# Mediterranean-Style Shawarma Dishes CAVA Chicken Shawarma is a Modern Take on a Classic By Michael Hemsworth | Published 2025-09-05 | Lifestyle Source: Trend Hunter, https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/cava-chicken-shawarma References: [qsrmagazine](https://www.qsrmagazine.com/news/cava-releases-new-chicken-shawarma/) & [cava](https://cava.com)  The [CAVA Chicken Shawarma](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/cava-spicy-lamb) has been debuted by the Mediterranean fast-casual dining brand as a modernized take on the [classic Middle Eastern cuisine dish](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/shawahma-pizza). The dish will be available in chef-curated or build-your-own pitas and bowls, and boasts all-white meat chicken that has been marinated in a signature spice blend before being [roasted on a spit](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/bolero-bowl) and thinly shaved. The dish comes in the Garlicky Chicken Shawarma Bowl and the Chicken Shawarma Pita, which are both making their debut at participating locations starting September 8, 2025 for diners to choose. Co-Founder and Chief Concept Officer Ted Xenohristos spoke on the CAVA Chicken Shawarma saying, "Our culinary philosophy is about balancing heritage, vibrant flavors and innovation. Chicken Shawarma is a delicious Mediterranean staple rooted in tradition, and we’ve crafted it to deliver the bold and delicious flavors that define the CAVA experience.” Image Credit: CAVA ## Trend Insights (Trend Hunter) - Score: 2.0/10 - Popularity: 6% | Activity: 6% | Freshness: 49% - Audience gender: 50% men, 50% women - Primary generations: Millennial, Gen X - Top markets: North America ## Categories [Trend Hunter](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends) > [Lifestyle](https://www.trendhunter.com/lifestyle) > [Food](https://www.trendhunter.com/food) ## Key Themes ### Key Themes Behind This Trend - **Fusion Cuisine Innovations:** Fusion cuisine sees disruptive innovation as traditional Mediterranean dishes like shawarma are reinvented with modern twists to appeal to contemporary palates. - **Build-your-own Meal Options:** Customizable meal options such as the build-your-own pitas and bowls present innovation opportunities by allowing consumers to personalize their dining experience. - **Signature Spice Blends:** The creation and utilization of unique spice blends introduce disruptive innovation in the culinary landscape, enhancing classic dishes with new and exciting flavors. ### Where This Applies - **Fast-casual Dining:** The fast-casual dining industry embraces modernization with offerings such as CAVA's Chicken Shawarma, blending speed, quality, and customization. - **Mediterranean Cuisine:** Mediterranean cuisine finds innovation potential through modern reinterpretations of traditional dishes, offering a fresh take on classic flavors. - **Specialty Ingredients:** The specialty ingredients industry is primed for growth as unique, chef-curated blends become integral in reimagining traditional recipes. ## Related on Trend Hunter - [Shawarma-Inspired Chicken Sandwiches](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/crispy-chicken-shawarma.md) - [Halal-Certified Chicken Shawarmas](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/chicken-shawarma.md) - [New Year Menu Debuts](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/cava-spicy-lamb.md) - [Sumac-Spiced Shawarma Wraps](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/sumac-chicken-shawarma-wrap.md) - [Chef-Crafted Shawarma Bowls](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/classic-braised-beef-bowl.md) - [Mediterranean-Inspired Pita Crisps](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/garlic-ranch-pita-chips.md) - [Harissa-Spiced Pita Chips](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/harissa-bbq-pita-chips.md) - [Braised Beef Protein Toppers](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/new-braised-beef.md) - [Plant-Based Protein Shawarmas](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/redefine-meat-shawarma.md)