Mediterranean Farro Bowl With Chicken

Name: Mediterranean Farro Bowl With Chicken
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 medium chicken breasts, boneless and skinless; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 cucumber, diced; 1 bell pepper, diced; 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced; 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese; Fresh parsley for garnish; 3 tablespoons olive oil; 2 tablespoons lemon juice; 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Nourishing Inspirations

I love creating fresh and hearty meals, and this Mediterranean Farro Bowl with Chicken is one of my absolute favorites. The combination of tender chicken, nutty farro, and vibrant vegetables makes every bite a celebration of flavors and textures. I enjoy experimenting with different herbs and spices, which is why I tend to customize the dressing to suit my mood. Whether it’s a quick weeknight dinner or a meal prep option for the week, this bowl delivers nutrition and satisfaction in every spoonful.

Created by

Arabella Scott

Last updated on 2026-02-08T06:29:36.196Z

When I first made this Mediterranean Farro Bowl with Chicken, I was amazed at how such simple ingredients could come together to create something so delicious. The farro not only adds a delightful chewiness but also packs the bowl with fiber and nutrients. I’ve found that letting the chicken marinate for at least an hour really infuses it with flavor, making a noticeable difference in the overall taste of the dish.

Over time, I’ve experimented with various toppings, and each one gives the bowl a unique twist. For instance, adding feta cheese and olives elevates the Mediterranean essence even further. Don’t be afraid to adjust the veggies based on the season; this recipe is versatile and allows for plenty of creativity!

Reasons You'll Love This Recipe
Nutty farro complements the savory chicken beautifully
Fresh veggies add crunch and color
Great for meal prep or serving at gatherings

Mastering Farro

Farro is not only a nutritious grain, but it also brings a delightful chewiness that complements the tender chicken and crisp vegetables in this bowl. When cooking farro, ensure you don't overboil it; the goal is to achieve a bite that's firm yet tender, which takes about 25 minutes. If you prefer a nuttier flavor, you can toast the farro in the saucepan for a couple of minutes before adding the liquid, enhancing its natural sweetness.

For those who want to add even more flavor to the dish, consider cooking the farro in chicken broth instead of water. This simple swap infuses the grains with a savory depth that works wonderfully with the other ingredients. Just remember to keep an eye on the liquid ratio, as using broth can introduce additional saltiness.

Enhancing the Chicken Flavor

Marinating the chicken is key to infusing it with flavor and ensuring tenderness. Besides the olive oil, oregano, salt, and pepper, you can enhance the marinade by adding crushed garlic, lemon zest, or even a sprinkle of smoked paprika for a smoky undertone. Allow the chicken to marinate in the refrigerator for up to two hours; the longer it sits, the more intense the flavors become.

Cooking the chicken on medium heat is crucial. Too high of a temperature may result in a charred exterior while leaving the inside undercooked. Aim for a cooking temperature of around 350°F (175°C) on the grill or in the skillet. It’s ready when the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Let it rest post-cooking before slicing to keep those juicy flavors locked inside.

Customizing Your Bowl

One of the best aspects of this Mediterranean Farro Bowl is its versatility. You can easily substitute the chicken with grilled shrimp, chickpeas, or even roasted vegetables for a plant-based twist. If you're someone who loves experimenting with flavors, feel free to try different fresh herbs like cilantro or basil, which can be added directly into the bowl for a fresh pop.

Storage is another advantage with this recipe. If you have leftovers, store the components separately in airtight containers. The farro and chicken can be easily reheated in the microwave or on the stovetop. Keep the fresh vegetables and feta cheese separate to maintain their crunch and vibrancy. This meal can remain fresh for up to four days in the refrigerator.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients before you start.

For the Bowl

1 cup farro
2 cups water or chicken broth
2 medium chicken breasts, boneless and skinless
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon dried oregano
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cucumber, diced
1 bell pepper, diced
1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
Fresh parsley for garnish

For the Dressing

3 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons lemon juice
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
Salt and pepper to taste

Make sure everything is fresh for the best flavor.

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your bowl.

Cook the Farro

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

Prepare the Chicken

While the farro cooks, marinate the chicken breasts in olive oil, oregano, salt, and pepper for at least 30 minutes. Preheat a grill or skillet over medium heat and cook the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked. Let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.

Make the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Adjust the seasoning to taste.

Assemble the Bowl

In serving bowls, layer the cooked farro, sliced chicken, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, and red onion. Drizzle with the dressing and top with crumbled feta cheese and fresh parsley.

Enjoy your hearty and flavorful Mediterranean bowl!

Pro Tips

Feel free to add any vegetables you have on hand, such as spinach or roasted zucchini, for extra flavor and nutrition.

Ingredient Notes

Choosing the right farro is essential; there's whole, semi-pearled, and pearled options available. For this recipe, I recommend using semi-pearled farro as it strikes the ideal balance between cook time and nutritional value. Whole farro will take longer to cook, while pearled farro cooks faster but can lose some of its nutritional benefits.

When selecting vegetables, you can opt for seasonal produce to enhance freshness and flavor. Zucchini, spinach, or arugula can be excellent additions or alternatives to the cucumber and bell pepper. Just ensure that they are cut in a way that maintains a nice crunch, enhancing that refreshing texture contrast with the farro.

Serving Suggestions

This Mediterranean Farro Bowl is a great base for additional toppings that can cater to various tastes. A drizzle of balsamic glaze or a sprinkle of chili flakes can elevate the flavor profile dramatically. If you enjoy creamy textures, consider adding a dollop of Greek yogurt or tzatziki on top for a refreshing contrast.

For an outdoor gathering or potluck, this bowl can be served family-style in a large dish, allowing guests to customize their servings. Adding a side of warm pita bread or a light Mediterranean salad can make for a beautifully balanced meal that caters to both flavor and presentation.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use quinoa instead of farro?

Yes, quinoa is a great alternative and will give a slightly different texture while still being nutritious.

→ How can I make this dish vegetarian?

You can omit the chicken and substitute it with chickpeas or grilled tofu for a filling vegetarian option.

→ What else can I add to the bowl?

Try adding ingredients like olives, avocados, or roasted vegetables to customize your bowl.

→ Can I prepare this dish in advance?

Absolutely! The ingredients can be prepped ahead of time and assembled just before serving to keep everything fresh.