As I was strolling through the farmer’s market last weekend, the vibrant hues of autumn produce caught my eye—pumpkins, squash, and crisp apples, all just begging to be transformed into something memorable. That’s when I decided to whip up my Honey Dijon Harvest Bowl, a delightful medley that celebrates the season’s bounty. The heartiness of farro, paired with honey-dijon marinated chicken and roasted vegetables, creates a wholesome dish perfect for meal prep or impressing guests at your next gathering. Not only is it packed with high protein, but it’s also a comforting, nutrient-rich option that will make your kitchen feel like fall. Curious to take a bite of autumn? Let’s dive into the recipe! Why is the Honey Dijon Harvest Bowl special? Wholesome Nourishment: This bowl is a power-packed combination of protein and fiber, making it a great choice for a balanced meal. Autumnal Inspiration: Featuring seasonal ingredients like butternut squash and Honeycrisp apples, it’s a celebration of fall flavors that instantly warms the heart. Versatile Serving: Perfect for both cozy dinners and impressive gatherings, it appeals to everyone—family, friends, and guests alike. Easy Meal Prep: Cook once and enjoy multiple servings—ideal for busy weeks. Just prep your ingredients and assemble when ready! Deliciously Unique: With the sweet-savory allure of honey-dijon chicken and crunchy pumpkin seeds, every bite offers a delightful contrast of textures and flavors. Honey Dijon Harvest Bowl Ingredients For the Chicken • Chicken Tenderloins – Main protein source; thighs add juiciness and flavor. • Honey – Provides sweetness that pairs perfectly with the Dijon. • Dijon Mustard – Adds a tangy depth, enhancing the overall flavor profile. • Olive Oil – Used for marinating; avocado oil can be a great substitute. For the Grain • Farro – Offers a chewy texture and nutty flavor; quinoa or brown rice works for a gluten-free version. For the Vegetables • Lacinato Kale – Adds nutrition and a hearty texture; substitute with spinach for a softer flavor. • Butternut Squash – Brings natural sweetness; sweet potatoes can be used as an alternative. • Pumpkin Seeds – Add crunch and healthy fats; try sunflower seeds or almonds if preferred. For the Toppings • Honeycrisp Apple – Introduces a crisp, sweet crunch; any sturdy apple variety can replace it. • Dried Cranberries – Offer a tart contrast; raisins or chopped dried apricots can work well too. • Feta Cheese – Adds a creamy saltiness; goat cheese is a delicious alternative. For Seasoning • Salt and Pepper – Essential for enhancing flavors; adjust to taste. • Additional Seasonings – Experiment with herbs like thyme or rosemary to elevate flavor depth. Dive into this wholesome Honey Dijon Harvest Bowl and savor the flavors of autumn! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Honey Dijon Harvest Bowl Step 1: Marinate the Chicken Begin by whisking together honey, Dijon mustard, and olive oil in a bowl. Place the chicken tenderloins in a resealable bag or bowl, pour the marinade over them, and massage it in for even coating. Seal and refrigerate for 2–4 hours, allowing the flavors to develop. This step is crucial for infusing the chicken with that signature sweet-savory flavor of the Honey Dijon Harvest Bowl. Step 2: Cook the Farro While the chicken marinates, prepare the farro according to package instructions, typically simmering it in salted water for about 25–30 minutes until tender but slightly chewy. Once cooked, drain any excess water and set the farro aside. This hearty grain will serve as the nutritious base for your Honey Dijon Harvest Bowl. Step 3: Roast the Pumpkin Seeds Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a mixing bowl, toss the pumpkin seeds with olive oil, salt, and a pinch of smoked paprika. Spread them out evenly on a baking sheet and roast in the oven for 10–12 minutes, or until golden and fragrant. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning—these crunchy seeds will add delightful texture to your Honey Dijon Harvest Bowl. Step 4: Roast the Kale Increase the oven temperature to 400°F (200°C) and prepare the kale by tearing it into bite-sized pieces. Toss the kale with olive oil and a sprinkle of salt until well-coated. Spread the kale on a baking sheet and roast for 8–10 minutes until crisp, but not charred. This crispy kale will add a nutritious and crunchy element to your Honey Dijon Harvest Bowl. Step 5: Roast the Butternut Squash Next, prepare the butternut squash by peeling and cubing it into bite-sized pieces. Toss these cubes with a drizzle of olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Spread them evenly on a baking sheet and roast in the oven at 425°F (220°C) for about 20 minutes, or until tender and lightly caramelized. The roasted squash enhances the overall sweetness of your Honey Dijon Harvest Bowl. Step 6: Cook the Chicken Remove the marinated chicken from the refrigerator. You can choose to grill it over medium heat for about 4–6 minutes per side or bake it at 375°F (190°C) for 15–20 minutes. Cook until the chicken is no longer pink and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Properly cooked chicken is essential for a juicy and flavorful Honey Dijon Harvest Bowl. Step 7: Assemble the Bowls Now, it’s time to layer your Honey Dijon Harvest Bowl! Start with a generous base of cooked farro, then add a layer of roasted kale, followed by roasted butternut squash. Slice the grilled chicken and add it to the bowl, along with Honeycrisp apple slices, crumbled feta cheese, and a sprinkle of dried cranberries. Finish with a handful of crunchy pumpkin seeds and drizzle with any leftover dressing for a delicious, harmonious meal. What to Serve with Honey Dijon Harvest Bowl Create a delightful and complete meal experience that captures the essence of autumn’s bounty and warmth. Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The smooth, buttery texture of mashed potatoes complements the hearty bowl, making every bite comforting and indulgent. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Their crispy exterior and tender interior offer a delightful crunch that pairs well with the sweetness of the Honey Dijon chicken. Garlic Bread: Warm, crusty garlic bread serves as a perfect side for scooping up the delicious flavors of the bowl, enhancing the experience. Cranberry Walnut Salad: A bright, refreshing salad with bitter greens, tart cranberries, and crunchy walnuts adds a balance of flavors and textures to your meal. Honey Glazed Carrots: Their natural sweetness echoes the bowl’s honey-dijon dressing, creating a harmonious blend of flavors and vibrant color. Sparkling Apple Cider: A festive drink that mirrors the apple and honey notes in the bowl, elevating the meal with its bubbly refreshment. Pumpkin Spice Muffins: For dessert, these moist treats carry the season’s spices into the meal, making it an autumnal feast from start to finish. Storage Tips for Honey Dijon Harvest Bowl Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. This keeps the flavors fresh and ready for quick meals. Freezer: For longer storage, freeze individual servings in airtight containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. Reheating: Gently reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water if necessary to prevent drying out any components. Vegetable Freshness: If possible, keep the roasted vegetables separate until ready to eat to maintain their crunch and vibrant appearance in your Honey Dijon Harvest Bowl. Honey Dijon Harvest Bowl Variations Feel free to get creative with this Honey Dijon Harvest Bowl and tailor it to your taste buds! Dairy-Free: Substitute feta cheese with avocado chunks or omit it completely for a creamy, dairy-free option. Dairy alternatives keep your dish lighter and just as satisfying! Vegetarian: Swap chicken with roasted chickpeas or marinated tofu for a hearty plant-based meal. This adds protein and keeps everyone at the table happy! Spicy Kick: Toss in a pinch of red pepper flakes or drizzle sriracha over the top for heat. It’s a delightful way to spice up your comforting bowl! Nuts & Seeds: Use walnuts or pecans instead of pumpkin seeds for added crunch and flavor. They bring a delightful nuttiness that pairs beautifully with the honey-dijon dressing. Grain Swap: Replace farro with quinoa or couscous for a lighter, gluten-free base. This little twist transforms your bowl while retaining that comforting essence. Extra Veggies: Add roasted Brussels sprouts or carrots for more seasonal flavor and nutrition. Each veggie enhances the autumn experience and adds color to your bowl! Consider trying these variations alongside dishes like Honey Garlic Chicken or a refreshing Hawaiian Chicken Bowl to broaden your culinary experience! Make Ahead Options These Honey Dijon Harvest Bowls are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can marinate the chicken up to 24 hours in advance for intensified flavor, ensuring it’s ready to cook on a busy weeknight. Additionally, roast the butternut squash and kale a day ahead, allowing them to cool before refrigerating; they’ll stay fresh for up to 3 days. When ready to serve, simply reheat the squash and kale in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for 5-10 minutes until warmed through, grill or bake the marinated chicken, and assemble the bowl with farro, fresh apple slices, feta, cranberries, and pumpkin seeds. You’ll have a wholesome, delicious meal in a snap! Expert Tips for the Honey Dijon Harvest Bowl Marinate for Flavor: Allow at least 2-4 hours for marinating the chicken to absorb the honey and Dijon flavors fully. It makes a world of difference! Roasting Precision: Space out the vegetables on the baking tray to ensure even roasting, preventing sogginess in your Honey Dijon Harvest Bowl. Crispy Kale Caution: Keep a close eye on the kale while roasting. It should be perfectly crisp, without turning charred, for that delightful crunch. Check Chicken Temperature: Always use a meat thermometer to ensure your chicken reaches 165°F for safe, tasty bites in your dish. Versatile Swap: Feel free to get creative with the ingredients! Substitute butternut squash with sweet potatoes or Brussels sprouts for a unique twist on your bowl. Storage Solutions: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge and reheat gently, preserving the flavors of your Honey Dijon Harvest Bowl. Honey Dijon Harvest Bowl Recipe FAQs How do I select ripe ingredients for my Honey Dijon Harvest Bowl? Absolutely! When choosing ingredients, look for chicken that has a fresh appearance with no discoloration. For vegetables, opt for firm butternut squash with a smooth skin and avoid any with dark spots. Honeycrisp apples should be crisp and free of bruises. The kale should be vibrant green without yellowing edges. What’s the best way to store leftovers from my Honey Dijon Harvest Bowl? Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To keep everything fresh, I suggest separating the roasted vegetables from the grains, as this helps maintain their texture. If you wish, reheat gently in a pan or microwave before serving. Can I freeze my Honey Dijon Harvest Bowl for later use? Very much! You can freeze individual servings of the Honey Dijon Harvest Bowl in airtight containers for up to 3 months. Just make sure to let the dish cool completely before sealing. When you’re ready to eat, simply thaw overnight in the fridge, and then reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of water to keep it moist. What should I do if my chicken is dry after cooking? If your chicken is dry, don’t worry—this happens to the best of us! Next time, try marinating the chicken for an extra hour or so, as it helps to lock in moisture. Also, using a meat thermometer to check for doneness can help prevent overcooking; the ideal internal temperature for chicken is 165°F (74°C). Additionally, serving it with some of the honey-dijon dressing can add flavor and moisture back in! Are there any dietary considerations for my Honey Dijon Harvest Bowl? Yes, definitely! This dish can be made gluten-free by swapping farro for quinoa or brown rice. If allergies are a concern, make sure to use dairy-free options for the feta cheese, such as a cashew cheese alternative. For anyone pet-related, be mindful not to share any leftover feta or dressings with pets, as these can be unhealthy or toxic to them. Can I customize the vegetables in my Honey Dijon Harvest Bowl? The more the merrier! Feel free to swap out butternut squash for Brussels sprouts or sweet potatoes for a unique twist. You can also add other seasonal vegetables like carrots or zucchini to embrace the fall flavors. Mix and match according to your personal tastes or whatever you have on hand! Hearty Honey Dijon Harvest Bowl: Fall's Flavorful Delight Discover the savory and wholesome Honey Dijon Harvest Bowl, a delightful medley celebrating fall's bounty with protein-rich ingredients. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 30 minutes minsCook Time 45 minutes minsMarinating Time 3 hours hrsTotal Time 4 hours hrs 15 minutes mins Servings: 4 bowlsCourse: DinnerCuisine: AmericanCalories: 550 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Chicken1 pound Chicken Tenderloins Main protein source; thighs add juiciness and flavor.2 tablespoons Honey Provides sweetness that pairs perfectly with the Dijon.2 tablespoons Dijon Mustard Adds a tangy depth, enhancing the overall flavor profile.2 tablespoons Olive Oil Used for marinating; avocado oil can be a great substitute.For the Grain1 cup Farro Offers a chewy texture and nutty flavor; quinoa or brown rice works for a gluten-free version.For the Vegetables3 cups Lacinato Kale Adds nutrition and a hearty texture; substitute with spinach for a softer flavor.2 cups Butternut Squash Brings natural sweetness; sweet potatoes can be used as an alternative.1/2 cup Pumpkin Seeds Add crunch and healthy fats; try sunflower seeds or almonds if preferred.For the Toppings1 large Honeycrisp Apple Introduces a crisp, sweet crunch; any sturdy apple variety can replace it.1/2 cup Dried Cranberries Offer a tart contrast; raisins or chopped dried apricots can work well too.1/3 cup Feta Cheese Adds a creamy saltiness; goat cheese is a delicious alternative.For Seasoning1 teaspoon Salt Essential for enhancing flavors; adjust to taste.1 teaspoon Pepper Essential for enhancing flavors; adjust to taste.Additional Seasonings Experiment with herbs like thyme or rosemary to elevate flavor depth. Equipment Mixing bowlBaking sheetOvenStovetopmeat thermometer Method Step-by-Step InstructionsMarinate the Chicken: Whisk together honey, Dijon mustard, and olive oil. Marinate chicken in a resealable bag or bowl for 2-4 hours.Cook the Farro: Prepare farro according to package instructions, simmering in salted water. Drain and set aside.Roast the Pumpkin Seeds: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Toss pumpkin seeds with olive oil, salt, and smoked paprika; roast for 10-12 minutes.Roast the Kale: Increase oven temperature to 400°F (200°C), toss kale with olive oil and salt, and roast for 8-10 minutes.Roast the Butternut Squash: Cube butternut squash, toss with olive oil, salt, and pepper; roast at 425°F (220°C) for about 20 minutes.Cook the Chicken: Grill chicken over medium heat for 4-6 minutes per side or bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes until cooked through.Assemble the Bowls: Layer farro, roasted kale, butternut squash, grilled chicken, apple slices, feta cheese, cranberries, and pumpkin seeds. Nutrition Serving: 1bowlCalories: 550kcalCarbohydrates: 60gProtein: 35gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 90mgSodium: 480mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 10gSugar: 15gVitamin A: 5000IUVitamin C: 30mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 3mg NotesAllow at least 2-4 hours for marinating the chicken for maximum flavor. Be cautious about roasting times to avoid burning ingredients. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
