Spicy Peanut Chicken Farro Bowls for a Protein-Packed, Flavorful Meal

Looking for a nutritious, satisfying, and flavor-loaded bowl that checks all the boxes for taste and texture? These Spicy Peanut Chicken Farro Bowls are a vibrant combination of tender chicken, chewy farro, crisp vegetables, and a bold homemade peanut sauce that brings it all together.
Inspired by Asian-inspired grain bowls, this recipe is ideal for meal prepping ahead or building a balanced dinner that’s rich in protein, fiber, and heart-healthy fats. It is both comforting and energizing, making it a perfect one-bowl solution for busy days.
Ingredients
Serves 4
For the Chicken
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized strips
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon ground ginger
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For the Farro
- 1 cup uncooked farro
- 3 cups water or low-sodium chicken broth
- Pinch of salt
For the Spicy Peanut Sauce
- â…“ cup natural peanut butter
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon sriracha (adjust to taste)
- 2 teaspoons sesame oil
- 2 to 3 tablespoons warm water (to thin as needed)
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
For the Bowl Assembly
- 1 cup shredded red cabbage
- 1 cup julienned carrots
- 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- ¼ cup chopped roasted peanuts
- 2 tablespoons chopped green onion
- Optional: lime wedges and fresh cilantro for garnish
Preparation Time
- Prep time: 15 minutes
- Cook time: 25 minutes
- Total time: 40 minutes
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Farro
- Rinse the farro under cold water.
- In a medium saucepan, bring 3 cups of water or broth to a boil.
- Add farro and a pinch of salt, then reduce heat to low.
- Simmer uncovered for 20 to 25 minutes or until tender and chewy.
- Drain any excess liquid and set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add chicken, soy sauce, garlic powder, ginger, salt, and pepper.
- Sauté for 6 to 8 minutes or until the chicken is fully cooked and lightly browned.
- Remove from heat and cover to keep warm.
Step 3: Prepare the Spicy Peanut Sauce
- In a small bowl, whisk together peanut butter, soy sauce, rice vinegar, sriracha, honey, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger.
- Add warm water a tablespoon at a time until the sauce reaches a pourable consistency.
- Taste and adjust spice or sweetness as desired.
Step 4: Assemble the Bowls
- Divide cooked farro evenly among four bowls.
- Top each bowl with cooked chicken, red cabbage, carrots, and bell pepper.
- Drizzle generously with spicy peanut sauce.
- Sprinkle with chopped peanuts and green onions.
- Garnish with lime wedges or cilantro if desired and serve warm or at room temperature.
Serving Suggestions
- Add sliced avocado for extra creaminess and heart-healthy fats.
- Substitute quinoa or brown rice for farro if preferred.
- For a vegetarian version, replace chicken with crispy tofu or tempeh.
- These bowls can be served warm, chilled, or at room temperature — great for meal prep.
Nutritional Highlights
Nutrient | Per Serving (1 Bowl) |
---|---|
Calories | 540 |
Protein | 36 grams |
Total Fat | 24 grams |
Saturated Fat | 4 grams |
Carbohydrates | 45 grams |
Fiber | 8 grams |
Sugars | 9 grams |
Sodium | 590 milligrams |
Key Benefits:
- Farro provides complex carbs, fiber, and plant-based protein for long-lasting energy.
- Chicken contributes high-quality lean protein for muscle support and satiety.
- Peanut sauce offers healthy fats and bold flavor with a touch of spice.
- Vegetables add vitamins A and C, crunch, and color for a well-rounded meal.
Tips for Best Results
- Use pre-cooked farro to cut cooking time in half.
- For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in soy sauce and garlic for 30 minutes before cooking.
- Adjust the peanut sauce to your liking — more water for thinner, more sriracha for heat, more honey for sweetness.
- Meal prep tip: Store sauce separately until ready to eat to keep veggies crisp and fresh.
Spicy Peanut Chicken Farro Bowls are a nutritious, satisfying, and endlessly customizable way to enjoy whole grains, lean protein, and fresh vegetables. With its creamy, spicy peanut sauce and hearty farro base, this bowl delivers bold flavor and lasting fuel — perfect for lunch, dinner, or meal prepping your week ahead.