Ingredients
Method
- Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
- Season chicken thighs with salt and black pepper, then add them to the pot. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until browned but not fully cooked through. Remove the chicken and set aside.
- In the same pot, add diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until softened and fragrant.
- Add the rinsed farro to the pot, stirring to coat it in the oil and aromatics.
- Pour in chicken broth and white wine (if using), then stir in dried thyme and smoked paprika.
- Return the browned chicken to the pot, along with any juices that may have accumulated.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for 25-30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the farro is tender and the liquid is mostly absorbed.
- Add cherry tomatoes and baby spinach to the pot. Stir and cook for 2-3 minutes until the spinach is wilted and the tomatoes are slightly softened.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
- Serve warm, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Notes
You can substitute farro with barley or quinoa for a different texture. For a vegetarian version, replace chicken with chickpeas and use vegetable broth.
