Chicken barley soup is more than just a meal; it’s an experience that welcomes a variety of accompaniments. A chunky slice of whole-grain bread, warm from the oven, is perfect for dipping. You could also serve a simple side salad, perhaps dressed lightly with olive oil and vinegar, for a refreshing contrast.
For those with a sweet tooth, a platter of fresh fruit can add a delightful note. And let’s not forget some grated cheese on top of the soup; it melts beautifully into the broth. You might even consider pairing it with a glass of robust red wine. Who says soup can’t be fancy?
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A Hearty Welcome: The Basics of Chicken Barley Soup
Allow me to take you on a flavorful journey into the realm of chicken barley soup. Imagine a chilly evening where the wind rustles the tree branches. You step into a cozy kitchen, filled with the aromas of simmering chicken and earthy grains. That’s the magic of this dish. It’s comforting, nourishing, and oh-so-simple to whip up.
So, what exactly is chicken barley soup? In a nutshell, it’s a beautiful blend of tender chicken, hearty barley, fresh vegetables, and a delightful broth that warms the soul. This dish serves not just as a meal, but as a family tradition for many, filling homes with laughter and love.
What is Chicken Barley Soup?
Chicken barley soup is a comforting dish that has rich history, tracing back to Eastern European cuisine. At its core, it combines chicken (often bone-in for flavor), pearl barley, and a medley of vegetables.
The barley adds a nutty texture that contrasts nicely with the tender chicken and soft vegetables. Typically, you’d find carrots, celery, and onions in the mix, simmered in a savory broth. Every spoonful feels like a warm embrace on a chilly day.
How Does It Taste?
Let me tell you, the taste is nothing short of comforting. The broth is savory and rich, thanks to the chicken stock and the natural flavors of the chicken. Pearl barley brings an earthiness, while the vegetables add brightness and sweetness. Each bite is a balance of flavors and textures, creating a dish that both satiates hunger and feeds the soul.
Why You’ll Love This?
Chicken barley soup is incredibly versatile. You can dress it up or keep it simple according to your mood. It’s also packed with nutrients. The chicken is a lean protein, the vegetables contribute vitamins and minerals, and barley is rich in fiber. This soup can be a meal on its own, but it also works well as a side dish. Plus, it’s perfect for meal prep! Make a big batch, and you’ll have a hearty lunch ready for the week.
Ingredients
Here are the ingredients you’ll need for a delightful pot of chicken barley soup. Gather these simple items, and let’s get cooking:
1 teaspoon extra-virgin olive oil
1 cup diced carrots
1 cup yellow onions, chopped
½ cup celery, finely chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
1-1/2 lbs skin-on bone-in chicken breast (yields about 14 oz cooked)
7 cups low-sodium chicken stock
2 dried bay leaves
1 teaspoon dried thyme
2/3 cup pearl barley, uncooked
¼ cup fresh flat-leaf parsley, chopped
Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Step-by-Step Directions
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
Before you dive into cooking, prep all your ingredients. Chop the carrots, onions, and celery into small pieces. Mince the garlic and chop the parsley finely. This will make the cooking process smooth and enjoyable.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Toss in the diced carrots, onions, and celery. Sauté the vegetables for about 5-7 minutes, until they are softened and the onions are translucent. Stir occasionally to prevent burning. The aroma will start to lift your spirits. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Step 3: Add the Chicken
Next, add in the skin-on, bone-in chicken breast. Pour in the chicken stock, ensuring the chicken is fully submerged. Toss in the bay leaves and dried thyme, then bring the mixture to a simmer. This step is crucial; it allows the flavors to meld and the chicken to cook through, typically for about 20-25 minutes.
Step 4: Create the Barley Base
Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the pot and set it aside to cool. Stir the uncooked pearl barley into the broth and let it cook for about 30-40 minutes until it’s tender and has absorbed some of the flavors.
Step 5: Shred the Chicken
While the barley is cooking, shred the chicken meat from the bones. Discard the skin and bones. Break the chicken into bite-sized pieces to reintroduce into the soup.
Step 6: Combine and Serve
After the barley is tender, return the shredded chicken to the pot. Stir in the chopped parsley and season with freshly ground black pepper to taste. Allow it to simmer for another few minutes before serving. Your kitchen will be filled with a warm and inviting aroma, promising a delicious meal ahead.
Tips for Making Chicken Barley Soup
Use Quality Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and good-quality chicken stock will make a noticeable difference in flavor.
Don’t Rush the Cooking: Allowing the soup to simmer lets the flavors deepen. Patience is key here.
Store Leftovers Properly: If you make a large batch, allow it to cool before storing. Use airtight containers for freshness.
Adjust to Your Taste: Feel free to add more spices or vegetables based on your preferences. Variety can bring new life to the dish!
Garnish: A sprinkle of fresh parsley or a squeeze of lemon just before serving can brighten the flavors.
Nutrition Information
Per serving (1 cup):
Calories: 245
Protein: 22g
Carbohydrates: 30g
Dietary Fiber: 6g
Total Fat: 6g
Saturated Fat: 1.5g
Sodium: 450mg
How Do You Store Chicken Barley Soup?
Storing chicken barley soup is quite straightforward. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze individual portions in freezer-safe containers. This way, you can enjoy a hearty meal even on busy days. Just thaw and reheat it on the stove or microwave, and you’re ready to indulge again.
What Other Substitutes Can You Use in Chicken Barley Soup?
Quinoa: This gluten-free grain can replace barley, offering a similar texture with a slight nutty flavor.
Brown Rice: A popular alternative that cooks a bit faster than barley and is packed with fiber.
Turkey: If chicken isn’t on hand, turkey breast can be a lean substitute, adding a unique flavor.
Vegetable Stock: For a vegetarian version, swap chicken stock with vegetable stock. Just be mindful of seasoning.
Chickpeas: For variation, you could add cooked chickpeas. They provide protein while keeping it vegetarian.
Chicken Barley Soup
Equipment
- Pot, Bowls
Ingredients
- 1 teaspoon extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 cup diced carrots
- 1 cup yellow onions chopped
- ½ cup celery finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves minced
- 1-1/2 lbs skin-on bone-in chicken breast yields about 14 oz cooked
- 7 cups low-sodium chicken stock
- 2 dried bay leaves
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 2/3 cup pearl barley uncooked
- ¼ cup fresh flat-leaf parsley chopped
- Freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
- Before you dive into cooking, prep all your ingredients. Chop the carrots, onions, and celery into small pieces. Mince the garlic and chop the parsley finely. This will make the cooking process smooth and enjoyable.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
- In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Toss in the diced carrots, onions, and celery. Sauté the vegetables for about 5-7 minutes, until they are softened and the onions are translucent. Stir occasionally to prevent burning. The aroma will start to lift your spirits. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Step 3: Add the Chicken
- Next, add in the skin-on, bone-in chicken breast. Pour in the chicken stock, ensuring the chicken is fully submerged. Toss in the bay leaves and dried thyme, then bring the mixture to a simmer. This step is crucial; it allows the flavors to meld and the chicken to cook through, typically for about 20-25 minutes.
Step 4: Create the Barley Base
- Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the pot and set it aside to cool. Stir the uncooked pearl barley into the broth and let it cook for about 30-40 minutes until it’s tender and has absorbed some of the flavors.
Step 5: Shred the Chicken
- While the barley is cooking, shred the chicken meat from the bones. Discard the skin and bones. Break the chicken into bite-sized pieces to reintroduce into the soup.
Step 6: Combine and Serve
- After the barley is tender, return the shredded chicken to the pot. Stir in the chopped parsley and season with freshly ground black pepper to taste. Allow it to simmer for another few minutes before serving. Your kitchen will be filled with a warm and inviting aroma, promising a delicious meal ahead.
Notes
Don’t Rush the Cooking: Allowing the soup to simmer lets the flavors deepen. Patience is key here.
Store Leftovers Properly: If you make a large batch, allow it to cool before storing. Use airtight containers for freshness.
Adjust to Your Taste: Feel free to add more spices or vegetables based on your preferences. Variety can bring new life to the dish!
Garnish: A sprinkle of fresh parsley or a squeeze of lemon just before serving can brighten the flavors.
Nutrition
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! Simply sauté the vegetables in a pan first, then transfer everything into your slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
2. Is this soup gluten-free?
Traditional recipes aren’t gluten-free due to barley. However, you can easily make it gluten-free by substituting barley with quinoa, brown rice, or another gluten-free grain.
3. Can I use frozen vegetables instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen vegetables can work well! Just add them toward the end of cooking to prevent them from becoming mushy.
4. What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
Reheat gently in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of broth if necessary. This maintains the texture of the grains.
5. Can I add more spices?
Certainly! Feel free to experiment with herbs like rosemary or spices like paprika for different flavor profiles.
6. How can I make this a one-pot meal?
This recipe is a one-pot wonder! All you need is your soup pot. Just ensure to do your chopping ahead of time and follow the steps provided, and nothing goes to waste.
Conclusion
Chicken barley soup is more than just a recipe; it’s a vessel of warmth and nourishment shared between family and friends. The blend of tender chicken, hearty barley, and vibrant vegetables serves as a perfect canvas for creativity in the kitchen.
Whether you’re under the weather or looking to fill bellies at a family dinner, this soup checks all the boxes. So, roll up your sleeves and give it a try. I promise it will become a staple in your household as it has in mine. Enjoy the process, savor the flavors, and don’t forget to share it with those you love. Now, grab your pot and let the cooking begin!
