Autumn whispers its arrival through the crisp air and colorful leaves, urging us to embrace hearty meals that nourish both body and soul. This is where the Honey Dijon Harvest Bowl comes in—a delightful ensemble of juicy marinated chicken, nutty farro, and an array of vibrant seasonal vegetables. It’s a wholesome dish that brings comfort to chilly nights, with the sweet crunch of Honeycrisp apples and the delightful tartness of cranberries. Not only is this recipe an effortless weeknight meal, but it’s also a crowd-pleaser perfect for gatherings, making it a versatile go-to for any occasion. Plus, it’s gluten-free and packed with protein, ensuring you feel satisfied without the heaviness. Are you ready to bring the flavors of fall to your table? Let’s dive into this delicious experience together! Why is the Honey Dijon Harvest Bowl a Must-Try? Comforting flavors come together in this beautiful bowl, making it the ultimate fall meal. Hearty and satisfying, the combination of marinated chicken, nutty farro, and roasted veggies provides a fulfilling experience. Easy to customize, you can substitute ingredients to fit your dietary needs! Meal prep friendly, this dish keeps well for busy weeks ahead. Crowd-pleaser status ensures everyone at your table will enjoy a wholesome serving. For more delightful flavors, you might also love these Honey Butter Rice or Bang Chicken Bowl recipes! Honey Dijon Harvest Bowl Ingredients For the Chicken • Chicken Tenderloins – A tender protein source that soaks up the vibrant flavors of the marinade; turkey or tofu can be great alternatives. For the Grain • Farro – This hearty grain brings fiber and a nutty flavor; consider quinoa or brown rice for a gluten-free option. For the Vegetables • Lacinato Kale – Packed with nutrients and a pleasant texture; you can substitute it with Swiss chard or spinach if you prefer. • Butternut Squash – Sweet and creamy when roasted, though sweet potatoes also work nicely in place of it. For the Toppings • Honeycrisp Apple – Provides a delightful crispness and sweetness; feel free to swap with any firm apple variety. • Dried Cranberries – Adds a burst of tartness; raisins or dried cherries can be an excellent replacement. • Feta Cheese – Contributes creaminess; omit it for a dairy-free version or try vegan cheese instead. • Raw Pumpkin Seeds – They offer a satisfying crunch and nuttiness; sunflower seeds or chopped nuts can be swapped in. For the Dressing & Seasoning • Olive Oil – Essential for roasting and drizzling; avocado oil can serve as a suitable substitute. • Salt, Pepper, and Seasonings (smoked paprika, lemon pepper) – Elevates flavors; adjust to your liking for the perfect Honey Dijon Harvest Bowl! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Honey Dijon Harvest Bowl Step 1: Marinate Chicken In a bowl, whisk together the honey Dijon dressing ingredients until smooth. Add the chicken tenderloins, ensuring they are well-coated, and let marinate in the refrigerator for 2-4 hours. This step is crucial as it infuses the chicken with rich flavors, making it juicy and tender for the Honey Dijon Harvest Bowl. Step 2: Cook Farro While the chicken marinates, bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the farro according to package instructions, usually about 25-30 minutes, until tender but still chewy. Drain any excess water and fluff the farro with a fork. Set aside for later layering in your delicious Honey Dijon Harvest Bowl. Step 3: Roast Pumpkin Seeds Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Toss the raw pumpkin seeds with a drizzle of olive oil and your choice of spices until evenly coated. Spread them on a baking sheet in a single layer and roast for 10-12 minutes, or until they turn golden and crispy. These seeds add a delightful crunch to your Honey Dijon Harvest Bowl. Step 4: Roast Kale Raise the oven temperature to 400°F (200°C). On a separate baking sheet, drizzle the lacinato kale with olive oil and sprinkle with salt. Massage the kale leaves gently and arrange them in a single layer. Bake for 8-10 minutes until they are crispy and slightly charred. This roasted kale will provide a nutritious texture in your Honey Dijon Harvest Bowl. Step 5: Roast Butternut Squash Lower the oven temperature to 425°F (220°C). Toss the butternut squash cubes with olive oil, salt, and pepper, making sure they are well-coated. Spread them out on a baking sheet and roast for about 20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are tender and caramelized. This sweet addition enhances the flavors of your Honey Dijon Harvest Bowl. Step 6: Cook Chicken Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (400-425°F or 200-220°C). Remove the chicken from the marinade and grill for 6-8 minutes, flipping halfway through until the chicken is fully cooked and has nice grill marks. Alternatively, you can bake the marinated chicken in the oven at 425°F (220°C) for 15-20 minutes. This ensures the chicken is juicy and flavorful for the Honey Dijon Harvest Bowl. Step 7: Assemble Bowls To put together your Honey Dijon Harvest Bowl, start by layering a generous scoop of cooked farro at the base of each bowl. Add crispy roasted kale, sweet butternut squash, slices of Honeycrisp apple, and the grilled chicken. Top it off with crumbled feta, dried cranberries, and a sprinkle of crunchy pumpkin seeds. Drizzle with additional honey Dijon dressing if desired, and enjoy your colorful masterpiece! What to Serve with Honey Dijon Harvest Bowl? Embrace the essence of fall with delightful pairings that elevate your Honey Dijon Harvest Bowl into an unforgettable feast. Crispy Brussels Sprouts: The slight bitterness and crunch of roasted Brussels sprouts provide a delicious contrast to the sweet and savory elements in your bowl. Roast them with olive oil and a sprinkle of salt to create a perfect harmony of flavors. Garlic Herb Quinoa: A fluffy, nutty grain like quinoa complements the heartiness of the farro while offering a gluten-free alternative. Infuse it with garlic and fresh herbs to enhance every bite of your meal. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Their natural sweetness mirrors the honey’s flavor, creating a beautifully balanced dish. Simply toss with olive oil and your favorite spices for a tasty addition. Creamy Avocado Salad: A light, refreshing salad made with avocados, cherry tomatoes, and a tangy vinaigrette balances the heartiness of the bowl. Its creamy texture adds a delightful element without overpowering the overall dish. Cranberry Almond Bread: A cozy slice of cranberry almond bread works wonderfully as a side or dessert, bringing sweet and nutty flavors that merge beautifully with the harvest bowl. Serve it warm for an inviting touch. Sparkling Apple Cider: A sparkling drink is an ideal pairing, as its fizz and fruity notes complement the sugars in the Honey Dijon Harvest Bowl. It’s the perfect way to toast those chilly fall evenings. Autumn Fruit Crisp: A warm fruit crisp made with apples and a crunchy oat topping brings a sweet finish to your meal, echoing the delicious flavors of the bowl. Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent treat. Maple Roasted Carrots: Sweet, tender carrots add a vibrant splash of color and an earthy sweetness that rounds out the meal beautifully. Roast them with maple syrup for added depth that complements the dish’s honey notes. Honey Dijon Harvest Bowl Variations Feel free to make this Honey Dijon Harvest Bowl uniquely yours with these delicious and easy variations! Grain Swap: Replace farro with quinoa or barley for a different texture and taste. Vegetable Boost: Add roasted Brussels sprouts or sweet potatoes to elevate your veggie profile. Protein Options: Swap chicken for turkey or crispy tofu for a delightful vegetarian alternative. Vegan Twist: Omit feta and use tahini dressing for creaminess without dairy. Sweet & Savory: Drizzle balsamic glaze over the bowl for an exciting flavor contrast. Heat It Up: Add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes or a dash of sriracha for a spicy kick. Nutty Flavors: Incorporate roasted almonds or walnuts instead of pumpkin seeds for extra crunch. Herb Enhancements: Toss in fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley just before serving for a pop of freshness. Every bite of this bowl can be a new experience! If you love the combination of sweet and savory, you might enjoy experimenting with flavors from other recipes like Honey Butter Cornbread or the indulgent taste of Honey BBQ Chicken. Enjoy creating your ideal Honey Dijon Harvest Bowl! Storage Tips for Honey Dijon Harvest Bowl Fridge: Store leftover Honey Dijon Harvest Bowl components in airtight containers; they will stay fresh for up to 3-4 days. Freezer: For longer storage, freeze cooked chicken and vegetables separately in freezer-safe bags for up to 2 months. Reheating: Thaw items overnight in the fridge before reheating. Warm in the oven or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water to retain moisture. Dressing Storage: Keep the honey Dijon dressing separate from the assembled bowls until ready to serve for maximum freshness and flavor. Expert Tips for the Honey Dijon Harvest Bowl Rest the Chicken: Allow marinated chicken to rest for a few minutes after cooking to retain its juices and ensure a tender bite in your Honey Dijon Harvest Bowl. Spacing is Key: When roasting vegetables, make sure to spread them out on baking sheets to ensure even cooking and avoid steaming—this enhances flavor and texture. Use Fresh Herbs: Boost the flavor profile by adding fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary. They complement the honey Dijon dressing beautifully in the harvest bowl. Prep Ahead: Marinate your chicken and roast the vegetables in advance. Assembling the bowls later can save time on busy weeknights, making your Honey Dijon Harvest Bowl a meal prep star. Mind Cooking Times: Keep an eye on the cooking times for each element. Overcooking can lead to dry chicken or mushy veggies, so make adjustments based on your oven’s quirks. Make Ahead Options The Honey Dijon Harvest Bowl is perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time during busy weeknights! You can marinate the chicken tenderloins up to 24 hours in advance, ensuring they soak up those rich flavors. Additionally, you can prepare the farro and roast the butternut squash and kale up to 3 days ahead; simply refrigerate them in airtight containers to keep them fresh. When you’re ready to enjoy your bowl, just heat the chicken and veggies, assemble the ingredients, and drizzle with dressing. This way, you’ll have a delicious, wholesome meal that’s just as delightful as if it were freshly made! Honey Dijon Harvest Bowl Recipe FAQs What type of chicken is best for the Honey Dijon Harvest Bowl? For this recipe, I recommend using chicken tenderloins as they are juicy and absorb marinade flavors beautifully. If you’re looking for a substitute, turkey tenderloins or tofu will work wonderfully for a vegetarian option! How should I store leftovers from the Honey Dijon Harvest Bowl? Store the leftover components in airtight containers in the fridge. They will remain fresh for about 3-4 days. To keep everything at its best, it’s safer to store the dressing separately from the assembled bowls until you’re ready to enjoy them again. Can I freeze the Honey Dijon Harvest Bowl? Absolutely! To freeze, individually pack the cooked chicken and roasted vegetables in freezer-safe bags, ensuring to remove as much air as possible. They can be stored for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw them in the fridge overnight before reheating. What if my kale doesn’t crisp up while roasting? If your kale isn’t crispy, it may have been overcrowded on the baking sheet, causing it to steam rather than roast. Make sure to spread the kale out evenly and keep an eye on it during baking. If needed, increase the oven temperature slightly and keep roasting until crispy. Are there any allergens in the Honey Dijon Harvest Bowl recipe? Yes, this recipe contains potential allergens like chicken, feta cheese, and gluten (in farro). If you’re making this dish for someone with allergies, consider using dairy-free cheese alternatives, and swap farro with quinoa or brown rice for a gluten-free option! Hearty Honey Dijon Harvest Bowl for a Cozy Fall Feast Enjoy the comforting Honey Dijon Harvest Bowl, a perfect blend of marinated chicken, nutty farro, and seasonal vegetables for a cozy meal. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 15 minutes minsCook Time 1 hour hrMarinating Time 2 hours hrsTotal Time 3 hours hrs 15 minutes mins Servings: 4 bowlsCourse: SaladCuisine: AmericanCalories: 450 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Chicken1 lb Chicken Tenderloins or turkey/tofu as alternativesFor the Grain1 cup Farro or quinoa/brown rice for gluten-freeFor the Vegetables2 cups Lacinato Kale or Swiss chard/spinach2 cups Butternut Squash or sweet potatoesFor the Toppings1 each Honeycrisp Apple or any firm apple variety1/2 cup Dried Cranberries or raisins/dried cherries1/2 cup Feta Cheese omit for dairy-free or replace with vegan cheese1/4 cup Raw Pumpkin Seeds or sunflower seeds/chopped nutsFor the Dressing & Seasoning3 tablespoons Olive Oil or avocado oilto taste Saltto taste Pepper1 teaspoon Smoked Paprika1 teaspoon Lemon Pepper Equipment whiskbowlpotOvenGrillBaking sheet Method Marinate ChickenIn a bowl, whisk together the honey Dijon dressing ingredients until smooth. Add the chicken tenderloins, ensuring they are well-coated, and let marinate in the refrigerator for 2-4 hours.Cook FarroBring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the farro according to package instructions, about 25-30 minutes. Drain and fluff with a fork.Roast Pumpkin SeedsPreheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Toss pumpkin seeds with olive oil and spices. Spread on a baking sheet and roast for 10-12 minutes.Roast KaleRaise oven to 400°F (200°C). Drizzle kale with olive oil and salt, massage leaves, and bake for 8-10 minutes.Roast Butternut SquashLower oven to 425°F (220°C). Toss butternut squash with olive oil, salt, and pepper; roast for about 20 minutes.Cook ChickenPreheat grill to medium-high heat. Grill chicken for 6-8 minutes, flipping halfway through, or bake at 425°F (220°C) for 15-20 minutes.Assemble BowlsLayer farro at the base of each bowl, add crispy kale, butternut squash, apple slices, and grilled chicken. Top with feta, cranberries, and pumpkin seeds, and drizzle with dressing. Nutrition Serving: 1bowlCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 50gProtein: 30gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 500mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 10gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 1800IUVitamin C: 40mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 3mg NotesFor best results, rest the chicken after cooking and use fresh herbs for added flavor. Meal prep friendly; store components separately for freshness. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
