A prep recipe with a plan

Lemon Herb Chicken Grain Bowls Recipe

A measured lemon herb chicken grain bowls prep recipe for 4 servings, with packing, storage, and reheating notes.

Makes

4 servings

Prep time

40 min

Best for

Portable

Flavor

Bright, savory, and fresh

chicken
farro
cucumber
lemon
Lemon herb chicken grain bowl with quinoa, cucumber, tomatoes, and herbs

The useful part

How to prep it

  1. 1

    Heat the oven to 425°F. Toss the chicken with 1 tablespoon olive oil, garlic, salt, pepper, and half the lemon zest, then roast on a sheet pan for 18 to 22 minutes until it reaches 165°F.

  2. 2

    Meanwhile, simmer the farro in salted water until tender, about 25 minutes; drain well and toss with 1 tablespoon olive oil and the remaining lemon zest.

  3. 3

    Chop the cucumber and tomatoes, then whisk the remaining olive oil with the lemon juice and parsley.

  4. 4

    Slice the chicken and divide it with the farro and vegetables into four containers. Pack the dressing separately so the cucumber stays crisp.

Work with what you have

Easy substitutions

Use the closest swap that fits what you have and how you plan to pack it.

farro

quinoa or brown rice, cooked by its package directions

chicken

canned chickpeas or baked tofu for a meatless bowl

Make the next meal easier

Leftover plan

Leftover plan

Turn extra chicken and grains into a pita filling; add the cucumber and dressing just before eating.

Storage

Cool portions in shallow sealed containers, refrigerate within 2 hours, and use within 3 days.

Reheat

Reheat the chicken and farro separately in the microwave or a skillet, then add the chilled vegetables and dressing.

Food safety guidance

For cooling, storing, and reheating details, use the USDA references below.