Pin This The first time I made this bowl, I was trying to use up leftover roasted chicken and a random jar of tahini hiding in my pantry. My roommate walked in mid-assembly and asked if I'd secretly become a meal prep genius, which honestly felt like a massive compliment considering I'd thrown everything together in about fifteen minutes.
Last summer I made these for a beach day with friends, and we ended up eating them on the balcony because nobody wanted to leave the sunshine. The roasted chickpeas were the unexpected star of the show crispy, salty little bites that made the whole bowl feel special.
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Ingredients
- Chicken breasts: Boneless and skinless cooks evenly, and letting it rest before slicing keeps all the juices locked inside
- Farro: This nutty ancient grain holds its texture beautifully and feels substantial without being heavy
- Mixed greens: Baby spinach and arugula add fresh contrast to the warm roasted elements
- Chickpeas: Roasting them transforms canned beans into something entirely different and craveable
- Tahini: The creamy sesame base creates that restaurant quality sauce that pulls everything together
- Lemon juice: Fresh is non negotiable here, it brightens the entire bowl and cuts through the richness
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Instructions
- Prep and season the chicken:
- Rub the breasts with olive oil and spices until evenly coated, letting the cumin and smoked paprika really cling to the meat
- Roast the chicken:
- Bake at 400°F for 20 to 25 minutes until the juices run clear, then let it rest for at least five minutes before slicing into strips
- Cook the farro:
- Simmer the grains in salted water for 25 to 30 minutes until tender but still pleasantly chewy, then drain any excess liquid
- Crisp the chickpeas:
- Toss the rinsed beans with oil and spices, then roast until golden and crunchy, shaking the pan halfway through
- Make the sauce:
- Whisk tahini with lemon juice until it thickens, then slowly add water until you reach a drizzleable consistency
- Build your bowls:
- Layer farro first, then arrange the greens, chicken, chickpeas, and vegetables in sections so every bite gets a little of everything
- Finish with sauce:
- Drizzle generously over the top and serve right away while the chicken is still slightly warm
Pin This My sister now requests this for every family gathering, and I've started doubling the roasted chickpeas because people keep snacking on them while we're supposedly waiting for dinner to be ready.
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Make Ahead Strategy
You can roast the chicken and chickpeas up to three days ahead, and cook the farro in advance too. Just store the sauce separately and add fresh greens when you're ready to eat.
Sauce Consistency Secrets
Tahini thickness varies wildly between brands, so start with less water than you think you need. The perfect sauce should coat the back of a spoon and pool slightly without being thin or watery.
Bowl Assembly Tips
Think about color distribution as you build each bowl. A scatter of cherry tomatoes and cucumber throughout makes every forkful visually appealing and ensures balanced flavors in each bite.
- Warm farro creates a nice base contrast with crisp greens
- Slice chicken against the grain for tender pieces
- Extra sauce never hurts anyone
Pin This This bowl has become my go-to for those nights when I want dinner to feel special without actually requiring much effort at all.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I make this bowl gluten-free?
Absolutely. Simply substitute the farro with quinoa or brown rice. Both maintain the hearty texture while making the bowl completely gluten-free.
- → How long does the lemon tahini sauce last?
The sauce keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. You may need to whisk in a little water before using, as it thickens when chilled.
- → Can I use different vegetables?
Yes. Roasted bell peppers, shredded carrots, or sliced radishes work beautifully. The base components are flexible based on seasonal availability or personal preference.
- → Is the chicken seasoning adjustable?
Certainly. Add more smoked paprika for smokiness, or incorporate garlic powder and dried oregano for extra Mediterranean flair. Adjust spices to your taste preference.
- → Can I meal prep these bowls?
Yes. Store components separately in airtight containers for up to 4 days. Keep the sauce in a separate jar and drizzle just before serving to maintain optimal texture.
- → What protein alternatives work well?
Grilled salmon or shrimp would be excellent. For vegetarian options, try marinated tofu or additional roasted chickpeas with crumbled feta for protein.
