Greek Lemon Chicken Farro Soup Mendocino Farms Recipe

If you’re looking for a hearty, refreshing soup that combines the comforting warmth of a classic chicken soup with a burst of citrusy brightness, the Greek Lemon Chicken Farro Soup is an absolute winner. This recipe, inspired by Mendocino Farms’ vibrant approach to fresh and flavorful dishes, brings together tender chicken, earthy farro, zesty lemon, and a medley of Mediterranean flavors that will have your taste buds dancing.

Not only does this soup satisfy the soul, but it also packs a punch with healthy ingredients like lean chicken, fiber-rich farro, and fresh veggies. It’s the perfect balance between a cozy winter meal and a refreshing, bright soup that doesn’t feel too heavy. Whether you’re craving something that fills you up or want to impress your guests with a unique dish, this Greek-inspired soup ticks all the boxes.

Greek Lemon Chicken Farro Soup Mendocino Farms Recipe

This soup is a one-pot wonder, bringing together Mediterranean flavors with a modern twist. The combination of lemon and chicken provides the kind of brightness you want from a Greek dish, while the farro adds a lovely chewy texture and depth to the soup.

Let’s dive into the specifics of this delightful recipe!

Ingredients Needed

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Greek Lemon Chicken Farro Soup:

• Chicken Breasts (or Thighs): Boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs-both work well for this soup. Chicken thighs will yield a slightly richer, more flavorful broth, while chicken breasts give a leaner result.
• Farro: A hearty ancient grain that’s chewy and nutty, farro adds great texture to this soup.
• Olive Oil: The Mediterranean staple that brings depth and richness to the broth.
• Yellow Onion: A classic soup base, adding sweetness and flavor when sautéed.
• Carrots: These add a touch of sweetness and color, complementing the rest of the ingredients.
• Celery: For crunch and freshness, celery plays a supporting role in flavor and texture.
• Garlic: For that aromatic, earthy flavor that enhances the entire dish.
• Chicken Broth: The base of the soup, ensuring a savory foundation.
• Lemon (zested and juiced): Fresh lemon is the star ingredient, providing that signature Greek flavor profile. It gives the soup a refreshing zing.
• Fresh Dill: It’s an herb that pairs perfectly with the lemon, bringing that fresh, herby note typical of Greek cuisine.
• Salt and Pepper: For seasoning and balancing the flavors.
• Bay Leaves: For a slightly earthy, aromatic undertone in the broth.
• Fresh Spinach or Kale: Adds a touch of greenery and healthfulness to the soup.
• Greek Yogurt (optional): For garnish, adding creaminess and a tangy finish.

Cooking Instructions

1. Prepare The Farro

   • Begin by cooking the farro. In a medium pot, bring about 3 cups of water to a boil. Add the farro and a pinch of salt, and cook for about 20-25 minutes until tender. Drain and set aside.

2. Cook The Chicken

   • Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Season the chicken breasts (or thighs) with salt and pepper.
   • Cook the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side, until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the pot and set aside to cool slightly. Once cool enough to handle, shred the chicken using two forks.

3. Sauté The Vegetables

   • In the same pot, add another tablespoon of olive oil. Sauté the onion, carrot, celery, and garlic over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes, or until softened and fragrant.

4. Add The Broth And Seasonings

   • Pour in the chicken broth, bay leaves, and bring to a simmer. Let it cook for about 10 minutes so the flavors start to meld together.

5. Add The Farro And Chicken

   • Add the cooked farro and shredded chicken to the pot. Stir well and let the soup simmer for another 10 minutes, allowing all the ingredients to come together.

6. Finish With Lemon And Spinach

   • Stir in the lemon zest, lemon juice, and fresh spinach or kale. Cook for another 3-5 minutes, just until the greens are wilted and bright green.

7. Season And Serve

   • Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper. Remove the bay leaves, then ladle the soup into bowls.

8. Garnish

   • If desired, add a dollop of Greek yogurt to each bowl, sprinkle with fresh dill, and enjoy!

Ingredient Insights

Let’s dive deeper into the key ingredients that make this soup so special:

• Farro: Farro is an ancient grain packed with nutrients like fiber, protein, and iron. It’s often referred to as ’the world’s oldest cultivated grain’ and is a staple in Mediterranean diets. It adds a satisfying chewiness and helps to make the soup more filling.
• Lemon: In Greek cooking, lemon is a common flavor enhancer. It not only brings a bright, refreshing acidity to dishes, but it also balances the richness of the chicken and olive oil. The zest adds fragrance, while the juice gives a burst of freshness.
• Dill: Dill is essential in Greek cuisine and pairs perfectly with the lemon. Its fresh, slightly tangy flavor rounds out the soup, adding depth without overwhelming the other ingredients.
• Chicken: Using lean chicken breast or thighs as your protein source gives the soup a savory, protein-packed base. Shredded chicken allows for a tender bite in every spoonful, and the leftover cooking juices contribute to the richness of the broth.

Expert Tips

• Make it Ahead: This soup actually improves in flavor if you make it a day or two in advance. The farro absorbs more of the broth and flavors, making it even more delicious.
• Customize the Greens: You can substitute spinach with kale or even add in a handful of fresh herbs like parsley or basil for a unique twist.
• Control the Lemon: If you love lemon, feel free to add more lemon juice or zest to your taste. Just be careful not to overdo it-it’s all about balance.
• Add More Veggies: If you’re a fan of more veggies, throw in some zucchini or bell peppers for added texture and flavor.
• Creamy Touch: For a creamy version of the soup, stir in a bit of heavy cream or coconut milk just before serving.

Recipe Variations

There are a few ways to make this soup your own! Here are some variations you can try:

• Vegetarian Option: Skip the chicken and use vegetable broth for a fully plant-based soup. You can add chickpeas for protein and texture, or toss in some roasted cauliflower for extra flavor.
• Greek Style with Feta: Garnish the soup with crumbled feta cheese for a truly authentic Greek twist. The salty tanginess of feta pairs wonderfully with the bright lemon and herbs.
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or a chopped fresh chili to the soup to introduce some heat. This will complement the lemon’s brightness and add an extra layer of complexity.
• More Grains: Try substituting farro with other grains like quinoa or barley for different textures, or use couscous for a quicker-cooking option.

Final Words

This Greek Lemon Chicken Farro Soup is the perfect balance of health, comfort, and flavor. It brings together all the things you love about Greek cuisine-bright lemon, tender chicken, and fresh herbs-while adding a hearty, nutty twist with the farro. Whether you’re serving it as a light lunch or making it your main dinner, it’s guaranteed to satisfy your cravings.

The beauty of this soup lies not just in its flavor, but also in its versatility. With the ability to be made ahead and easily customized, it’s a wonderful addition to any meal rotation. Plus, it’s an easy way to pack in a variety of nutritious ingredients into one bowl!