Healthy Chicken And Farro Bowl

Name: Healthy Chicken And Farro Bowl
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup farro; 1 lb chicken breast, diced; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 lemon, juiced; 2 cups mixed vegetables (like bell peppers, broccoli, and carrots); Salt and pepper, to taste; Fresh herbs for garnish (optional)

Highlighted under: Nourishing Favorites

I absolutely love making this Healthy Chicken And Farro Bowl for lunch or dinner! It's a delightful combination of tender chicken, nutty farro, and fresh veggies that not only tastes great but is also packed with nutrients. Each time I prepare it, I appreciate how versatile it is—add any of my favorite seasonal vegetables to personalize the dish. Plus, it’s perfect for meal prepping; I can enjoy it throughout the week without losing freshness. This bowl truly makes healthy eating enjoyable and satisfying.

Created by

Madeline Archer

Last updated on 2026-02-24T07:24:50.066Z

When I first tried making a chicken and farro bowl, I was surprised at how easy it was to create a dish that felt both wholesome and indulgent. The farro base brings a lovely chewiness, which complements the juicy chicken perfectly. One trick I learned is to marinate the chicken in a zesty lemon dressing beforehand, giving it an extra layer of flavor that elevates the whole dish.

I've experimented with various toppings, and I find that fresh herbs, like parsley or cilantro, add a refreshing burst that ties it all together. Sometimes, I even add a drizzle of tahini for a creamy finish. Each time I prepare this bowl, I end up crafting a new variation that makes it feel unique and exciting!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Nutritious ingredients that fuel your day
Easy to make and great for meal prep
Customizable with seasonal vegetables

Getting the Most Out of Your Farro

Cooking farro correctly is crucial for achieving that perfect chewy texture. It’s best to soak the farro in water for at least 30 minutes prior to cooking. This not only reduces the cooking time but also enhances its nutty flavor. If you’re short on time and choose not to soak, just remember to adjust the water ratio slightly, using 3 ½ cups of water instead of 3 cups, and extend the cooking time by a few minutes to ensure tenderness.

When your farro is done cooking, it should have absorbed most of the water and be tender yet still slightly firm to the bite. After draining, return it to the warm pot for 5 minutes off the heat, covered. This helps any residual steam to finish the cooking process and can add to the grain's fluffy texture. If you're prepping for the week, farro can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to a week, making it a versatile base for various meals.

Perfectly Cooked Chicken Every Time

To ensure your chicken stays juicy and avoids drying out, it’s vital to use a meat thermometer. Aim for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Start cooking the chicken over medium-high heat, which will create a nice sear on the outside. As soon as the chicken is in the skillet, resist the urge to move it around too much; let it cook undisturbed for a few minutes until it develops a golden crust. This not only enhances flavor but also helps keep juices sealed inside.

If you want to introduce a bit of flavor depth, consider using a blend of herbs or spices when marinating the chicken. Products like smoked paprika, cumin, or even a touch of honey can complement the lemon juice beautifully. Marinating for longer than 10 minutes is fine too, but if left too long, the lemon could start to 'cook' the chicken, resulting in a slightly tough texture. Customize your marinade to match your favorite flavor profiles!

Customization and Storage Tips

This Healthy Chicken and Farro Bowl is incredibly adaptable. Seasonal vegetables such as zucchini, asparagus, or kale can be swapped in according to what’s fresh and available. You can also adjust the cooking times accordingly; for instance, quicker-cooking veggies like spinach only need a couple of minutes in the skillet. You can even experiment with different grains—quinoa or brown rice also work wonderfully if you're in the mood for a change.

For meal prep enthusiasts, this dish stores exceptionally well. When stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, it can last up to four days without compromising flavor. If you'd like to freeze it, just be aware that the texture of the vegetables might change upon reheating, so it’s best to add them fresh instead. When reheating, give it a quick splash of water and microwave on medium for even heating.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to get started!

Ingredients

1 cup farro
1 lb chicken breast, diced
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 lemon, juiced
2 cups mixed vegetables (like bell peppers, broccoli, and carrots)
Salt and pepper, to taste
Fresh herbs for garnish (optional)

Once you have everything, you can start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your bowl.

Cook the Farro

In a medium saucepan, combine farro with 3 cups of water and a pinch of salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 25 minutes, or until tender. Drain and set aside.

Prepare the Chicken

In a bowl, combine diced chicken, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat evenly and let it marinate for about 10 minutes.

Cook the Chicken

Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken and cook for about 6-8 minutes, or until fully cooked and golden brown.

Sauté the Vegetables

In the same skillet, add mixed vegetables and sauté for 4-5 minutes until tender-crisp. Season with salt and pepper.

Assemble the Bowl

In a bowl, layer the farro first, then top with sautéed vegetables and the cooked chicken. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired.

Your Healthy Chicken And Farro Bowl is ready to enjoy!

Pro Tips

Feel free to customize your chicken and farro bowl with any vegetables you have on hand. Roasted vegetables can also add a lovely depth of flavor.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate the presentation of your Healthy Chicken and Farro Bowl, consider serving it in mason jars for a fun, portable option. Layer the farro, followed by vegetables and chicken, and finish with a sprinkle of fresh herbs. Not only does this look appealing, but it also helps maintain the freshness of each component until you're ready to eat.

A drizzle of a simple dressing made from tahini and lemon juice can add extra creaminess and flavor to the bowl. For a bit of extra crunch, sprinkle some toasted nuts or seeds on top right before serving. This not only enhances texture but also adds even more nutrients to your meal.

Variations to Try

For a Mediterranean twist, try adding olives, feta cheese, and a splash of red wine vinegar to your bowl. The briny olives and cheesy feta can complement the nutty farro beautifully and create a satisfying depth of flavor. This variation is also a great way to incorporate more regional flavors into your meal prep routine.

If you’re looking for a heartier version, you can add legumes like chickpeas or black beans to provide additional protein and fiber. Simply toss them in the skillet with the vegetables to heat through during the sautéing process. This change not only boosts the nutritional content but also contributes a satisfying texture contrast to the dish.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different grain instead of farro?

Absolutely! Quinoa, brown rice, or barley can be delicious alternatives.

→ How long can I store leftovers?

You can keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

Farro is not gluten-free, but you can substitute with gluten-free grains like quinoa or rice.

→ What can I add for extra flavor?

Consider adding a tahini dressing or yogurt sauce for additional creaminess and flavor.