Mediterranean Farro Bowl With Chicken

Name: Mediterranean Farro Bowl With Chicken
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup farro; 2 cups water or vegetable broth; 2 chicken breasts; 1 cucumber, diced; 1 bell pepper, diced; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced; 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled; 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped; 3 tablespoons olive oil; 2 tablespoons lemon juice; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; Salt and pepper to taste; 3 tablespoons olive oil; 2 tablespoons lemon juice; 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Global Cuisine

I absolutely love this Mediterranean Farro Bowl with Chicken! It's one of those meals that I can whip up quickly on a busy weeknight or savor during a leisurely weekend lunch. The nutty farro is paired perfectly with tender grilled chicken and a medley of fresh vegetables, creating a harmonious blend of flavors and textures. The addition of a zesty lemon dressing elevates this dish, making it refreshing and satisfying. Trust me, one bowl will leave you feeling both nourished and delighted!

Created by

Brianna Tate

Last updated on 2026-02-08T06:09:37.248Z

When I first created this Mediterranean Farro Bowl, I wanted to embrace the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean diet while keeping it simple and wholesome. I began by experimenting with various grains, and I found that farro's chewy texture and nutty flavor perfectly complemented the other ingredients. I also discovered that marinating the chicken overnight amplifies its flavor, resulting in succulent bites that bring the dish together.

To make this bowl even more special, I recommend adding a touch of fresh herbs like parsley or mint right before serving. These herbs not only enhance the dish's aroma but also add layers of freshness that are undeniably delicious. Trust me, using fresh ingredients really makes this farro bowl an unforgettable experience!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Nutty farro pairs beautifully with marinated grilled chicken
Packed with fresh vegetables for vibrant flavors
Light yet filling, perfect for any meal of the day

Understanding Farro

Farro is an ancient grain that adds a delightful nutty flavor and chewy texture to this Mediterranean bowl. When cooking farro, it’s important to keep an eye on the pot and stir occasionally to prevent sticking. The cooking time can vary depending on whether you use pearled, semi-pearled, or whole farro; aim for 25-30 minutes for semi-pearled. If you prefer a creamier texture, reduce the cooking time slightly and use a bit more liquid, as it will absorb more during cooking.

The benefits of incorporating farro are not just for taste; it’s also packed with nutrients including fiber, magnesium, and protein. For a gluten-free or low-carb alternative, you might consider substituting cooked quinoa or cauliflower rice, but remember that this will alter the flavor and texture dynamics of the dish.

Perfectly Grilled Chicken

Grilling the chicken adds depth of flavor that complements the fresh vegetables in the bowl. It's crucial to preheat your grill to medium-high heat, which means aiming for around 400-450°F (200-230°C) before placing the chicken on. This creates nice grill marks and ensures the meat cooks evenly. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness; the internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C). Overcooking can lead to dry chicken, so when in doubt, err on the side of slightly undercooking, as the chicken will continue to cook while resting.

For added flavor, consider experimenting with the marinade by incorporating different herbs like thyme or basil. If you're pressed for time, marinating for just 15 minutes can still impart some flavor, but aim for at least 30 minutes for a richer taste. If grilling isn’t an option, you can achieve similar results with a stovetop grill pan.

Dressing and Assembly Tips

The dressing is the finishing touch that brings this bowl together. Be sure to whisk the ingredients until the oil is glossy and emulsified. If you'd like a creamier dressing, consider adding a tablespoon of Greek yogurt or a dollop of tahini; this will provide a beautiful texture and additional creaminess that harmonizes well with the tangy lemon. Taste your dressing before serving—it should be bright and lively; adjust the lemon and seasoning according to your preference.

When assembling, layer the ingredients artfully to make it visually appealing. Start with a base of farro, followed by the veggies and grilled chicken on top. This not only looks beautiful but ensures that each bite includes a taste of everything. You can also prepare each component in advance and store them separately; this bowl can be enjoyed as a meal prep option, staying fresh in the refrigerator for up to four days.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to get started:

For the Bowl

1 cup farro
2 cups water or vegetable broth
2 chicken breasts
1 cucumber, diced
1 bell pepper, diced
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

For the Marinade

3 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons lemon juice
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried oregano
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Dressing

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

Make sure to have these ingredients on hand for a delicious meal!

Instructions

Follow these steps to prepare your Mediterranean Farro Bowl:

Prepare the Farro

In a pot, combine farro and water or broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 25-30 minutes until tender. Drain and set aside.

Marinate the Chicken

In a bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. Add chicken breasts and marinate for at least 30 minutes (or overnight for best flavor).

Grill the Chicken

Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Grill the marinated chicken for 6-7 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked. Let rest before slicing.

Prepare the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Set aside.

Assemble the Bowl

In a large bowl, combine farro, cucumber, bell pepper, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and feta cheese. Drizzle with dressing and toss to combine. Top with sliced grilled chicken and parsley.

Enjoy your Mediterranean Farro Bowl warm or at room temperature!

Pro Tips

For an extra layer of flavor, consider roasting the vegetables before adding them to the bowl. This will enhance their natural sweetness and give the dish a delicious depth.

Storage and Reheating

This Mediterranean Farro Bowl can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days, making it a convenient option for meal prep. If you've made extra farro or grilled chicken, those can also be stored separately to maintain freshness. To reheat, simply microwave until warmed through, typically around 1-2 minutes, depending on your microwave's power. I recommend adding a splash of water to the container before microwaving to prevent drying out.

If you find yourself with leftover dressing, feel free to store it separately in the fridge. It can last for about a week and can be used for salads or drizzling over other dishes. The flavors might intensify over time, so you may want to taste and adjust seasoning when reusing.

Variations and Customizations

This recipe is highly customizable based on seasonal vegetables or dietary preferences. Add in some roasted zucchini or asparagus for extra flavor in the summer or swap the chicken for grilled shrimp or chickpeas for a vegetarian option. Don't hesitate to experiment with grains; if farro isn't to your taste, barley or even brown rice can be good substitutes, but adjust cooking times accordingly based on the grain you choose.

To enhance the Mediterranean flair, try incorporating olives or sun-dried tomatoes as a garnish. These small additions can greatly elevate the dish's complexity and complement the creamy feta. Remember, cooking is all about experimenting—feel free to make this bowl your own!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I substitute quinoa for farro?

Yes, quinoa is a great alternative if you're looking for a gluten-free option!

→ How long does this bowl keep in the fridge?

The assembled bowl can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

→ Can I add other vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to add whatever vegetables you have on hand, like zucchini or carrots.

→ Is this dish suitable for meal prep?

Yes, this bowl is perfect for meal prep! Just keep the dressing separate until you're ready to eat.