Hello, Good News! If you are looking for a tasty and easy way to prepare chicken, you might want to try this cava grill chicken recipe. Cava grill chicken is a dish that originated in the Mediterranean region, where chicken is marinated in yogurt and spices, grilled to perfection, and served with various sauces and salads. It is a great option for a weeknight dinner or a weekend barbecue, as it is flavorful, tender, and nutritious.
In this article, we will show you how to make cava grill chicken at home, using simple ingredients and a few steps. We will also give you some tips and tricks to make your chicken even more delicious, as well as some suggestions for what to serve with it. Whether you are a fan of cava grill or just want to try something new, this recipe will not disappoint you. Let’s get started!
What is Cava Grill Chicken?
Cava grill chicken is a type of grilled chicken that is inspired by the cuisine of the Mediterranean region, especially Greece and Turkey. The name “cava” comes from the restaurant chain Cava, which specializes in Mediterranean food and offers a variety of dishes, including cava grill chicken. Cava grill chicken is one of the most popular items on the menu, as it is juicy, tender, and full of flavor.
The secret to cava grill chicken is the marinade, which consists of yogurt and spices. Yogurt helps to tenderize the chicken and keep it moist, while spices add depth and complexity to the taste. Some of the common spices used in cava grill chicken are oregano, thyme, garlic, lemon, and red wine vinegar. The marinade can be adjusted according to your preference, by adding more or less of each spice, or by introducing other ingredients such as honey, mustard, or paprika.
How to Make Cava Grill Chicken Marinade
Making cava grill chicken marinade is very easy and quick. All you need are a few ingredients and a bowl. Here are the steps to follow:
- In a small bowl, whisk together 1/4 cup of olive oil, 3 tablespoons of fresh lemon juice (about half a lemon), 1 tablespoon of red wine vinegar (not white or balsamic), 2 teaspoons of dried oregano, 1/2 teaspoon of dried thyme, salt and pepper to taste.
- In a large bowl, add 1 cup of plain yogurt (preferably Greek yogurt) and stir in the oil and lemon mixture.
- Add 4 or 5 boneless and skinless chicken breasts (or any other cut of chicken you like) to the yogurt marinade and toss to coat well.
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least an hour or up to overnight. The longer you marinate the chicken, the more flavor it will absorb.
How to Grill Cava Grill Chicken
Grilling cava grill chicken is also very simple and fast. You can use either an outdoor grill or an indoor grill pan. Here are the steps to follow:
- Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat and lightly oil the grates.
- Remove the chicken from the marinade and shake off any excess. Discard the remaining marinade.
- Grill the chicken for about 15 minutes, turning once halfway through, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). You can use a meat thermometer to check for doneness.
- Transfer the chicken to a cutting board and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing or serving.
What to Serve with Cava Grill Chicken?
Cava grill chicken is a versatile dish that can be served with many different sides and accompaniments. Here are some of our favorites:
- Tzatziki sauce: This is a creamy and refreshing sauce made with yogurt, cucumber, garlic, dill, and lemon. It goes perfectly with cava grill chicken, as it adds moisture and freshness. You can make your own tzatziki sauce by following this [recipe], or buy it ready-made from the store.
- Salad: A crisp and colorful salad is always a good choice to pair with cava grill chicken, as it adds texture and nutrients. You can make your own salad by tossing together some lettuce, tomatoes, cucumbers, olives, feta cheese, and dressing of your choice. Or you can try this [Mediterranean salad] that is inspired by cava grill.
- Rice: Rice is a staple in many Mediterranean cuisines, and it works well with cava grill chicken, as it absorbs the juices and flavors. You can make your own rice by cooking it in water or chicken broth, or by adding some herbs and spices. Or you can try this [lemon rice] that is easy and delicious.
- Pita bread: Pita bread is a type of flatbread that is soft and fluffy, and it can be used to wrap or dip cava grill chicken. You can make your own pita bread by following this [recipe], or buy it ready-made from the store. You can also toast or grill the pita bread for some extra crunch.
- Hummus: Hummus is a smooth and creamy dip made with chickpeas, tahini, garlic, lemon, and olive oil. It is a popular appetizer in the Mediterranean region, and it can be enjoyed with cava grill chicken, as it adds richness and protein. You can make your own hummus by following this [recipe], or buy it ready-made from the store.
Cava Grill Chicken Nutrition Facts
Cava grill chicken is not only delicious, but also healthy. It is low in carbs and high in protein, which makes it a great choice for anyone who is watching their weight or following a keto or paleo diet. It is also gluten-free and dairy-free, which makes it suitable for anyone who has food allergies or intolerances.
Here is a table that shows the approximate nutrition facts for one serving of cava grill chicken (about 4 ounces or 113 grams), without any sauces or sides:
| Nutrient | Amount | % Daily Value |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 190 | 10% |
| Fat | 8 g | 12% |
| Saturated Fat | 2 g | 10% |
| Cholesterol | 85 mg | 28% |
| Sodium | 200 mg | 8% |
| Carbohydrates | 2 g | 1% |
| Fiber | 0 g | 0% |
| Sugar | 1 g | 2% |
| Protein | 27 g | 54% |
| Vitamin A | 0% | 0% |
| Vitamin C | 6% | 6% |
| Calcium | 4% | 4% |
| Iron | 6%
As you can see, cava grill chicken is a low-calorie, high-protein, and low-carb meal that can fit into any healthy diet. Of course, the nutrition facts may vary depending on the type and amount of chicken, marinade, and cooking method you use. You can also adjust the nutrition facts by adding or subtracting sauces and sides, depending on your preferences and needs. FAQs about Cava Grill ChickenHere are some of the most frequently asked questions about cava grill chicken, along with their answers: What is the difference between cava grill chicken and regular grilled chicken?The main difference between cava grill chicken and regular grilled chicken is the marinade. Cava grill chicken uses a yogurt-based marinade that contains lemon, vinegar, and spices, while regular grilled chicken may use a variety of marinades or none at all. The yogurt marinade helps to tenderize and moisten the chicken, as well as to add flavor and aroma. Regular grilled chicken may be drier or tougher, depending on the quality and cut of the chicken and the cooking time. Can I use other types of meat for cava grill chicken?Yes, you can use other types of meat for cava grill chicken, such as turkey, lamb, beef, or pork. However, you may need to adjust the marinating and grilling time according to the type and size of the meat. For example, turkey and lamb may need less time than chicken, while beef and pork may need more time. You may also need to check the internal temperature of the meat to ensure it is cooked through and safe to eat. Can I make cava grill chicken in the oven or on the stovetop?Yes, you can make cava grill chicken in the oven or on the stovetop if you don’t have a grill or prefer a different cooking method. To make cava grill chicken in the oven, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with foil. Place the marinated chicken on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until golden and cooked through. To make cava grill chicken on the stovetop, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add some oil. Cook the marinated chicken for about 15 minutes, turning occasionally, or until browned and cooked through. How long can I store cava grill chicken in the fridge or freezer?You can store cava grill chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat cava grill chicken, you can either microwave it for a few minutes or bake it in a preheated oven at 350°F (177°C) for 10 to 15 minutes. You can also enjoy cava grill chicken cold or at room temperature if you prefer. What are some variations of cava grill chicken?There are many ways to vary cava grill chicken by changing the ingredients or adding some twists. Here are some ideas:
ConclusionCava grill chicken is a delicious and healthy dish that you can easily make at home with simple ingredients and steps. It is low in carbs and high in protein, which makes it a great choice for anyone who is watching their weight or following a keto or paleo diet. It is also gluten-free and dairy-free, which makes it suitable for anyone who has food allergies or intolerances. Cava grill chicken is also versatile and customizable, as you can serve it with many different sauces and sides, and vary it by changing the ingredients or adding some twists. Whether you are a fan of cava grill or just want to try something new, this recipe will not disappoint you. We hope you enjoyed this article and learned something new. If you did, please share it with your friends and family, and leave us a comment below. We would love to hear from you. And don’t forget to check out our other articles for more tips and tricks on how to make delicious and healthy food at home. Thank you for reading! |