One Pot Chicken and Farro

Introduction

Get ready for a truly comforting and incredibly easy meal that will become a staple in your kitchen! Our One Pot Chicken and Farro is a dish that delivers big on flavor with minimal fuss. Imagine tender, juicy chicken pieces nestled among chewy, nutty farro, all simmered in a rich, savory broth with aromatic herbs and sweet tomatoes. It’s a hug in a bowl, perfect for any night of the week.

The best part? It all comes together in just one pot! This means less time spent on dishes and more time enjoying your delicious creation. We’re talking simple steps, everyday ingredients, and a cooking process that’s almost entirely hands-off. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you still want a wholesome, homemade meal without the stress.

So, clear your counter, grab your favorite Dutch oven or large pot, and let’s make some magic happen. You’re going to love how satisfying and simple this recipe is. Let’s dive in and create something wonderful together!

Cooking Time & Prep Time

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 35 minutes
• Total Time: 55 minutes

Small tip: Prepping all your ingredients (chopping vegetables, measuring liquids) before you start cooking will make the process much smoother and faster. This is called “mise en place”!

Ingredients

This recipe makes 4-6 servings.

• 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
• 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1 teaspoon salt, divided, plus more to taste
• 0.5 teaspoon black pepper, divided, plus more to taste
• 1 large yellow onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup pearled farro, rinsed
• 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
• 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 0.5 teaspoon dried rosemary
• 0.25 cup fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish (optional)
• 0.25 cup grated Parmesan cheese, for garnish (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Step 1: Sear the Chicken

   Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat. Season the chicken pieces with 0.5 teaspoon of salt and 0.25 teaspoon of black pepper. Add the chicken to the hot pot in a single layer. Cook for 3-4 minutes per side until nicely browned. The chicken doesn’t need to be cooked through at this stage. Remove the chicken from the pot and set aside on a plate.

   Small tip: Do not overcrowd the pan when searing the chicken. If necessary, cook the chicken in two batches to ensure a good sear.

2. Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

   Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil to the same pot. Reduce the heat to medium. Add the chopped onion and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened and translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.

3. Step 3: Add Farro and Tomatoes

   Stir in the rinsed farro, undrained diced tomatoes, dried thyme, and dried rosemary into the pot with the onions and garlic. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly, to lightly toast the farro and meld the flavors. This step adds depth to the dish.

4. Step 4: Introduce Broth and Chicken

   Pour in the chicken broth. Scrape the bottom of the pot with a wooden spoon to loosen any browned bits; these bits are full of flavor! Return the seared chicken pieces and any accumulated juices from the plate back into the pot. Stir everything gently to combine.

5. Step 5: Simmer to Perfection

   Bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot tightly, and simmer for 25-30 minutes. The farro should be tender and most of the liquid should be absorbed. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.

   Small tip: If the farro isn’t quite tender after 30 minutes, add a splash more broth or water and continue cooking for a few more minutes, checking frequently.

6. Step 6: Rest and Serve

   Once the farro is tender and the chicken is cooked through, remove the pot from the heat. Let it rest, covered, for 5 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld further and the farro to finish absorbing any remaining liquid. Taste and adjust seasoning with the remaining salt and pepper if needed. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley and grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.

Tips & Variations

• Gluten-Free Option: Farro contains gluten. To make this dish gluten-free, substitute the farro with 1 cup of brown rice or quinoa. Adjust the liquid amount and cooking time according to the package directions for your chosen grain. Always double-check that your chicken broth is certified gluten-free.
• Vegan or Vegetarian Option: Omit the chicken entirely. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. For added protein, stir in a can of rinsed and drained chickpeas or a cup of sliced mushrooms when you add the farro and tomatoes.
• Add More Vegetables or Protein: Feel free to boost the veggie content! Stir in a cup of fresh spinach or kale during the last 5 minutes of cooking. Diced carrots, celery, or bell peppers can be added with the onions in Step 2. For extra protein, you can add another half-pound of chicken or some cooked lentils.
• Spicy Version: For a little kick, add 0.5 teaspoon of red pepper flakes along with the dried herbs in Step 3. You can also finish the dish with a drizzle of your favorite hot sauce.
• Flavor Boosters: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice or a sprinkle of lemon zest at the end brightens the whole dish. You can also experiment with different herbs like dried oregano or a bay leaf added during simmering. A dollop of pesto stirred in just before serving is also delicious!

Nutritional Information

Approximate values per serving (based on 5 servings):

• Calories: 450
• Protein: 35g
• Carbohydrates: 40g
• Fat: 18g

Please note: These values are approximate and may vary depending on the specific brands and quantities of ingredients used.

Health Benefits

This One Pot Chicken and Farro is not just delicious, it’s packed with wholesome goodness for your body!

Farro: This ancient grain is a nutritional powerhouse. It’s an excellent source of dietary fiber, which aids digestion, helps regulate blood sugar levels, and can contribute to a feeling of fullness. Farro also provides a good amount of plant-based protein, magnesium, and B vitamins, supporting energy production and overall well-being.

Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are a lean source of high-quality protein. Protein is essential for building and repairing tissues, making enzymes and hormones, and supporting muscle growth. It also helps keep you feeling satisfied after your meal.

Tomatoes: Diced tomatoes bring a burst of flavor and a wealth of nutrients. They are rich in Vitamin C, an antioxidant that supports the immune system, and lycopene, another powerful antioxidant that has been linked to heart health benefits. Tomatoes also provide Vitamin K and potassium.

Onions and Garlic: These aromatic vegetables do more than just add incredible flavor. Onions contain antioxidants and compounds that may help reduce inflammation. Garlic is well-known for its immune-boosting properties and contains beneficial compounds like allicin, which has various health benefits.

Serving Suggestions

• Simple Side Salad: Serve this hearty dish alongside a crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette dressing. The fresh greens will provide a lovely contrast to the warm, savory main course.
• Crusty Bread: A slice of crusty bread is perfect for soaking up any delicious leftover sauce in your bowl.
• Main Dish Marvel: This One Pot Chicken and Farro is a complete meal on its own, making it an ideal main course for family dinners or entertaining friends.
• Meal Prep Dream: This dish is fantastic for meal prepping! Divide individual portions into airtight containers for quick and easy lunches or dinners throughout the week.

Storage Tips

Leftovers of One Pot Chicken and Farro can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, it freezes beautifully! Allow the dish to cool completely, then transfer to freezer-safe containers or bags and freeze for up to 2-3 months. When reheating, thaw overnight in the fridge if frozen. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop over medium-low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or water if the dish seems a bit dry.

Conclusion

There you have it – a truly remarkable meal that brings comfort, flavor, and ease all into one pot. Our One Pot Chicken and Farro is the kind of recipe that makes you feel like a gourmet chef, even on your busiest days. The tender chicken, the chewy farro, and the rich, herby sauce create a symphony of flavors that is both satisfying and incredibly delicious.

We truly hope you’ll give this recipe a try. It’s a perfect example of how simple ingredients can come together to create something truly special. Plus, with minimal cleanup, you’ll have more time to relax and enjoy the fruits of your labor.

So go ahead, whip up a batch, and share the warmth and deliciousness with your family and friends. This dish is sure to become a beloved favorite in your home, just as it is in ours!