Chicken skewers with Mediterranean farro salad

Post Date:
13Jul, 2023

| Difficulty Level:   | Serves 2  | Prep Time: 15 min  | Cooking Time: 45 - 50 min |

This recipe brings together the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean region. With a nutritious base, this salad is sure to give you a happy heart and an even happier stomach.

 
   Ingredients for Salad:
3/4 Cup of Dry Farro (See Recipe Below)
1 Cup of Canned Chickpeas
1/2 Cup of Sliced and Dried Apricots
1/4 Cup of Diced Red Onions
1/4 Cup of Balsamic Vinaigrette (See Recipe Below)
5-7 Mint Leaves
Salt and Pepper (As Needed)
2 lb. of Diced Chicken (See Recipe Below)
 Ingredients for Balsamic Vinaigrette:
1/2 Cup of Balsamic Vinegar
2 Tbsp. of Honey
1 Tbsp. of Dijon Mustard
Salt and Pepper (As Needed)
1 Cup of Olive Oil
How to prepare Farro: 
  1. Rinse the Farro by placing it in a fine-mesh sieve or colander and rinse it under cold water to remove any dirt or debris.
  2. In a saucepan, combine 1 cup of Farro with 3 cups of water. You can add a pinch of salt, if desired. Place saucepan over high heat and bring the Farro and water to a boil.
  3. Once the water is boiling, reduce the heat to low and cover the saucepan with a lid. Let the Farro simmer for about 25-30 minutes, or until it is tender, but still chewy.
  4. Drain well and set aside.
How to prepare the Chicken
  1. Preheat your grill to a medium-high heat. If you are using a charcoal grill, ensure the coals are fully lit and have turned to a white ash before grilling.
  2. Thread the chicken cubes onto skewers, leaving a little space between each piece. If you are using wooden skewers, let the skewers soak in water for 20-30 minutes before assembling them.
  3. Season the chicken skewers with salt and pepper to your taste.
  4. Oil the grill grates by brushing them with oil to prevent the chicken from sticking.
  5. Place the chicken skewers directly on the grill, flat side down.
  6. Cook for about 4-5 minutes on one side, flip it, and cook it for 2 more minutes on the other side until the chicken is fully cooked through and has reached an internal temperature of 165°F.
How to prepare the Balsamic Vinaigrette:
  1. In a bowl, combine all ingredients.
  2. Whisk well to emulsify and set aside.
How to assemble the dish:
  1. Combine Chickpeas, Chopped Parsley, Dried Apricots, Chopped Red Onions, and Farro into a bowl. Add Balsamic Vinaigrette, Salt, and Pepper and toss well.
  2. Transfer to a your serving dishes. Top with the Chicken Skewers. Squeeze fresh lemon on top of chicken. 
  3. Garnish with fresh mint leaves.