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. Perfect for family dinners or cozy evenings, you’ll want to enjoy it all winter long!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Hearty and Filling: This Chicken Barley Soup is not just delicious; it’s also very satisfying thanks to the combination of chicken and barley.
• Quick and Easy: With just a few simple steps, you can prepare this soup in about 40 minutes, making it a perfect weeknight meal.
• Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to customize the vegetables or use leftover chicken for added convenience.
• Rich Flavor: The blend of seasonings enhances the natural taste of the chicken and vegetables, creating a savory experience in every bite.
• Nutritious: Packed with fiber from the barley and vitamins from the veggies, this soup is a healthy choice for any meal.

Tools and Preparation

To make this Chicken Barley Soup efficiently, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools that can help streamline your cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for cooking the entire batch of soup evenly without splattering.
• Chopping board: Provides a stable surface for cutting vegetables safely.
• Knife: A sharp knife makes chopping quick and efficient.

Ingredients

Ingredients:
– 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)
– 2 cups rotisserie chicken (291.4g)
– 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)
– 3/4 cup barley (150g)

How to Make Chicken Barley Soup

Step 1: Prepare the Barley

Rinse and drain your barley thoroughly under cold water. Set it aside to ensure it’s clean before cooking.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

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 Seasonings and Vegetables

Incorporate the onion powder, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning into the pot. Stir well to combine. Then add in the carrots, celery, barley, and rotisserie chicken. Mix everything together.

Step 4: Boil the Soup

Pour in the chicken stock and bring the mixture to a boil over high heat.

Step 5: Simmer Until Ready

Once boiling, reduce the heat to low. Taste your soup at this point; adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Cover it and let it simmer for about 30 minutes or until the barley is tender.

Step 6: Final Adjustments

After cooking, do a final taste test of your Chicken Barley Soup. Adjust seasoning if necessary before serving hot!

How to Serve Chicken Barley Soup

Serving Chicken Barley Soup is an enjoyable experience that can be enhanced with the right accompaniments. Whether you’re enjoying it on a chilly evening or sharing it with friends, there are many delightful ways to serve this comforting dish.

With Fresh Herbs

• Chopped Parsley: Sprinkle fresh parsley on top for a burst of color and flavor.
• Thyme Sprigs: Add whole thyme sprigs for an aromatic touch.

With Crusty Bread

• Sourdough Baguette: Serve slices of sourdough baguette for dipping into the soup.
• Garlic Bread: Pair with warm garlic bread for a deliciously buttery contrast.

With Cheese

• Grated Parmesan: Top each bowl with freshly grated Parmesan cheese for added richness.
• Cheddar Cheese: A sprinkle of sharp cheddar can add a lovely creamy factor.

With Salad

• Caesar Salad: Offer a classic Caesar salad on the side to balance the hearty soup.
• Mixed Greens Salad: A light mixed greens salad can provide a refreshing crunch.

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How to Perfect Chicken Barley Soup

Perfecting your Chicken Barley Soup takes just a few simple tweaks. Follow these tips to elevate your soup.

• Use Quality Stock: Choose low-sodium chicken stock for better flavor control and health benefits.
• Fresh Ingredients Matter: Opt for fresh vegetables; they enhance taste and nutrition.
• Adjust Seasoning Gradually: Taste and adjust seasonings towards the end of cooking for optimal flavor balance.
• Don’t Overcook the Barley: Keep an eye on the barley to ensure it’s tender but not mushy.
• Consider Adding Greens: Stir in some spinach or kale during the last few minutes for added nutrients.
• Make Ahead and Store: This soup tastes even better the next day, so consider making it in advance.

Best Side Dishes for Chicken Barley Soup

Pairing side dishes with Chicken Barley Soup can create a wholesome meal. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic complement the soup beautifully.
2. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crispy roasted Brussels sprouts add a crunchy texture and earthy flavor.
3. Caprese Salad: The freshness of tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil brings brightness to your meal.
4. Cornbread Muffins: Sweet cornbread muffins are perfect for soaking up every drop of that hearty soup.
5. Stuffed Peppers: Colorful stuffed peppers filled with rice and beans make a filling side dish.
6. Vegetable Stir-Fry: A quick vegetable stir-fry offers vibrant flavors and crunch alongside your soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Chicken Barley Soup, even small errors can lead to disappointing results. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for:

• Skipping the sauté step: Skipping the sautéing of onions and garlic can lead to a bland soup. Always take time to develop flavors by cooking these ingredients until they’re translucent.
• Ignoring seasoning adjustments: Not tasting your soup before serving may result in an unseasoned dish. Always taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed during cooking.
• Overcooking the barley: Cooking barley for too long can make it mushy. Follow the cooking time closely and check for doneness towards the end of simmering.
• Using low-quality stock: Using poor-quality chicken stock will affect the overall flavor of your soup. Opt for homemade or a good-quality store-bought option.
• Not using enough vegetables: Reducing the amount of vegetables can make your soup less nutritious and tasty. Stick to the recommended amounts for best results.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep it in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing Chicken Barley Soup

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating Chicken Barley Soup

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in a covered dish until warmed through, about 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl, covered, stirring occasionally until hot, about 3-5 minutes.
• Stovetop: Warm over medium heat in a pot, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about Chicken Barley Soup that may help you perfect your recipe.

What type of barley is best for Chicken Barley Soup?

Pearl barley is commonly used for soups due to its quick cooking time and chewy texture, making it ideal for this recipe.

Can I use frozen chicken in Chicken Barley Soup?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken. Just ensure it’s fully cooked before adding it to the soup.

How can I customize my Chicken Barley Soup?

Feel free to add other vegetables like peas or spinach, or spices such as paprika or cayenne pepper for extra flavor.

Are there any substitutes for chicken stock?

Vegetable broth or homemade stock can be used as alternatives if you prefer a lighter flavor profile.

Can I make Chicken Barley Soup ahead of time?

Absolutely! This soup often tastes better the next day as flavors meld together.

Final Thoughts

This Chicken Barley Soup is not only comforting but also versatile. You can easily customize it with your favorite veggies or spices. Perfect for cold days, it’s sure to become a staple in your winter meal rotation. Give it a try, and enjoy the warm flavors!