Mediterranean Farro Bowl With Chicken

Name: Mediterranean Farro Bowl With Chicken
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup farro; 2 cups vegetable broth; 2 chicken breasts, grilled and sliced; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 cucumber, diced; 1 bell pepper, diced; 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced; 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted; 4 cups mixed greens; 1/4 cup tahini; 2 tbsp lemon juice; 1 garlic clove, minced; Water, as needed for consistency; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Natural Cooking

I absolutely love making this Mediterranean Farro Bowl with Chicken! The combination of nutty farro, tender grilled chicken, and vibrant vegetables creates a deliciously wholesome meal. Each bite is packed with nutrition and flavor, making it a perfect weeknight dinner option. I enjoy customizing the toppings based on what I have on hand, and it always turns out great. With simple prep and fresh ingredients, this recipe quickly became a favorite in our household that I can’t wait to share with you!

Created by

Miranda Keats

Last updated on 2026-02-07T23:01:37.561Z

When I first decided to create a Mediterranean Farro Bowl with Chicken, I was inspired by the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean diet. I chose farro for its nutty taste and chewy texture, which pairs beautifully with grilled chicken and fresh veggies. It was such a delight to experiment with different ingredient combinations, and I found that adding a drizzle of tahini really elevates the dish.

After testing a few variations, I learned that cooking the farro with a bit of vegetable broth instead of water adds depth to its flavor. I also discovered that letting the chicken rest before slicing it keeps it juicy. This recipe is versatile, and I encourage you to mix and match ingredients based on your taste preferences!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

Nutty farro adds a unique texture and flavor.
Fresh vegetables offer a crunchy contrast to tender chicken.
A delicious tahini dressing ties everything together beautifully.

Cooking the Farro Perfectly

Farro is a versatile grain that offers a hearty texture and nutty flavor, which complements the fresh ingredients in this bowl. To ensure the farro is cooked perfectly, it's crucial to understand the difference between types of farro: pearled farro cooks faster than whole farro. For this recipe, I recommend using pearled farro as it will cook in about 30 minutes, yielding a slightly chewy texture. Rinse it under cold water before cooking to eliminate any dust or grit, which enhances the grain’s natural flavor.

When simmering the farro in vegetable broth, keep an eye on the level of liquid. If it begins to boil too vigorously, reduce the heat immediately to maintain a gentle simmer; this helps prevent the grains from becoming mushy. Once tender, drain any excess liquid and let it sit for a few minutes to absorb remaining moisture. This small step ensures that the farro is flavorful and fluffy, setting a solid foundation for the rest of the bowl.

Grilling Chicken to Perfection

Grilling chicken breasts adds a delightful smoky flavor that pairs beautifully with the freshness of the salad ingredients. To avoid dried-out chicken, make sure not to overcook it; medium heat is key. Aim for an internal temperature of 165°F for perfectly cooked chicken. As a personal tip, consider marinating the chicken breasts for at least 30 minutes prior to grilling with olive oil, salt, and a squeeze of lemon juice for added moisture and flavor.

Resting the grilled chicken for a few minutes after cooking allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more succulent bite. If you’re short on time, rotisserie chicken can be an excellent alternative; just ensure to slice it thinly to mimic the tender texture of grilled chicken while keeping the preparation time minimal.

Customizing Your Bowl

This Mediterranean Farro Bowl is highly customizable based on your preferences or seasonal produce. Experimenting with different vegetables can add new layers of flavor and texture; consider roasted zucchini or eggplant for a smoky richness, or roasted bell peppers for sweetness. You can also swap Kalamata olives for artichoke hearts or capers for a tangier punch—each addition can elevate the dish even further.

For dietary preferences, this bowl can easily accommodate vegetarian or vegan diets. Simply omit the chicken and add more protein-rich ingredients like chickpeas or lentils. For a creamy kick, avocado slices or Greek yogurt can be added to enhance the overall flavor profile. The tahini dressing is vegan-friendly, but if you prefer a non-vegan alternative, a yogurt dressing can be a delightful twist.

Ingredients

Ingredients:

For the Bowl

1 cup farro
2 cups vegetable broth
2 chicken breasts, grilled and sliced
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cucumber, diced
1 bell pepper, diced
1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted
4 cups mixed greens

For the Tahini Dressing

1/4 cup tahini
2 tbsp lemon juice
1 garlic clove, minced
Water, as needed for consistency
Salt and pepper to taste

Combine all ingredients to build your bowl.

Instructions

Steps:

Cook the Farro

In a pot, bring vegetable broth to a boil. Add farro, reduce heat, and simmer for 30 minutes until tender. Drain any excess liquid.

Prepare the Tahini Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together tahini, lemon juice, minced garlic, and salt. Add water gradually until you achieve the desired consistency.

Grill the Chicken

Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Grill over medium heat for 6-7 minutes on each side or until cooked through. Let rest before slicing.

Assemble the Bowl

In a large bowl, combine farro, grilled chicken, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, red onion, Kalamata olives, and mixed greens. Drizzle with tahini dressing.

Enjoy your Mediterranean Farro Bowl!

Pro Tips

Feel free to substitute any of the vegetables based on what you have available. Adding feta cheese can also enhance the flavor of the dish! For extra protein, consider adding chickpeas or using a different protein option.

Storing and Reheating

This bowl is not only delicious fresh but also makes for excellent leftovers. Store any components separately in airtight containers. The farro can last in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, and the grilled chicken should be consumed within the same timeframe for best flavor. Be wary of the veggies, as the freshness diminishes quickly—try to prepare them just before serving.

When reheating, avoid using the microwave for the farro if you want to maintain its chewy texture. Instead, reheat it gently in a skillet on low heat, adding a splash of water or vegetable broth to keep it moist. The grilled chicken can be reheated in an oven set to low heat (around 300°F) to achieve warmth without drying out.

Serving Suggestions

To serve this Mediterranean Farro Bowl, consider plating it in large bowls that allow for an artful presentation. Create a base with the farro, then layer the grilled chicken and a colorful arrangement of vegetables for visual appeal. A sprinkle of fresh herbs, such as parsley or dill, can add a burst of brightness and flavor right before serving.

Pair the bowl with flatbreads, like pita or lavash, for a more complete meal. You could also serve it alongside a light soup or a fresh garden salad to make it even heartier. If you're entertaining, setting out the components buffet-style allows guests to customize their own bowls, making it an interactive dining experience.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, the farro and chicken can be prepared in advance and stored separately in the refrigerator. Just assemble the bowl when ready to eat.

→ Is there a vegan version of this bowl?

Absolutely! You can replace chicken with grilled tofu or tempeh, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

→ How long does farro last in the fridge?

Cooked farro can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days in an airtight container.

→ Can I use other grains instead of farro?

Yes, quinoa or bulgur work well as alternatives. Just adjust the cooking time according to the grain you choose.