Dive into a bowl of comfort with our Butternut Squash and Chicken Farrotto, a delightful Italian-inspired dish that combines the heartiness of farro with the sweetness of roasted butternut squash. Imagine creamy grains enveloped in a rich chicken broth, perfectly complemented by tender chicken and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. This dish not only warms your soul but also tantalizes your taste buds, making it an ideal meal for any night of the week. Ready to impress your family or guests with a dish that’s both satisfying and nutritious? Let’s get cooking!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken breast, diced
- 1 cup farro
- 2 cups butternut squash, diced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- Prepare all ingredients by dicing the chicken breast into 1/2-inch cubes, chopping the onion finely, mincing the garlic, and cutting the butternut squash into small, uniform cubes.
- Heat olive oil in a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent and soft, approximately 3-4 minutes.
- Add minced garlic to the pot and cook for an additional 30-45 seconds, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
- Increase heat to medium-high and add diced chicken. Cook until the chicken is lightly browned on all sides and nearly cooked through, about 5-6 minutes.
- Add the farro to the pot and stir to coat the grains with oil, toasting them lightly for 1-2 minutes to enhance their nutty flavor.
- Pour in the chicken broth and add diced butternut squash. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
- Reduce heat to medium-low, cover the pot, and cook for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
- Check the farro for doneness - it should be tender but still have a slight bite. The consistency should be creamy, similar to risotto.
- Remove from heat and stir in grated Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Let the farrotto rest for 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the dish to thicken slightly.
- Serve hot, garnishing with additional Parmesan cheese if desired.
Tips
- Prep Ahead: To save time, chop all your ingredients in advance. This will streamline your cooking process and ensure a smooth experience in the kitchen.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh butternut squash and high-quality chicken broth for the best flavor. Fresh ingredients can elevate your dish and make it taste even more delicious.
- Toast the Farro: Don't skip the step of toasting the farro! This simple technique enhances its nutty flavor and adds depth to your dish.
- Check for Doneness: Keep an eye on the farro as it cooks. It should be tender but still have a slight bite to it, similar to al dente pasta. This texture is key to achieving the perfect farrotto.
- Rest Before Serving: Allowing the dish to rest for a few minutes after cooking helps the flavors meld together and gives it a creamier consistency.
- Garnish for Extra Flavor: Don’t hesitate to sprinkle a little extra Parmesan cheese on top before serving. A few fresh herbs, like parsley or thyme, can also add a burst of color and freshness.
- Experiment with Add-ins: Feel free to customize your farrotto with seasonal vegetables or spices. Spinach, kale, or even a pinch of nutmeg can add wonderful flavors and nutrition.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 40g
Protein: 30g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 85mg
