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Chicken Barley Soup

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This Chicken Barley Soup is a nourishing and hearty one-pot meal, made with tender chicken, chewy pearl barley, and a mix of savory vegetables simmered in a flavorful broth. Perfect for chilly nights or meal prep, this comforting soup is protein-packed, fiber-rich, and full of cozy flavor. It’s a wholesome twist on classic chicken soup that tastes even better the next day.

Ingredients

  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 carrots, sliced
  • 2 celery stalks, chopped
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
  • 3/4 cup pearl barley
  • 8 cups chicken broth
  • 2 bay leaves
  • 1 tsp fresh thyme or 1/2 tsp dried thyme
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice (optional, for brightness)

Instructions

  1. Heat olive oil in a large soup pot over medium heat. Sauté onion, carrots, and celery until softened.
  2. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
  3. Stir in chicken, pearl barley, broth, bay leaves, thyme, salt, and pepper.
  4. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 40–50 minutes, or until barley is tender and chicken is cooked through.
  5. Remove chicken, shred with two forks, and return to the pot.
  6. Adjust seasoning. Stir in chopped parsley and a splash of lemon juice, if using.
  7. Serve warm.

Notes

  • Use rotisserie chicken to save time—add it in the final 10 minutes.
  • For a vegetarian version, use chickpeas and vegetable broth instead of chicken.
  • Add kale, spinach, or mushrooms for extra nutrition.
  • Stir in pesto or grated Parmesan for added flavor.
  • Barley continues to absorb liquid—add extra broth when reheating leftovers.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://cookedbymaya.com/chicken-barley-soup/