Prepare to transform your ordinary weeknight dinner into a culinary masterpiece that will make your taste buds dance with joy! This incredible Italian-inspired dish combines crispy, golden chicken thighs, hearty farro, and juicy burst tomatoes in a simple yet sophisticated recipe that looks like it came straight from a gourmet restaurant kitchen. Whether you're a cooking novice or a seasoned home chef, this mouthwatering meal promises to impress your family and friends with minimal effort and maximum flavor.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 chicken thighs
- 1 cup farro
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (218°C). Pat chicken thighs dry with paper towels and season generously with salt and pepper on both sides.
- Rinse farro under cold water and drain. In a medium saucepan, combine farro with 3 cups of water and a pinch of salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 25-30 minutes until tender but slightly chewy.
- Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Place chicken thighs skin-side down and cook for 5-6 minutes until skin is golden and crispy.
- Flip chicken thighs and add cherry tomatoes and minced garlic to the skillet. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and roast for 15-20 minutes, or until chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Drain the cooked farro and transfer to a serving platter. Arrange roasted chicken thighs and burst tomatoes on top of the farro.
- Garnish with fresh basil leaves, drizzle with any remaining pan juices, and serve immediately while hot.
Tips
- Pat the chicken thighs completely dry before seasoning to ensure the crispiest, most golden skin possible.
- Use an oven-safe skillet to minimize dish washing and create a seamless cooking process from stovetop to oven.
- For extra flavor, consider adding a pinch of dried herbs like thyme or oregano to the chicken seasoning.
- Make sure to use a meat thermometer to check that chicken reaches the safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Choose high-quality, fresh cherry tomatoes for the best burst of flavor and color.
- If farro seems unfamiliar, you can substitute with quinoa or brown rice, though cooking times may vary slightly.
- Fresh basil is crucial for the final garnish - it adds a bright, aromatic finish to the dish.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 420kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 30g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 120mg
