Chicken Barley Soup

There isn’t anything more comforting than this Chicken Barley Soup recipe on a cold day. It’s hearty, warm, and easy to make. You’ll want to enjoy it all winter long! This soup is perfect for cozy family dinners, meal prep, or serving guests. Its rich flavors and satisfying ingredients make it a standout dish that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Hearty and Filling: This Chicken Barley Soup is loaded with nutritious ingredients that keep you full and satisfied.
• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and minimal prep work, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights.
• Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to customize the vegetables or use different proteins based on your preferences.
• Great for Meal Prep: Make a big batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week!
• Comforting Flavors: The combination of chicken, barley, and spices creates a warm, inviting flavor profile that’s hard to resist.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare your Chicken Barley Soup efficiently, having the right tools can make all the difference.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Measuring spoons
• Ladle

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: A sturdy pot allows for even cooking and sufficient space for all ingredients.
• Cutting board: A good cutting board provides a safe surface for chopping vegetables quickly.
• Knife: A sharp knife ensures precise cuts, making prep time quicker and easier.

Ingredients

Here are the ingredients you will need for this delightful Chicken Barley Soup:

For the Soup Base

• 2 tablespoons olive oil (29.6 ml)
• 1 medium yellow onion (chopped, about 3/4 cup or 39g)
• 2 cloves garlic (finely chopped, about 1 tablespoon or 8.43g)
• 2 medium carrots (chopped, about 3/4 cup or 39g)
• 3 ribs celery (chopped, about 3/4 cup or 39g)

For Protein and Grains

• 2 cups rotisserie chicken (291.4g)
• 3/4 cup barley (150g)

Seasonings

• 4 cups chicken stock (800ml)
• 2 teaspoons salt (4g)
• 1 teaspoon pepper (2g)
• 1 teaspoon onion powder (2g)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder (2g)
• 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning (5.5g)

How to Make Chicken Barley Soup

Step 1: Rinse the Barley

Rinse and drain your barley under cold water. Set it aside for later use.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics

In a large pot, add the olive oil over medium heat.
Once warmed, add the chopped onion and garlic.
Season with salt and pepper.
Sauté until the onion becomes translucent.

Step 3: Add Vegetables and Chicken

Add in the onion powder, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. Stir to combine.
Next, incorporate the carrots, celery, barley, and rotisserie chicken into the pot.
Stir everything together until well mixed.

Step 4: Pour in Stock

Add the chicken stock to the pot.
Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat.

Step 5: Simmer

Once boiling:
Reduce heat to low.
Taste test and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
Cover the pot and allow it to simmer for about 30 minutes until the barley has softened.

Step 6: Final Seasoning

After simmering:
Check if the barley is tender.
Do a final taste test; season with additional salt or pepper if necessary before serving.

Enjoy your delicious Chicken Barley Soup!

How to Serve Chicken Barley Soup

Chicken Barley Soup is versatile and comforting, perfect for any meal. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your soup experience.

Pair with Crusty Bread

• Enjoy slices of fresh baguette or sourdough bread. The crusty exterior and soft interior make it perfect for dipping into the soup.

Top with Fresh Herbs

• Garnish your soup with chopped parsley or dill. This adds a burst of freshness and a pop of color to your bowl.

Add a Squeeze of Lemon

• A dash of lemon juice brightens the flavors in Chicken Barley Soup. It offers a tangy contrast to the savory ingredients.

Serve with a Side Salad

• A light mixed greens salad can complement the richness of the soup. Choose a simple vinaigrette for added zing.

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How to Perfect Chicken Barley Soup

To achieve the best Chicken Barley Soup, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Quality Chicken Stock: Homemade stock enhances flavor significantly. If using store-bought, select low-sodium options for better control over seasoning.
• Soak the Barley: For even softer barley, soak it in water for 30 minutes before cooking. This reduces cooking time and improves texture.
• Adjust Seasoning Wisely: Taste your soup before serving. Add salt or pepper gradually to avoid overpowering flavors.
• Add Vegetables Variously: Feel free to include other vegetables like peas or bell peppers for added nutrition and color.

Best Side Dishes for Chicken Barley Soup

Pairing side dishes with your Chicken Barley Soup can elevate your meal. Here are some great options.

1. Garlic Bread – This buttery, garlicky delight is perfect for mopping up every last drop of soup.
2. Caesar Salad – Crisp romaine lettuce and creamy dressing provide a nice contrast to the warm soup.
3. Roasted Vegetables – Seasonal roasted veggies add color and nutrients, making them an excellent side choice.
4. Cheese Quesadillas – Melty cheese in tortillas offers a delightful crunch alongside your hearty soup.
5. Cornbread – Sweet cornbread complements the savory flavors of Chicken Barley Soup beautifully.
6. Stuffed Peppers – These can be filled with rice, meat, or beans to create a wholesome pairing that satisfies hunger.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Chicken Barley Soup can be simple, but some common mistakes can lead to less-than-perfect results. Here are a few to watch out for:

• Using uncooked barley: Always rinse and drain your barley before adding it to the soup. This helps remove excess starch, improving the texture of the soup.
• Overcooking vegetables: Adding vegetables too early can result in mushy pieces. Add them at the right time to keep them firm and flavorful.
• Not tasting as you go: Failing to taste your soup during cooking can lead to bland flavors. Check for seasoning adjustments throughout the cooking process.
• Ignoring ingredient quality: Using low-quality chicken stock or old ingredients can affect the final dish. Select fresh, high-quality ingredients for the best flavor.
• Skipping simmering time: Rushing the simmering process means the barley won’t soften properly. Allow enough time for all ingredients to meld together.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Chicken Barley Soup in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days in the fridge.
• Let the soup cool down before placing it in the refrigerator to prevent condensation.

Freezing Chicken Barley Soup

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag for up to 3 months.
• Leave space at the top of containers, as liquids expand when frozen.

Reheating Chicken Barley Soup

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in intervals until hot.
• Stovetop: Heat on medium-low in a pot, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Chicken Barley Soup that might help you further:

Can I use different types of chicken?

Yes! You can use leftover rotisserie chicken, cooked chicken breasts, or thighs according to your preference.

What is the best type of barley for this soup?

Pearl barley is commonly used for its quick cooking time and chewy texture that works well in soups.

How do I make Chicken Barley Soup gluten-free?

To make this soup gluten-free, substitute barley with quinoa or rice, adjusting cooking times accordingly.

Can I add other vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to customize your Chicken Barley Soup by adding vegetables like peas, green beans, or potatoes based on what you have on hand.

Final Thoughts

This Chicken Barley Soup is not only comforting but also versatile. You can customize it with various vegetables or spices based on your taste preferences. It’s perfect for chilly days when you crave something warm and satisfying. Give it a try this winter!