The Nutritional Breakdown of CAVA's Harissa Honey Chicken
For many health-conscious diners, understanding the macronutrient content of their food is essential. The Harissa Honey Chicken from CAVA is a popular protein choice, offering a significant 26 grams of protein per standard serving. This high-protein content, paired with its distinct flavor, makes it an excellent foundation for a satisfying and filling meal.
Beyond just the protein, it's beneficial to look at the complete nutritional profile of this entree option. A single serving of the Harissa Honey Chicken is reported to contain approximately 260 calories. The other key macronutrients include 14 grams of total fat and 7 grams of total carbohydrates. This makes it a protein-rich option with a moderate fat and low carbohydrate count, especially when consumed on its own.
Comparing CAVA's Protein Options
When building a meal at CAVA, the protein choice significantly impacts the total nutritional value. The Harissa Honey Chicken stands out for its high protein count, but comparing it to other proteins can help you decide which best fits your dietary goals. Here is a comparison of some popular CAVA protein options based on available nutrition information:
| CAVA Protein Option | Standard Serving Calories | Protein (g) | Fat (g) | Carbohydrates (g) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Harissa Honey Chicken | 260 | 26 | 14 | 7 |
| Grilled Chicken | 250 | - | - | - |
| Braised Lamb | 210 | - | - | - |
| Falafel | - | 22 | 58 | 89 |
| Kid's Harissa Honey Chicken | 130 | 13 | 7 | 4 |
Note: Nutritional values for some proteins may require consulting the official CAVA guide for full details. Values for Falafel are from a specific bowl, indicating higher total fat and carbs due to cooking method and likely portion size.
Customizing Your Meal to Boost Protein
While the Harissa Honey Chicken provides a great protein base, adding the right toppings and spreads can further enhance your meal's protein content and overall nutritional profile. Building a balanced bowl is about more than just the main protein. Consider these additions:
- Hummus: A classic choice, hummus adds plant-based protein and fiber from chickpeas.
- Crazy Feta®: This whipped feta spread adds a creamy texture and extra protein from dairy.
- Extra Protein: For a serious protein boost, you can always ask for an additional serving of the chicken or another protein source.
- Lentils or Split Peas: Incorporating these legumes into your base can significantly increase your meal's protein and fiber content.
- Feta Cheese: Crumbled feta is a delicious way to add more protein and flavor to your bowl or pita.
Beyond Protein: Building a Balanced CAVA Bowl
Creating a truly healthy and satisfying meal at CAVA means considering all the components. To build a balanced bowl with your Harissa Honey Chicken, follow these steps:
- Choose Your Base Wisely: Start with a base of mixed greens or arugula for a low-carb option, or opt for brown rice or quinoa for added fiber and complex carbohydrates.
- Add Flavorful Spreads: While the chicken is flavorful, spreads like hummus or roasted eggplant can add depth and nutrients. Be mindful of potential added sodium.
- Load Up on Veggies: Fresh and roasted vegetables like cucumber, red onion, and roasted red peppers add vitamins, minerals, and fiber without a lot of calories.
- Finish with Toppings: Add healthy fats and crunch with toppings like Kalamata olives, avocado, or pickled onions.
Remember that the total nutritional information for your meal is the sum of its parts. A simple bowl with Harissa Honey Chicken, greens, and a few vegetables will have a different nutritional value than a larger bowl loaded with grains, spreads, and high-fat toppings.
The Health-Conscious Take on CAVA's Chicken
The Harissa Honey Chicken is a smart choice for those prioritizing protein, but like any prepared food, it's important to be aware of other nutritional factors. The standard serving has a moderate sodium level (670mg) which can add up depending on other ingredients. Customizing your bowl by opting for lower-sodium toppings or dressings can help keep this in check. For those looking for a smaller portion, the Kids' Harissa Honey Chicken is an option that contains 13g of protein with lower calories, fat, and sodium.
Conclusion
Knowing how much protein is in CAVA honey chicken—a solid 26 grams per serving—provides a clear answer for health-conscious diners. It is an excellent, high-protein component that can be the centerpiece of a nourishing meal. By thoughtfully selecting your base, spreads, and toppings, you can tailor your CAVA experience to meet specific dietary needs, whether you're focusing on protein intake, calorie management, or overall balanced nutrition. For a complete look at all menu items, you can consult CAVA's official nutrition guide CAVA.com Nutrition Guide.