Mediterranean Farro Bowl With Chicken

Name: Mediterranean Farro Bowl With Chicken
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup farro; 2 cups water or chicken broth; 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 cucumber, diced; 1 red bell pepper, chopped; 1/4 cup red onion, diced; 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped; 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled; 3 tablespoons olive oil; Juice of 1 lemon; 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Everyday World Food Collection

I absolutely love creating bowls that are not only delicious but also packed with nutrients, and this Mediterranean Farro Bowl with Chicken is one of my favorites. The chewy texture of farro combined with tender chicken and vibrant vegetables makes for a satisfying meal. It's perfect for lunch or dinner and can easily be customized based on what I have on hand. Plus, it's a great way to incorporate more grains into my diet while enjoying bold Mediterranean flavors. I can’t wait for you to try it!

Created by

Matilda Rowe

Last updated on 2026-02-08T00:02:35.598Z

When I first made this Mediterranean Farro Bowl, I wanted to create a dish that was hearty yet refreshing. Farro has this incredible nutty flavor that really shines through when paired with the other ingredients. Each component complements the others perfectly, from the juicy chicken to the crisp vegetables. I learned that letting the farro soak for a short time before cooking helps enhance its flavor and texture.

As I continued to perfect this recipe, I realized that using fresh herbs like parsley and dill really elevates the overall taste. The addition of a simple lemon dressing adds brightness and ties the whole bowl together. Each bite is a delightful experience that keeps me coming back for more!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Nutty farro adds a unique texture and flavor
Fresh veggies make each bowl feel light and refreshing
Versatile: easily switch up the protein or veggies

The Importance of Farro

Farro is a whole grain that not only enhances the texture of this bowl but also serves as a nutritious base. It has a chewy bite and nutty flavor that pairs beautifully with the tender chicken and fresh vegetables. Cooking farro correctly is crucial; it should be simmered until it's tender but still has a slight firmness, typically taking around 25 minutes. If you find that your farro is overcooked and mushy, reduce the cooking time or monitor it closely during the last few minutes for the perfect texture.

When selecting farro, consider using semi-pearled farro for a quicker cooking time, as it has had some of its bran removed. This version cooks faster than whole farro and offers a similar nutty flavor. If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, quinoa or brown rice can serve as suitable substitutes, but keep in mind their distinct flavors and textures will change the overall profile of the dish.

Customizing Your Bowl

One of the best aspects of the Mediterranean Farro Bowl is its versatility. While the base recipe calls for chicken and a colorful assortment of vegetables, feel free to substitute with whatever you have on hand. Grilled shrimp, chickpeas, or even crispy tofu can work wonderfully as the protein. Additionally, roasted vegetables like zucchini or eggplant can add depth and flavor. Adjusting the vegetables not only alters the taste but also hits different nutritional notes, so mix and match your favorites.

For those who lean towards tangier flavors, consider adding olives or artichoke hearts to the mix. They complement the other Mediterranean elements beautifully and bring an extra layer of complexity. On the other hand, if you prefer a creamier touch, a dollop of tzatziki sauce can elevate your bowl and provide a refreshing contrast to the earthy farro.

Storing and Serving Tips

This farro bowl is not only satisfying when fresh but also stores exceptionally well, making it perfect for meal prep. You can assemble the components ahead of time, storing the farro, chicken, and veggies separately in airtight containers. When kept in the fridge, the bowl can last for up to 4-5 days. Just remember to hold off on adding the dressing until you’re ready to serve to prevent sogginess.

If you want to reheat your farro bowl, do so in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat. Just add a splash of water or broth to help steam and refresh the mixture. For serving suggestions, I love to pair it with a simple side salad or some warm, crusty bread to soak up any leftover dressing. This creates a more complete meal that showcases the vibrant Mediterranean flavors.

Ingredients

For the Bowl

1 cup farro
2 cups water or chicken broth
2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cucumber, diced
1 red bell pepper, chopped
1/4 cup red onion, diced
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled

For the Dressing

3 tablespoons olive oil
Juice of 1 lemon
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Steps

Cook the Farro

In a saucepan, combine farro with water or chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 25 minutes, or until tender. Drain any excess liquid and set aside.

Prepare the Chicken

Season chicken breasts with olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Grill or sauté over medium-high heat for about 6-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through. Let rest for a few minutes before slicing.

Make the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until emulsified.

Assemble the Bowl

In a large bowl, combine cooked farro, chicken slices, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red bell pepper, red onion, and parsley. Drizzle with dressing and toss to combine. Top with feta cheese before serving.

Enjoy your meal!

Pro Tips

Feel free to customize your bowl with your favorite vegetables or switch up the protein to shrimp or chickpeas for a vegetarian option.

Enhancing Flavor with Seasoning

Proper seasoning is key to turning standard ingredients into a standout dish. In this recipe, the chicken benefits from a simple rub of olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper, which not only enhances its flavor but allows for browning on the outside while keeping it juicy. Experimenting with different herbs like oregano or thyme can also amplify the Mediterranean vibe. Add these spices to the chicken before cooking, ensuring that they infuse the meat with delightful flavor.

Don’t shy away from seasoning your vegetables as well! A light sprinkle of salt enhances their natural flavors and brings out their sweetness, especially with fresh cherry tomatoes and bell peppers. Additionally, consider adding a dash of red pepper flakes if you enjoy a bit of heat!

Experimentation with Dressings

While the zesty lemon-Dijon dressing complements the Mediterranean Farro Bowl wonderfully, don’t hesitate to experiment with variations. One option could be a tahini-based dressing, which adds creaminess and a nutty flavor. Simply blend tahini with lemon juice, garlic, and water until smooth for a delicious alternative. Another alternative is a balsamic vinaigrette, which introduces a tangy sweetness to the bowl.

When creating dressings, balance is crucial. If you make a dressing that is too tart, simply whisk in more olive oil, or if it’s too oily, add a splash of vinegar or lemon juice. This way, you can tailor the dressing to suit your palate perfectly.

Scaling the Recipe

This Mediterranean Farro Bowl is easily scalable. If you’re hosting a gathering or meal prepping for the week, simply multiply the ingredients accordingly. Keep in mind that chicken breasts can easily be grilled or baked in batches; just ensure they're cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F. To ensure uniform cooking, consider butterflying the breasts if they are particularly thick.

When scaling up, be cautious about the cooking times for both the farro and chicken, as larger quantities may require slight adjustments. Always taste the farro for doneness and check the chicken around the recommended cooking times to avoid dryness while achieving that perfect juiciness.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can cook the farro and chicken in advance. Just store them separately in the fridge and assemble the bowl when ready to eat.

→ What can I substitute for farro?

If you don't have farro, you can use quinoa or brown rice as an alternative grain.

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

No, farro contains gluten. For a gluten-free version, use quinoa or another gluten-free grain.

→ How long does this dish last in the fridge?

The assembled bowl can last in the fridge for about 3 days. Just ensure to store the dressing separately to keep the veggies fresh.