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; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 cucumber, diced; 1 bell pepper, diced; 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled; Fresh parsley, for garnish

Highlighted under: Nourishing Inspirations

I love making this Mediterranean Farro Bowl With Chicken, especially on busy weeknights when I want something healthy yet satisfying. The combination of nutty farro, juicy chicken, and vibrant vegetables creates a wonderfully balanced meal. Plus, it’s easily customizable to fit any diet preferences. I find that prepping the ingredients ahead of time makes assembly a breeze, allowing us to enjoy a delicious, wholesome meal in no time. Trust me, this bowl will quickly become a family favorite, packed with flavor and nutrients!

Created by

Arabella Scott

Last updated on 2026-02-08T06:24:36.580Z

When I first tried creating this Mediterranean bowl, I wanted to capture the essence of my travels through the Mediterranean region. I experimented with various grains and found that farro has a delightful chew that perfectly complements the tender chicken and fresh vegetables. It was a hit with my family during our last dinner together!

One tip I can share is to toast the farro slightly before cooking. This step enhances its nutty flavors and adds a lovely depth to the dish. The vibrant colors and textures all come together beautifully, creating a comforting bowl that's as good for the soul as it is for the body.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Hearty and nutritious base with farro packed with fiber.
Versatile ingredient combinations make it suitable for everyone.
Quick to prepare, perfect for weeknight meals or meal prep.

Understanding Farro

Farro is an ancient grain with a robust nutty flavor and chewy texture, making it an ideal base for this bowl. When cooked properly, it should remain slightly al dente, providing a satisfying bite. If you’re aiming for a softer farro, extend the cooking time by a few minutes, but be cautious to not overcook; otherwise, it can turn mushy. Additionally, the use of chicken broth instead of water enhances its flavor profile, adding depth to the entire dish.

For those looking to switch up their grain, quinoa or brown rice can also be excellent substitutes for farro. Quinoa cooks faster—about 15 minutes—so keep an eye on it and adjust your cooking times accordingly. However, I find that farro holds up particularly well in this recipe, absorbing the flavors of the chicken and vegetables beautifully.

Perfecting the Chicken

To ensure your chicken breasts are juicy and flavorful, consider brining them in a saltwater solution for 30 minutes before cooking. This simple step helps retain moisture during cooking and amplifies the taste. You can easily prepare a brine with water, salt, and a few herbs if you’d like to add some additional flavor. After cooking, allowing the chicken to rest will help the juices redistribute, giving you a tender final product.

If you prefer an extra layer of flavor, try marinating the chicken in a mixture of olive oil, garlic, and lemon juice for a couple of hours prior to cooking. This not only infuses the chicken with additional taste but also creates a lovely crust when seared. Cooking the chicken over medium-high heat creates a beautifully golden exterior while ensuring the inside is cooked through—a good indicator is when the internal temperature reaches 165°F.

Customizing Your Bowl

One of the great things about this Mediterranean Farro Bowl is how adaptable it is to your dietary preferences. You can easily swap out the chicken for grilled shrimp or chickpeas for a vegetarian option. If you're looking for a lower-carb alternative, consider using cauliflower rice instead of farro, though be aware that the cooking method will differ, with cauliflower only needing about 5 minutes in the pan.

In terms of vegetables, feel free to mix and match according to what's in season or what you have on hand. Roasted zucchini, arugula, or even olives can add a delightful twist. For a kick of flavor, drizzle a bit of balsamic glaze over the top before serving. This Mediterranean-inspired bowl is truly versatile, allowing you to experiment while maintaining its nutritious profile.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to create your Mediterranean Farro Bowl.

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
1 teaspoon dried oregano
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cucumber, diced
1 bell pepper, diced
1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
Fresh parsley, for garnish

You can swap out the vegetables or add your favorite toppings to make it your own!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare your bowl effortlessly.

Cook the Farro

In a medium saucepan, combine the farro and water (or broth). Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 25-30 minutes, or until the farro is tender. Drain any excess liquid and set aside.

Prepare the Chicken

While the farro is cooking, season the chicken breasts with olive oil, garlic powder, oregano, salt, and pepper. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and cook the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from heat and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.

Assemble the Bowl

In serving bowls, layer the cooked farro, sliced chicken, tomatoes, cucumber, and bell pepper. Sprinkle feta cheese and garnish with fresh parsley.

Dig in and enjoy the fresh Mediterranean flavors!

Pro Tips

Experiment with different vegetables or proteins to suit your taste. This recipe is highly adaptable, and you can even make it vegetarian by omitting the chicken and adding chickpeas instead.

Storing and Reheating

This dish is perfect for meal prep! Store the farro, chicken, and fresh vegetables separately in airtight containers in the fridge. The cooked farro can last up to 5 days, and you can simply reheat it in the microwave or on the stove for a quick meal. When reheating, add a splash of water to the farro to prevent it from drying out.

If you've made extra chicken, slice it up and top it onto salads or sandwiches for a quick protein boost during the week. Just remember not to reheat the vegetables too long, as they are best enjoyed fresh to retain their crunch and color.

Serving Suggestions

When serving this Mediterranean Farro Bowl, consider adding a side of tzatziki or hummus for extra flavor and creaminess. Both pair beautifully with the fresh vegetables and the savory chicken, enhancing the overall dining experience. A wedge of lemon on the side can also brighten the flavors, bringing a refreshing acidity that complements the dish.

For those looking to add a bit of crunch, a sprinkle of toasted pine nuts or sunflower seeds on top provides not only texture but also additional nutrients. Feel free to experiment with different dressings or toppings based on your taste preferences—this bowl is versatile enough to accommodate a variety of flavors!

Scaling the Recipe

If you’re meal prepping for a crowd or planning for leftovers, this recipe scales up easily. Just maintain the same ratio of farro to broth, and you'll have a hearty base ready for multiple meals. For larger gatherings, consider doubling or tripling the amount of chicken, and cook it in batches to ensure even cooking without overcrowding the skillet.

When scaling down, you can easily make a smaller portion using even half the ingredients. Leftover farro can be used in salads or grain bowls throughout the week, allowing you to create new meals without much extra effort. Remember, experimenting in smaller batches can be a great way to test out variations before committing to larger quantities!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this farro bowl vegan?

Yes! Simply omit the chicken and feta cheese, and you can add chickpeas or tofu for protein.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store the components separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to three days.

→ Can I use another grain instead of farro?

Absolutely! Quinoa, brown rice, or even couscous would work well in this recipe.

→ What other vegetables can I add?

Feel free to add any seasonal veggies you love, such as zucchini, spinach, or roasted bell peppers.