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 vegetable broth; 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 cucumber, diced; 1 bell pepper, diced; 1/4 cup kalamata olives, pitted and sliced; 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish); 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil; Juice of 1 lemon; 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard; 1 garlic clove, minced; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Cultural Cuisine

I absolutely love making this Mediterranean Farro Bowl with Chicken! The combination of nutty farro, fresh veggies, and tender grilled chicken makes for a delightful and healthy meal. Each bite bursts with flavor, especially when drizzled with a zesty lemon dressing. Whether it's for lunch or dinner, this farro bowl is a satisfying dish that dazzles the taste buds. You can even customize the toppings to suit your preference, making it a versatile option for any day of the week.

Created by

Abigail Foster

Last updated on 2026-02-08T09:05:36.124Z

When I first experimented with this Mediterranean Farro Bowl, I realized how well the components complemented each other. The nutty flavor of farro paired with the brightness of fresh vegetables creates a wonderful balance. I recommend toasting the farro lightly before cooking to enhance its flavor; it truly makes a difference!

One aspect that stood out to me was the versatility of this dish. You can swap out ingredients based on what you have on hand or your dietary preferences. Adding feta cheese on top brings an extra layer of creaminess that's simply irresistible, making it perfect for a wholesome family meal.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Nutty farro provides a satisfying base that pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken
Vibrant vegetables add a refreshing crunch and nutritional boost
Easy to customize with your favorite Mediterranean ingredients

Cooking the Farro

Farro is a whole grain that not only enhances the texture of the Mediterranean Bowl but also adds a nutty flavor profile that complements the other ingredients beautifully. When simmering the farro, be sure to test it for doneness. It should be tender yet still have a slight chew—think al dente pasta. If you prefer a softer texture, simmer for an additional 5 to 10 minutes, but keep an eye on the water level to prevent it from becoming mushy.

To enhance the flavor of the farro even more, consider toasting it in the saucepan with a drizzle of olive oil before adding water or broth. This technique releases the nutty aroma and adds depth to the dish. If you have leftover farro, it stores well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days, making it perfect for meal prep.

Grilling Chicken to Perfection

Grilling chicken is a quick and healthy cooking method, but timing is key to achieving perfectly cooked, juicy breasts. Preheat your grill or skillet to medium-high, which is around 375°F to 400°F. A good rule of thumb is to cook for approximately 6-7 minutes per side, flipping only once. This minimizes moisture loss and ensures a golden-brown crust. If the chicken starts to color too quickly, lower the heat slightly to prevent burning.

Resting the chicken after cooking is crucial. Allow it to sit for about 5 minutes before slicing. This resting period lets the juices redistribute, resulting in a tender bite. If you want to amp up the flavor, marinate the chicken with the lemon dressing for at least 30 minutes beforehand, allowing the acid to enhance the meat's tenderness while infusing it with bright flavors.

Customizing and Serving Your Bowl

One of the best aspects of the Mediterranean Farro Bowl is its inherent flexibility. Feel free to swap the vegetables based on seasonal availability. Zucchini, roasted red peppers, or steamed asparagus are fantastic substitutes for the vegetables listed. You can also mix in a handful of greens like spinach or arugula for extra nutrients. Just remember to adjust the dressing quantity if you increase the volume of ingredients to maintain balance.

When serving the bowl, consider individual customization. Allow your guests to build their own bowls by providing a variety of toppings like artichokes, sun-dried tomatoes, or chickpeas. This not only adds an element of fun but also caters to different dietary preferences. Any leftovers can easily be reheated, but for optimal freshness, enjoy the salad cold or at room temperature for the best flavors.

Ingredients

For the Bowl

1 cup farro
2 cups water or vegetable broth
2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cucumber, diced
1 bell pepper, diced
1/4 cup kalamata olives, pitted and sliced
1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

For the Dressing

1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
Juice of 1 lemon
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
1 garlic clove, minced
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Prepare the Farro

Rinse the farro under cold water. In a saucepan, combine farro and water or broth. Bring to a boil, reduce to a simmer, and cook for about 30 minutes until tender. Drain any excess liquid and set aside.

Cook the Chicken

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

Prepare the Vegetables

While the chicken is cooking, prep the vegetables. In a large bowl, combine the halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, bell pepper, and olives.

Make the Dressing

In a separate small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, salt, and pepper until well combined.

Assemble the Bowl

In serving bowls, layer the cooked farro, sliced chicken, and the mixed vegetables. Drizzle with dressing and top with crumbled feta cheese and parsley.

Pro Tips

For added flavor, marinate the chicken in lemon juice, garlic, and herbs for a few hours before cooking. Also, feel free to experiment with different seasonal vegetables for variety.

Storage Tips

Leftover Mediterranean Farro Bowls can be stored in individual containers in the refrigerator for up to five days. To maintain the freshness of the vegetables, store the dressing separately and drizzle it just before serving. This preserves the crunch of the veggies and prevents them from becoming soggy. If you prefer to freeze portions, pack the bowls without referencing the fresh ingredients and dressing.

Reheating farro and chicken is quick and easy. For the best results, use a microwave at medium power to ensure even heating, usually needing 1-2 minutes. Stir occasionally to distribute heat evenly. If reheating from frozen, allow the bowl to thaw in the fridge overnight before warming it. This prevents any drastic texture changes from rapid heating.

Flavor Enhancements

To boost the flavor profile of your Mediterranean Farro Bowl, consider adding fresh herbs such as basil or mint. A sprinkle of fresh lemon zest over the top adds a vibrant zing that brightens the dish. You can also experiment with spices like smoked paprika or cumin in the chicken seasonings to add warm undertones that contrast beautifully with the fresh veggies.

Another way to elevate the dish is by incorporating a creamy element. A dollop of tzatziki or a swirl of hummus provides an additional layer of flavor and creaminess that pairs well with the texture of the farro and chicken. Moreover, adding a few crushed red pepper flakes can introduce a mild heat, complementing the fresh ingredients beautifully.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I prep this meal ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the farro and chop the vegetables ahead of time. Just assemble it when you’re ready to serve.

→ Is farro gluten-free?

No, farro is not gluten-free as it is a type of wheat. If you need a gluten-free alternative, consider quinoa or brown rice.

→ How can I make this dish vegetarian?

You can leave out the chicken and add more vegetables, chickpeas, or tofu for protein.

→ What other toppings can I add?

You can add roasted red peppers, artichokes, or avocado for extra flavor and nutrition.