why make this recipe
Chicken Barley Soup is not just a meal; it’s a comforting embrace in a bowl. This soup is packed with nutrients and flavor, making it a wholesome choice for any day. It’s perfect for chilly evenings or a cozy family dinner, providing warmth and satisfaction for everyone at the table.
What makes this recipe stand out is its simplicity. With just a few ingredients and straightforward steps, you can have a hearty meal that everyone will love. Plus, it’s versatile and can be customized to suit your family’s tastes, making it a sure win for busy weeknights or leisurely weekends.
equipment needed for Chicken Barley Soup
To prepare Chicken Barley Soup, you will need some basic kitchen equipment. Having the right tools will make the cooking process easier and more enjoyable. Here’s what you need:
- Large pot
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Cutting board
- Knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Two forks for shredding chicken
These tools will help you effectively combine ingredients, cook smoothly, and serve your soup with ease.
What You Need to Make Chicken Barley Soup
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- 2 cups diced carrots
- 1 cup chopped celery
- 1 cup diced onion
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 1.5 pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs
- 2 quarts low sodium chicken broth
- 3/4 cup dry pearl barley
- 1/4 cup tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon dried parsley
- 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 Parmesan rind
- 1 cup corn
- 1 cup peas
How to Cook Chicken Barley Soup Step by Step
To begin making Chicken Barley Soup, start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Once the oil is warm, add in the diced carrots, chopped celery, diced onion, and minced garlic. Sauté these vegetables for about five minutes until they become tender and fragrant, stirring occasionally to ensure they don’t stick to the bottom of the pot.
Next, it’s time to add the star of this recipe. Place the boneless skinless chicken thighs into the pot. After that, gently pour in the low sodium chicken broth, followed by the dry pearl barley and the tomato paste. To enhance the flavor, sprinkle in the garlic powder, black pepper, dried parsley, dried rosemary, and salt. Toss in the bay leaves and add the Parmesan rind for extra depth of flavor. Stir everything together until well combined.
Cover the pot with a lid and turn the heat up to high. Allow the soup to come to a boil, which should take around ten minutes. Once it reaches a boil, reduce the heat to medium-low. Keep the pot covered and let it simmer for about twenty minutes, stirring occasionally. This will help the flavors meld together beautifully while the barley cooks.
After the twenty minutes are up, carefully remove the chicken thighs from the pot. Use two forks to shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces. Return the shredded chicken back into the pot, mixing it well with the soup. Now, stir in the corn and peas, which will add a lovely sweet pop of flavor and color. Before serving, don’t forget to remove the bay leaves and the Parmesan rind from the pot to avoid anyone biting into them.
how to make Chicken Barley Soup
Making Chicken Barley Soup is quite straightforward. Begin by chopping the vegetables and mincing the garlic. Gather all the ingredients to keep things organized. Once your prep work is done, the cooking process flows easily. Heat the oil, sauté the vegetables, and then add the chicken and broth.
The key is to let the soup simmer long enough for the flavors to develop. Don’t rush the process; the longer it simmers, the tastier it gets. Shredding the chicken is essential, as this will distribute its flavor throughout the soup. Finally, add in the peas and corn for a splash of moisture and texture. Enjoying a steaming bowl of this soup is a delightful reward for your efforts.
how to serve Chicken Barley Soup
When it’s time to serve Chicken Barley Soup, ladle generous portions into bowls. This soup is best enjoyed hot, so make sure it’s steaming when you serve it. If desired, you can add a sprinkle of fresh herbs on top for an added touch of freshness and flavor. Fresh parsley or a bit of rosemary can be lovely options.
Pair the soup with some hearty bread or crispy rolls for a complete meal. This creates a wonderful balance of flavors and textures with every bite. Everyone can scoop up the soup with the bread, making for a warm and welcoming dinner experience that is bound to satisfy.
what to serve with Chicken Barley Soup
When planning a meal around Chicken Barley Soup, consider serving it with simple sides to complement its flavors. A fresh garden salad can add a crunchy and refreshing contrast to the warm, hearty soup. Choose a light vinaigrette to keep the focus on the soup.
Another great option is crusty bread, such as a baguette or sourdough. This makes perfect dippers for enjoying with the soup. You might also consider pairing the soup with some cheese, such as aged cheddar or Parmesan, to sprinkle on top for added flavor.
how to store Chicken Barley Soup
If you have leftover Chicken Barley Soup, it’s easy to store. Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator where it will keep well for about three to four days. Just be sure to reheat it thoroughly before enjoying it again.
For longer storage, you can freeze the soup. Portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some space for expansion. Frozen soup will last for about three months. To enjoy, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove until heated through.
tips to make Chicken Barley Soup
To enhance your Chicken Barley Soup, consider a few helpful tips. First, using homemade chicken broth can elevate the flavor significantly. If you have the time, making broth from scratch will give you a depth that store-bought options may lack.
Second, feel free to adjust the vegetables according to what you have on hand. Zucchini, bell peppers, or spinach can all be great additions. Just keep in mind their cooking times, as you’ll want to add them at the right moment.
Another tip is to taste and adjust the seasoning before serving. Everyone has different preferences for salt and pepper, so give it a few shakes to ensure it suits your family’s taste buds.
variation
If you want to modify your Chicken Barley Soup, consider trying some variations. One option is to add spices like cumin or paprika for a bit of warmth and kick. This gives the soup a new twist that adds complexity to its flavor.
You could also switch out the chicken for turkey or even go vegetarian by omitting meat altogether. In this case, use vegetable broth and include more legumes, such as chickpeas or lentils, to bring in protein and heartiness.
Another fun variation is to cater it to a specific cuisine. Adding a splash of soy sauce and some green onions can give it an Asian-inspired twist. Small changes can make a big difference in how this comforting soup is enjoyed.
best time to make Chicken Barley Soup
Chicken Barley Soup is perfect year-round, but it shines particularly during the colder months. Fall and winter are ideal times to warm your kitchen with the delightful aroma of simmering broth and vegetables. It’s the ultimate comfort food when the weather outside is chilly.
However, this soup also makes a great option for meal prep. If you want a nutritious meal ready in advance, making a large batch on a Sunday can set you up for the week. Its hearty nature makes it perfect for lunch or dinner, any time of the year.
common mistakes to avoid
When preparing Chicken Barley Soup, avoid a few common mistakes to ensure success. One frequent error is not letting the soup simmer long enough. If you rush the cooking process, the flavors will not meld as beautifully.
Another pitfall is not seasoning properly. Taste as you cook, and adjust salt and pepper according to your preference. You want to create a flavor that pops and isn’t bland.
Lastly, be mindful of cooking times, especially for the barley. Overcooking can cause it to become mushy, while undercooking means it won’t have the right texture. Keep an eye on it and adjust as needed.
nutritional notes
Chicken Barley Soup offers a well-rounded mix of nutrients. The chicken provides protein and essential vitamins, while the vegetables contribute fiber and important minerals. Barley adds whole grains to your meal, supporting digestion and heart health.
Additionally, using low sodium chicken broth helps to keep the soup healthier, making it appropriate for various dietary preferences. Adding peas and corn increases your intake of vitamins while offering natural sweetness. Enjoying this soup can be a deliciously nutritious choice for any meal.
FAQs
Can I use other grains instead of barley?
Yes, you can substitute barley with other grains like farro, quinoa, or even rice. Just be sure to adjust cooking times as needed.
Is Chicken Barley Soup gluten-free?
Regular barley is not gluten-free. However, you can use gluten-free grains as a substitute while ensuring that all other ingredients are also gluten-free.
Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! You can follow the same method but let it cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. Just add the corn and peas in the last 30 minutes of cooking.
conclusion
In conclusion, Chicken Barley Soup is a delightful dish that is both nourishing and comforting. With its uncomplicated ingredients and easy preparation, it’s a wonderful choice for anyone, from busy families to novice cooks. The flexibility of this recipe allows everyone to make it their own, customizing it to fit different tastes and dietary preferences.
This soup not only provides warmth on cold days but also serves as a wholesome meal any time of the year. Whether you enjoy it with crusty bread or a side salad, you’re in for a treat. So gather your ingredients, unleash your inner chef, and enjoy a bowl of delicious Chicken Barley Soup today.
