As the temperatures drop and the days grow shorter, there’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of soup to bring comfort to your table. This Cozy Chicken Barley Soup is just the ticket for chilly evenings, combining tender chicken, hearty barley, and a medley of vegetables in a rich, flavorful broth. It’s a simple yet satisfying dish that warms you from the inside out, making it a favorite for family dinners or quiet nights by the fire. Gather your ingredients and prepare to enjoy the ultimate in cozy comfort food.
Steps
- Begin by heating a large heavy pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Pour in the oil and add the chopped carrots, onion, celery, and garlic, stirring to combine.
- Place the chicken, broth, parsley, and bay leaves into the pot and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for about 30 minutes until the chicken and vegetables are tender.
- Remove the chicken from the pot and shred or cut the meat, discarding the bones. Return the shredded chicken to the pot, add the barley, and season with salt and freshly ground pepper to taste.
- Continue simmering the soup for an additional 30 minutes, or until the barley is fully cooked. Remove and discard the bay leaves before serving the soup.
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon oil
- 2 carrots, diced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 chicken breasts, bone-in
- 8 cups chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons chopped parsley
- 2 bay leaves
- 2/3 cup pearl barley
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Nutritional Values
Calories: 1572 kcal | Carbohydrates: 144 g | Protein: 186 g | Fat: 24 g | Cholesterol: 498 mg | Sodium: 4464 mg | Fiber: 30 g | Sugar: 12 g
FAQ
- What makes barley a healthy addition to soup?
- Barley adds a chewy texture similar to pasta and is a nutritious alternative to noodles. It’s high in fiber, aiding digestion and weight management, and contains proteins, B vitamins, phosphorus, and selenium.
- Is it necessary to pre-cook barley before adding it to the soup?
- No, pre-cooking barley isn’t required. It will cook alongside the other ingredients in the soup.
- Can this chicken barley soup be prepared in advance?
- Yes, this soup is perfect for meal prepping. It improves in flavor after a day, so making it ahead and enjoying leftovers throughout the week is ideal. It can also be frozen for later use.
- How should I freeze and reheat chicken barley soup?
- Freeze the soup in individual or large containers for up to three months. To reheat, thaw it in the fridge for a day or two, then warm it in the microwave or on the stove.
- What can I use if I don’t have barley?
- If barley isn’t available, you can substitute it with farro or quinoa for a gluten-free option. Pasta can also be used, but you’ll need to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Tips
- Use Chicken on the Bone: Opt for chicken on the bone to enhance the flavor of your soup, as it releases more taste during cooking.
- No Need to Pre-Cook Barley: Save time and effort by adding pearl barley directly into the soup as it simmers, eliminating the need for pre-cooking.
- Meal Prep and Storage: Make this soup ahead of time to enjoy throughout the week. It can be stored in the freezer for up to three months, allowing you to savor a warm bowl whenever needed.
- Ingredient Alternatives: If barley isn’t available, consider using farro, quinoa for a gluten-free option, or pasta, adjusting cooking times as necessary.
Equipment
- Dutch Oven or Large Heavy Pot
- Bay Leaves (if considered a specialty item in your area)
