Chicken with Broccoli, Beets, and Farro Salad is a wholesome and vibrant dish that combines tender, juicy chicken with nutrient-packed vegetables and hearty farro. The broccoli adds a crisp, earthy bite, while the sweet, roasted beets bring a beautiful pop of color and natural sweetness. Tossed with nutty farro and a tangy vinaigrette, this salad is a perfect balance of flavors and textures.
I first made Chicken with Broccoli, Beets, and Farro Salad when I wanted a light but satisfying meal, and it quickly became a favorite. The farro’s chewy texture complements the tender chicken and crisp-tender broccoli, while the beets add both flavor and visual appeal. What I love most about this dish is its versatility—you can serve it warm or chilled, and it’s easy to customize with your favorite greens or a sprinkle of feta cheese. Chicken with Broccoli, Beets, and Farro Salad is perfect for meal prep, a healthy lunch, or a colorful dinner that feels as good as it tastes!
Perfect for:
- Healthy weeknight dinners
- Meal prep
- Light lunches
- Post-workout meals
- Vegetable lovers
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Here are 10 reasons why this Chicken with Broccoli, Beets, and Farro Salad will become your go-to meal:
- Nutrient-Dense: Packed with protein, fiber, vitamins, and minerals to fuel your day.
- Fresh and Flavorful: The combination of roasted beets, broccoli, and grilled chicken provides a fresh, earthy flavor profile.
- Satisfying Texture: Farro adds a chewy and satisfying texture that complements the crisp veggies and tender chicken.
- Quick and Easy: This salad comes together in under an hour, perfect for a busy weeknight.
- Meal Prep Friendly: Make a big batch to enjoy throughout the week for easy, healthy lunches.
- Versatile Dressing Options: Use your favorite vinaigrette, or try a tangy lemon-tahini dressing for added zing.
- Great for All Diets: Suitable for gluten-free and dairy-free diets, depending on the dressing choice.
- Perfect Balance of Flavors: The sweetness of the beets contrasts beautifully with the savory chicken and nutty farro.
- Customizable Ingredients: Add your favorite nuts, seeds, or extra veggies to make the salad even more satisfying.
- Feel-Good Meal: A light yet filling meal that leaves you feeling energized without feeling heavy.
Preparation and Cooking Time
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Preparation Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 30 minutes
- Servings: 4 servings
- Calories per serving: Approximately 400-450 calories
- Key Nutrients: Protein: 35g, Carbs: 45g, Fat: 12g
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
The Salad:
- 1 cup farro
- 2 medium beets, peeled and cut into cubes
- 1 bunch broccoli, cut into florets
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Dressing:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon honey
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Optional Garnish:
- Chopped fresh parsley
- Crumbled feta cheese or goat cheese
- Toasted sunflower seeds or almonds
Ingredient Highlights
- Farro: A whole grain packed with fiber and protein, giving the salad a satisfying, nutty flavor.
- Beets: Rich in antioxidants and vitamins, providing natural sweetness and vibrant color.
- Broccoli: A cruciferous vegetable high in vitamin C and fiber, adding crunch and a mild, earthy taste.
- Chicken: Lean protein that pairs perfectly with the veggies for a balanced meal.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Cook the Chicken:
- Preheat Grill or Pan: Heat a grill or a skillet over medium-high heat.
- Season Chicken: Rub the chicken breasts with olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Cook Chicken: Grill or cook the chicken for 6-7 minutes on each side, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
Prepare the Salad:
- Cook the Farro: In a medium saucepan, bring 3 cups of water to a boil. Add the farro and reduce the heat to a simmer. Cook for 20-25 minutes, or until tender. Drain any excess water and set aside.
- Roast the Beets: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the beet cubes with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread them in a single layer on a baking sheet and roast for 25-30 minutes, or until tender.
- Blanch the Broccoli: Bring a small pot of water to a boil and add the broccoli florets. Cook for 2-3 minutes until bright green and tender-crisp. Drain and immediately transfer to an ice bath to stop the cooking process.
Make the Dressing:
- Mix the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and pepper until smooth.
Assemble the Salad:
- Combine the Salad: In a large bowl, combine the cooked farro, roasted beets, blanched broccoli, and sliced chicken.
- Dress the Salad: Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.
Serve:
- Garnish and Enjoy: Top with chopped fresh parsley, crumbled feta, and toasted sunflower seeds or almonds for extra crunch.
How to Serve
Here are 10 serving suggestions for Chicken with Broccoli, Beets, and Farro Salad:
- For Meal Prep: Portion the salad into containers for easy grab-and-go lunches throughout the week.
- With a Side of Whole-Grain Bread: Serve with a slice of crusty whole-grain bread for a complete meal.
- As a Protein-Packed Lunch: This salad makes a filling and satisfying lunch, perfect for staying energized all afternoon.
- With a Fresh Lemon Wedge: Squeeze a bit of fresh lemon juice over the salad for added freshness.
- With Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Serve alongside roasted sweet potatoes for an even heartier meal.
- For a Light Dinner: Perfect for a lighter evening meal that’s full of flavor and nutrients.
- As a Pre-Workout Meal: Packed with protein and fiber, it’s ideal for fueling your body before a workout.
- With Avocado Slices: Add sliced avocado for extra healthy fats and creaminess.
- As a Picnic Dish: This salad is great for taking to picnics, as it keeps well and tastes delicious cold.
- With a Side of Hummus: Pair with a small serving of hummus for an extra boost of protein.
Additional Tips
- Chill the Farro: For a cold version of the salad, allow the farro to cool before mixing with the veggies.
- Season to Taste: Feel free to adjust the seasoning in the dressing to suit your taste preferences.
- Meal Prep Tip: Store the salad and dressing separately if prepping ahead to keep everything fresh.
- Add More Veggies: Toss in any other favorite veggies like carrots, arugula, or bell peppers for extra crunch.
Recipe Variations
- Add Roasted Chicken: For extra flavor, use roasted chicken instead of grilled chicken.
- Swap Farro for Quinoa: Substitute quinoa for a gluten-free option.
- Use Kale Instead of Broccoli: Swap in kale or spinach for a leafy green alternative.
- Add Nuts or Seeds: Top with crushed walnuts, pecans, or pumpkin seeds for an added crunch.
- Make It Vegan: Replace the chicken with chickpeas or tofu for a plant-based version.
- Add a Balsamic Glaze: Drizzle a balsamic reduction over the salad for added sweetness and tang.
- Add Goat Cheese: Crumble goat cheese on top for a tangy and creamy touch.
- Roasted Carrots: Add roasted carrots for extra flavor and color.
- Lemon-Tahini Dressing: For a twist, swap the dressing for a creamy lemon-tahini version.
Special Equipment
- Grill or Skillet: For cooking the chicken to perfection.
- Medium Saucepan: To cook the farro.
- Baking Sheet: For roasting the beets.
- Large Bowl: For tossing the salad ingredients together.
- Whisk: For making the dressing.
- Ice Bath: To stop the broccoli from cooking further after blanching.
FAQ Section
- Can I use frozen beets instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen beets work well—just be sure to thaw and roast them before using. - How long does this salad last in the fridge?
This salad can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days in an airtight container. - Can I freeze this salad?
It’s best served fresh, but you can freeze the cooked chicken and farro separately. - Can I make this salad vegetarian?
Yes, skip the chicken and add extra beans or tofu for protein. - Can I use a different grain?
Yes, you can substitute quinoa, couscous, or brown rice for the farro. - How do I reheat the chicken?
Reheat the chicken in a skillet or microwave before adding it to the salad. - Can I add other vegetables?
Yes, feel free to add any vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or even roasted sweet potatoes. - What can I use instead of Dijon mustard in the dressing?
You can substitute with yellow mustard or omit it entirely for a milder flavor. - Can I make the dressing ahead of time?
Yes, the dressing can be made in advance and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. - Can I make this salad spicy?
Yes, add a pinch of chili flakes or a drizzle of hot sauce to the dressing for some heat.
Conclusion
Chicken with Broccoli, Beets, and Farro Salad is a wholesome and hearty dish that’s as nutritious as it is flavorful. Juicy, perfectly cooked chicken pairs beautifully with tender broccoli, earthy roasted beets, and nutty farro, creating a salad that’s packed with textures and tastes. Tossed in a light vinaigrette or a zesty lemon dressing, this dish strikes the perfect balance between savory and fresh.
The farro provides a chewy, satisfying base, while the broccoli adds a vibrant crunch and the beets contribute natural sweetness and color. For added flair, sprinkle on some crumbled feta, toasted nuts, or fresh herbs like parsley or dill. This salad makes for a great lunch, light dinner, or even a meal-prep option that keeps well throughout the week.
I can’t wait to see how your Chicken with Broccoli, Beets, and Farro Salad turns out! Be sure to share your photos on Instagram and tag me—I’d love to see your beautiful creations. Don’t forget to leave a comment and let me know how you made this dish your own!