Imagine a vibrant, refreshing salad that combines the hearty texture of perfectly cooked farro, the peppery kick of arugula, and the sweet burst of fresh strawberries – all topped with succulent grilled chicken. This Farro Arugula Strawberry Chicken Salad isn't just a meal; it's a culinary adventure that transforms ordinary ingredients into an extraordinary dining experience. Perfect for health-conscious foodies and flavor enthusiasts alike, this recipe promises to elevate your lunch or dinner game with its stunning combination of textures and tastes.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup farro, cooked
- 2 cups arugula
- 1 cup strawberries, sliced
- 1 lb grilled chicken, sliced
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinaigrette
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare farro according to package instructions: Rinse farro thoroughly under cold water. In a medium saucepan, combine 1 cup farro with 3 cups water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20 minutes until tender but slightly chewy.
- While farro is cooking, season chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Grill chicken for 6-7 minutes per side, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F. Let rest for 5 minutes, then slice thinly.
- Wash and dry arugula leaves. Slice fresh strawberries into thin, uniform pieces.
- Once farro is cooked, drain any excess water and let it cool to room temperature for 5-10 minutes. Fluff with a fork to prevent clumping.
- In a large salad bowl, combine cooled farro, fresh arugula, sliced strawberries, and grilled chicken.
- Drizzle balsamic vinaigrette over the salad. Gently toss all ingredients to ensure even coating.
- Season with additional salt and pepper to taste. Serve immediately at room temperature or slightly chilled.
Tips
- Farro Perfection: Rinse your farro thoroughly to remove any excess starch and ensure a fluffy, separate grain texture. Don't overcook – you want it slightly chewy!
- Chicken Mastery: Use a meat thermometer to ensure your chicken reaches exactly 165°F for food safety without drying out. Let it rest after grilling to retain maximum juiciness.
- Strawberry Selection: Choose ripe, deep red strawberries for the most intense flavor. If they're slightly tart, they'll add a wonderful contrast to the dressing.
- Vinaigrette Hack: For an extra flavor boost, whisk your balsamic vinaigrette with a touch of honey or Dijon mustard to enhance its complexity.
- Make-Ahead Tip: You can prepare farro and chicken in advance, making this a perfect meal-prep recipe. Just add fresh arugula and strawberries right before serving to maintain crisp textures.
- Serving Suggestion: For an elegant presentation, arrange ingredients in layers and drizzle vinaigrette just before serving to keep everything looking fresh and vibrant.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 90mg
