Healthy Chicken And Farro Bowl

Name: Healthy Chicken And Farro Bowl
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup farro; 2 cups water or chicken broth; 2 chicken breasts, boneless and skinless; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 red bell pepper, diced; 1 cucumber, diced; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; Fresh parsley, for garnish

Highlighted under: Wholesome Kitchen Classics

I absolutely love creating wholesome meals that are both delicious and nutritious, and this Healthy Chicken and Farro Bowl is a perfect representation of that. With a delightful mix of tender chicken, hearty farro, and vibrant veggies, this dish has become a staple in my kitchen. It not only offers a beautiful presentation but also packs a punch in terms of flavor. The preparation is straightforward and the result is a nourishing bowl that’s perfect for any day of the week. Trust me, you’ll want to make this again and again!

Created by

Blair Hudson

Last updated on 2026-02-23T21:57:36.717Z

When I first tried making farro, I was amazed at how versatile it is! Its nutty flavor pairs so well with chicken, and it adds great texture to a dish. I decided to make a bowl that showcases this amazing grain, and the result exceeded my expectations. Using fresh herbs and spices gives the chicken an incredible aromatic depth, making this meal standout.

One tip I learned is to let the farro soak for a bit before cooking; this enhances its flavor and ensures a pleasantly chewy texture. Each bite of this bowl is a celebration of wholesome ingredients, and I’m confident that every serving will leave you feeling satisfied and energized.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Hearty farro adds a satisfying texture and boosts the nutritional value
Juicy chicken marinated in fresh herbs infuses amazing flavor
Customizable with your favorite vegetables for even more color and taste

Understanding Farro

Farro is not only delicious but also incredibly nutritious, providing a rich source of fiber and protein. When cooking farro, it’s essential to rinse it under cold water before boiling to remove any impurities. This step enhances its taste and ensures a clean flavor profile. You can experiment with different types of farro, such as pearled or whole grain, keeping in mind that pearled farro cooks faster—about 20 minutes—while whole grain may require closer to 30-40 minutes for optimal tenderness.

In this recipe, farro serves as a hearty base, complementing the tender chicken and fresh vegetables beautifully. It absorbs the flavors of the broth or water it’s cooked in, meaning you can infuse additional taste right from the start. Consider adding spices or herbs to the cooking liquid for a subtle flavor enhancement—things like bay leaves or a dash of lemon juice make a wonderful difference.

Enhancing Chicken Flavor

Marinating the chicken is a key step in this dish, primarily because it brings depth to the flavor profile. I recommend letting the chicken sit in the olive oil and herb mixture for at least 30 minutes, though an hour or more will yield even better results. This allows the garlic and oregano to penetrate the meat, making it incredibly juicy and flavorful. If you’re short on time, a quick 15-minute marination can still provide a solid flavor boost.

Cooking the chicken requires attention to avoid dryness; using a meat thermometer to check for doneness is invaluable here. Aim for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). When sautéing, make sure the skillet is adequately heated to create a golden-brown sear, enriching the overall taste. If you find it browning too quickly, reduce the heat slightly to ensure even cooking without burning.

Adding Freshness with Vegetables

The colorful vegetable medley in this bowl not only enhances the visual appeal but also contributes essential vitamins and minerals. When choosing your vegetables, feel free to get creative—zucchini, carrots, or even leafy greens like spinach can work beautifully in this dish. As a tip, sautéing the bell peppers for just a couple of minutes before adding them to the bowl can bring out their natural sweetness and make them even more tender.

For those looking to prepare meals ahead of time, the components of this bowl store well. You can make the farro and chicken a day before serving, and simply chop the vegetables fresh when you’re ready to eat. This approach not only saves time but can also deliver a vibrant crunch to the dish. Just remember to keep any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh and healthy ingredients to make your Chicken and Farro Bowl:

Ingredients

1 cup farro
2 cups water or chicken broth
2 chicken breasts, boneless and skinless
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried oregano
Salt and pepper to taste
1 red bell pepper, diced
1 cucumber, diced
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
Fresh parsley, for garnish

Make sure to prep all your ingredients before you start cooking for a smoother experience.

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your Healthy Chicken and Farro Bowl:

Cook the Farro

In a medium saucepan, bring the water or chicken broth to a boil. Add the farro and a pinch of salt. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 25 minutes until tender. Drain any excess water and set aside.

Prepare the Chicken

In a bowl, mix olive oil, minced garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. Coat the chicken breasts with the mixture, and grill or sauté over medium heat for about 6-7 minutes per side, or until fully cooked.

Assemble the Bowl

Cut the cooked chicken into strips. In a large bowl or individual serving bowls, layer the farro, diced bell peppers, cucumber, cherry tomatoes, and top with the sliced chicken. Garnish with fresh parsley.

Enjoy your delicious and healthy Chicken and Farro Bowl!

Pro Tips

Feel free to add your favorite seasonal vegetables or a light dressing for extra flavor. You can also make this bowl vegetarian by substituting chicken with roasted chickpeas.

Storage and Reheating Tips

To store any leftover chicken and farro bowl, transfer everything to an airtight container and refrigerate. Properly stored, it will stay good for about three days. When ready to eat, simply reheat in the microwave until warmed through, about 1-2 minutes depending on your microwave's power. If you find the farro a bit dry, add a splash of water or a drizzle of olive oil to keep it moist during reheating.

If you're interested in longer-term storage, consider freezing individual portions. Just be sure to let the chicken and farro cool completely before transferring them to freezer-safe bags or containers. They can be frozen for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating for optimal texture and taste.

Serving Suggestions

This Healthy Chicken and Farro Bowl can be served warm or chilled, making it versatile for any occasion. You might consider topping it off with a drizzle of balsamic glaze or a squeeze of lemon for an added zesty touch. A sprinkle of feta cheese or a dollop of hummus can also elevate the dish, providing a creamy contrast to the other textures.

For an extra kick, consider adding some sliced avocado or a handful of nuts for a boost of healthy fats. This transforms the bowl into a complete meal, not only nourishing but also delightful to the palate. Feel free to adapt further based on seasonal vegetables or whatever you have on hand—this bowl is about celebrating fresh, quality ingredients.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! The farro and chicken can be cooked in advance and stored in the fridge for up to three days.

→ Is farro gluten-free?

No, farro is a type of wheat and is not gluten-free. If you need a gluten-free option, consider using quinoa.

→ What can I substitute for chicken?

You can replace chicken with grilled tofu or chickpeas for a vegetarian version.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They are best consumed within three days.