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 vegetable broth; 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 cup cucumber, diced; 1 cup spinach, chopped; Salt and pepper to taste; Juice of 1 lemon

Highlighted under: Naturally Nourishing

I love making this Healthy Chicken and Farro Bowl when I want a nourishing yet satisfying meal. Packed with lean protein, fiber-rich farro, and a variety of colorful veggies, this dish is not just good for you; it's also delicious! The balance of flavors and textures makes every bite enjoyable. Plus, it's easy to customize based on whatever ingredients I have on hand, making it a perfect weeknight dinner option that keeps things exciting and healthy.

Created by

Lucy Bennett

Last updated on 2026-02-27T23:45:34.666Z

When I first made this Healthy Chicken and Farro Bowl, I was pleasantly surprised by how quickly it came together. I seasoned the chicken with a mix of garlic and herbs, allowing the flavors to really meld. Cooking the farro in vegetable broth rather than water was a game changer, as it added an additional layer of taste that paired beautifully with the veggies.

I've also found that adding a splash of lemon juice right before serving brightens the entire dish. This twist truly elevates the flavors, ensuring that every spoonful is refreshing and vibrant. Trust me, it’s worth the little extra effort!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Nutritious ingredients packed with protein and fiber
Versatile and customizable based on seasonal produce
Bright and delicious flavors brighten up any dinner table

Ingredient Insights

Farro is not only a fantastic source of fiber, but it also adds a delightful nutty flavor and chewy texture to the dish. Its versatility means it can easily absorb the broth's flavor, enhancing the overall taste of your Healthy Chicken and Farro Bowl. If you can’t find farro, quinoa or barley can serve as excellent substitutes, although they will slightly alter the texture and cooking time.

The choice of vegetables in this dish greatly contributes to its nutritional value. Spinach is rich in iron and vitamins, while cherry tomatoes provide a burst of acidity and sweetness. Feel free to experiment with seasonal veggies; roasted bell peppers or steamed broccoli are delightful complements. This adaptability not only caters to your taste preferences but also helps you use what's available in your pantry.

Cooking Techniques

Cooking the chicken breasts to the right point is crucial. Overcooking can make the chicken dry, while undercooking results in a food safety issue. Look for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and a golden-brown crust for the best flavor and texture. I recommend using a meat thermometer to avoid any guesswork.

Once you’ve cooked the farro, giving it a quick fluff with a fork before combining it with the vegetables adds lightness to the dish. This technique breaks up any clumps and ensures an even distribution of ingredients when you mix everything together into your bowls.

Ingredients

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

Ingredients

1 cup farro
2 cups vegetable broth
2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cup cucumber, diced
1 cup spinach, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste
Juice of 1 lemon

Make sure to have these ingredients ready before you start cooking for the best results!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare your bowl:

Cook the Farro

In a medium pot, combine farro and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and cover. Simmer for about 25 minutes or until tender. Drain any excess liquid if necessary.

Prepare the Chicken

While the farro cooks, heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Season chicken breasts with garlic powder, thyme, salt, and pepper. Cook for 6-7 minutes on each side until golden and cooked through. Remove from heat and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.

Combine the Ingredients

In a large bowl, mix cooked farro, spinach, cherry tomatoes, and cucumber. Add sliced chicken on top and drizzle with lemon juice.

Serve and Enjoy

Divide the mixture into bowls. Enjoy your vibrant and healthy meal!

Enjoy your Healthy Chicken and Farro Bowl warm or at room temperature!

Pro Tips

Feel free to switch up the vegetables based on what's in season or your favorite flavors. Adding a sprinkle of feta or avocado can also enhance the dish!

Make-Ahead and Storage

This Healthy Chicken and Farro Bowl is perfect for meal prep. You can cook the farro and chicken ahead of time and store them separately in the refrigerator for up to four days. Each component holds up well, and the flavors develop as they sit, making your meal even more delicious on the second day.

To reheat, simply warm the chicken in a skillet over medium-low heat for about 3-4 minutes, adding a splash of broth to keep it moist. The farro can be reheated in the microwave or on the stove, just be sure to add a little water or broth to prevent it from drying out.

Serving Suggestions

For an extra touch of flavor, consider topping your bowl with feta cheese or a dollop of Greek yogurt to add creaminess that contrasts beautifully with the textures of the chicken and vegetables. A sprinkle of fresh herbs, like parsley or basil, elevates the dish and adds a pop of color.

This bowl can also serve as a hearty base for additional proteins like grilled shrimp or chickpeas, catering to various dietary needs. Whether enjoyed warm or chilled, it’s a flexible dish that can transition seamlessly from a cozy dinner to a refreshing lunch option.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this bowl ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the farro and chicken in advance and store them separately in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ What can I substitute for farro?

You can use quinoa, brown rice, or any other whole grain that you prefer in this recipe.

→ Is this dish gluten-free?

Farro is not gluten-free. For a gluten-free version, consider using quinoa or rice.

→ Can I add more protein to this bowl?

Certainly! You can add beans, chickpeas, or even a poached egg for extra protein.