit with your family or friends. Not only is it delicious, but it’s also incredibly easy to make. 

In this article, we’ll take a look at what cava grill chicken is, why you’ll love it, the ingredients you’ll need, a step-by-step guide for making this delicious dish, notes, nutrition information, how to store it, variations, and more. So let’s get started!

What Is Cava Grill Chicken?

Cava, also known as Cava Grill, a fast-casual restaurant chain that specializes in Mediterranean-inspired cuisine and has its branches across the United States.

Among their menu, Cava Grill Chicken has a great demand since it is a Mediterranean-inspired dish made by marinating chicken in a mixture of spices and herbs, then grilling it to perfection. 

The dish combines the flavors of oregano, black pepper, thyme, lemon to create a delicious and unique flavor that your family or friends will love. 

The dish is often served with a fresh salad or vegetables, making it a great way to enjoy a healthy and hearty meal.

Why You’ll Love This Cava Grill Chicken?

There are many reasons why you’ll love this Cava Grill Chicken. First of all, it’s incredibly easy to make. 

All you need to do is mix up the marinade, let it sit for a few hours, then grill the chicken. You don’t need any special tools or skills to make this dish, so it’s great for beginner cooks. Additionally, it’s also incredibly flavorful and delicious. 

The marinade adds a ton of flavor to the chicken, making it incredibly juicy and flavorful. Finally, this recipe is a great way to enjoy a healthy dinner. The chicken is packed with protein and the herbs and spices add a ton of flavor without adding a ton of calories.

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Ingredients

To prepare the Cava Grill Chicken you’ll be needing these following ingredients.

• Chicken (2 chicken breasts / ½ pound – boneless and skinless): This is the main protein source for the dish. Chicken breasts are a lean and versatile meat that can absorb flavors well.
• Black pepper (⅛ tsp): Black pepper adds a subtle heat and enhances the overall flavor of the dish. It complements the other spices and seasonings. 
• Oregano (¼ tbsp): Oregano contributes a distinct and aromatic flavor to the chicken. It is a common herb in Mediterranean cuisine and pairs well with chicken. 
• Red Wine Vinegar (½ tbsp): Red wine vinegar adds acidity to the dish, balancing the flavors and providing a tangy kick. It also helps tenderize the chicken. 
• Extra virgin olive oil (2 tbsp): Olive oil not only adds richness to the dish but also helps to cook and flavor the chicken. It contributes to the overall Mediterranean taste. 
• Sea Salt (⅛ tsp): Sea salt enhances the natural flavors of the ingredients and provides seasoning to the dish. It is a crucial element for bringing out the taste of the chicken. 
• Greek Yogurt (½ cup): Greek yogurt adds creaminess and a slightly tangy flavor to the marinade. It also helps to tenderize the chicken and contributes to the overall richness of the dish. 
• Lemon (¼ of a whole lemon): Lemon juice provides a bright and citrusy flavor, cutting through the richness of the other ingredients. It adds a refreshing element to the dish. 
• Dried Thyme (¼ tbsp): Thyme is an aromatic herb that complements the oregano and adds depth to the flavor profile of the dish. It contributes to the overall Mediterranean herb blend. 
• Optional – Parsley or Cilantro (for garnish): Parsley or cilantro can be used for garnish, adding a fresh and herbaceous element to the final presentation. It also provides a pop of color to the dish. The choice between parsley and cilantro can be based on personal preference.

The Effects of Ingredients in this Recipe

The oregano, thyme, black pepper, and lemon all work together to create a delicious flavor for the chicken. The oregano, and thyme add a woodsy, herby flavor. The lemon juice adds a hint of brightness and acidity to the dish. The sea salt, and black pepper help to bring out all the flavors and add a bit of seasoning.

Directions

Making this Cava Grill Chicken is incredibly easy. Here’s a step-by-step guide for making this delicious dish:

Step 1: Gather All Ingredients

Ensure you have all the ingredients previously mentioned ready for a seamless cooking process.

Step 2: Prepare the Marinade

In a mixing bowl, combine: olive oil, greek yogurt, lemon juice, oregano, thyme, sea salt, red wine vinegar and pepper; then mix the ingredients thoroughly until a smooth and creamy marinade is formed.

Step 3: Marinate the Chicken

Place chicken breasts in a ziplock bag or on a plate. Pour the prepared marinade over the chicken, ensuring each piece is thoroughly coated. Refrigerate the chicken for a minimum of 2 hours to allow for optimal flavor absorption; or you can leave it overnight and that’s even better.

Step 4: Preheat the Grill/Oven

Preheat the grill or oven to medium-high heat (to 350°F ). Brush the grill grates with olive oil to prevent the chicken from sticking. 

Step 5: Grill the Chicken

Remove chicken from the marinade, letting excess drip off. Grill chicken for 6-8 minutes per side or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the chicken is cooked through. This should take about 20-30 minutes or a few minutes more, depending on the thickness of the chicken breasts.

Step 6: Rest and Garnish 

Once cooked, remove the chicken from the grill. Allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes. This helps redistribute the juices, ensuring a moist and flavorful result. 

Step 7: Serve

Once the chicken is cooked through, remove it from the grill and serve it with your favorite sides, such as rice, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad. So grab your fork and enjoy! 

Step 8: Garnish

As an extra touch, you can choose to sprinkle chopped parsley or cilantro for a burst of fresh and herbaceous flavor.

Notes

Here are a few tips for making the perfect Cava Grill Chicken:

• Make sure to marinate the chicken for at least an hour or two, but up to overnight is even better. This will help the chicken absorb all the delicious flavors of the marinade.
• Be sure to preheat the grill before grilling the chicken. This will ensure that the chicken cooks evenly and doesn’t stick to the grill.
• To test if the chicken is done, insert an instant-read thermometer into the thickest part of the chicken. The internal temperature should reach 165°F.
• To keep the chicken from drying out, brush it with a bit of olive oil before grilling.
• To add a bit of smokiness to the dish, add some wood chips to the grill before grilling the chicken.

Nutrition Information

This Cava Grill Chicken is a great way to enjoy a healthy and delicious dinner. One serving of this dish contains approximately –

• 280 calories 
• 10 grams of fat
• 3 grams of carbohydrates
• 36 grams of protein

How to Store Cava Grill Chicken?

This Cava Grill Chicken can be stored in the refrigerator for up to four days. To store it, simply place the chicken in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator.

Variations

This Cava Grill Chicken is incredibly versatile and can be easily adapted to your tastes. Here are a few variations to try:

• For a spicy kick, add a bit of cayenne pepper or red chili flakes to the marinade.
• For a smokier flavor, add some smoked paprika to the marinade.
• For a tangy twist, add some lime juice to the marinade.
• For a Mediterranean twist, add some fresh herbs like basil, or rosemary to the marinade.
• For a sweetness, add a bit of honey or maple syrup to the marinade.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What type of chicken is best for cava grill chicken?

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are the best choice for this dish. However, boneless, skinless chicken thighs can also be used.

2. Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried herbs?

Yes, you can use fresh herbs instead of dried herbs. Just make sure to double the amount of fresh herbs used.

3. Can I make this cava grill chicken recipe in the oven?

Yes, you can make this recipe in the oven. Preheat the oven to 375°F and bake the chicken for 30-35 minutes, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.

4. How long does it take to marinate the chicken?

The chicken should marinate for at least one – two hours, but up to overnight is even better. This will help the chicken absorb all the delicious flavors of the marinade.

5. Can I freeze this Cava Grill Chicken?

Yes, you can freeze this Cava Grill Chicken. Place the chicken in an airtight container or a freezer-safe bag and store it in the freezer for up to three months.

6. What should I serve with this Cava Grill Chicken?

This Cava Grill Chicken goes great with a fresh salad or vegetables. It also pairs nicely with roasted potatoes or a grain like quinoa or couscous.

7. Can I use boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, you can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead of breasts. The cooking time will be slightly longer, but the flavor will still be delicious.

Conclusion

Cava Grill Chicken is a delicious and easy-to-make Mediterranean-inspired dish. The marinade adds a ton of flavor to the chicken, making it incredibly juicy and flavorful. It’s also a great way to enjoy a healthy dinner. 

With just a few simple ingredients and a few easy steps, you can have this delicious dish on the table in no time. So why not give this Cava Grill Chicken a try tonight!

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