There’s just something so comforting about a hearty chicken and barley stew, isn’t there? It’s like a warm hug in a bowl! This dish is perfect for chilly evenings when you want to wrap your hands around something nourishing and flavorful. With juicy chicken thighs, tender barley, and a medley of veggies, every spoonful is packed with goodness. Trust me, once you take that first bite, you’ll feel all your worries melt away. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to whip up, making it a go-to for busy weeknights or cozy weekends. You’ll love how the flavors meld together as it simmers on the stovetop, creating a delicious aroma that fills your kitchen. So grab your apron, and let’s dive into this delightful chicken and barley stew that’s sure to become a family favorite!
Ingredients List
Gathering the right ingredients is key to making this hearty chicken and barley stew come to life. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 lb chicken thighs, boneless and skinless
- 1 cup barley
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 carrots, diced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 stalks celery, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp thyme
- 1 tsp rosemary
- Salt and pepper to taste
Make sure to have everything prepped and ready to go before you start cooking. It’ll make the process so much smoother and more enjoyable!
How to Prepare Chicken and Barley Stew
Now that you’ve got your ingredients ready, let’s get started on making this delicious chicken and barley stew! I promise you, it’s simpler than it looks. Just follow these steps, and you’ll have a hearty meal simmering away in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions
- First things first, heat a splash of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. You want it nice and warm to start cooking those veggies.
- Add the chopped onions, diced carrots, and celery to the pot. Sauté them for about 5 minutes until they’re softened and fragrant. Wow, the smells are already amazing!
- Next, stir in the minced garlic, thyme, and rosemary. Cook everything together for just 1 minute more—this will really bring out those lovely flavors.
- Now, let’s add the star of the show! Toss in the chicken thighs and brown them on all sides. This should take about 5-7 minutes. You want them to get a nice golden color.
- Once the chicken is browned, pour in the chicken broth and add the barley. Give it a good stir to combine everything.
- Bring the pot to a gentle boil. Once it’s bubbling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for 30 minutes. This is when all those flavors meld together beautifully.
- After 30 minutes, remove the lid and season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir it well, and you’re almost there!
- Finally, serve your chicken and barley stew hot, ladling it into bowls. Get ready for a comforting meal that’s bound to warm your soul!
And there you have it! Simple, straightforward, and totally satisfying. Enjoy every spoonful of this nourishing stew!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This chicken and barley stew is not just another meal; it’s a wholesome experience that you’ll want to revisit again and again. Here’s why I adore this recipe:
- Hearty and Filling: Each bowl is packed with protein and fiber, making it a satisfying meal that keeps you full for hours.
- Nourishing Ingredients: With chicken, barley, and a variety of veggies, you’re getting a nutritious boost in every spoonful.
- Easy to Make: This stew comes together with minimal fuss. Just chop, sauté, and let it simmer—so simple!
- One-Pot Wonder: Less cleanup is always a win! Everything cooks in one pot, which means more time enjoying your meal and less time scrubbing dishes.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: It’s great for making ahead of time, so you can have delicious, homemade comfort food ready to go during busy days.
- Customizable: Feel free to throw in any extra veggies you have on hand or swap out the chicken for another protein. It’s versatile!
Trust me, once you try this chicken and barley stew, you’ll understand why it’s a go-to in my kitchen. It’s all about those cozy flavors and the joy of sharing a hearty meal with loved ones!
Nutritional Information
Understanding the nutritional value of your meals is super important, especially when you’re looking for something hearty yet healthy like this chicken and barley stew. Here’s a rough estimate of what you can expect per serving:
- Calories: 350
- Protein: 25g
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 6g
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Cholesterol: 80mg
Keep in mind that these values are estimates based on the specific ingredients used in this recipe. Depending on your choice of chicken or any extra veggies you might add, the numbers could vary a bit. But don’t worry, you’re still getting a wholesome, nourishing dish that feels good to eat!
Tips for Success
Making the perfect chicken and barley stew is all about a few key techniques and tips that I’ve learned along the way. Trust me, these little nuggets of wisdom can help you avoid common pitfalls and elevate your stew to the next level!
- Don’t Rush the Sauté: Take your time when sautéing the onions, carrots, and celery. Let them soften and develop flavor—it’s worth the extra minute or two!
- Brown the Chicken Well: Make sure to brown the chicken thighs nicely. This step enhances the flavor of the stew and gives it a richer, deeper taste.
- Use Quality Broth: Since the broth is a major component of the stew, opt for a good-quality chicken broth. Homemade is best, but if you’re using store-bought, look for low-sodium options for better control over seasoning.
- Monitor the Barley: Keep an eye on the barley as it cooks. You want it tender but not mushy, so check it around the 25-minute mark to ensure it’s just right.
- Season Gradually: Start with a little salt and pepper, then taste as you go. You can always add more, but it’s hard to fix an overly salty dish!
- Let It Rest: If you can, let the stew sit for a few minutes after it’s done cooking. This helps the flavors meld even more, and it’s perfect for letting it cool slightly before serving.
By keeping these tips in mind, you’ll be well on your way to creating a chicken and barley stew that’s not only delicious but also full of heart and soul. Happy cooking!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Once you’ve savored your delightful chicken and barley stew, you might find yourself with some leftovers—lucky you! This stew stores wonderfully, so let me share how to keep it fresh and tasty for your next meal.
To store, simply let the stew cool to room temperature, then transfer it into an airtight container. You can keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just be sure to label it, so you know exactly what’s waiting for you when hunger strikes!
If you want to save it for a longer period, you can freeze the chicken and barley stew. Pour it into a freezer-safe container or a resealable plastic bag, leaving a little space at the top for expansion. It’ll stay good in the freezer for about 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, just thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.
For reheating, you can simply warm it up on the stovetop over medium heat. Stir occasionally to ensure it heats evenly and doesn’t stick to the bottom of the pot. If it seems a bit thick after being in the fridge or freezer, don’t hesitate to add a splash of chicken broth or water to get it back to that lovely stew consistency.
You can also microwave it—just make sure to cover your bowl to avoid splatters! Heat in short intervals, stirring in between, until it’s piping hot. Now, you’re ready to dive into that comforting bowl of stew once again!
FAQ Section
I’ve gathered some common questions about chicken and barley stew that I hope will help you out as you create this delicious dish! Let’s dive in:
Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?
Absolutely! While I love the richness of chicken thighs, you can definitely swap in boneless, skinless chicken breasts. Just keep in mind that they may cook a bit faster, so check for doneness a few minutes earlier.
What can I substitute for barley?
If you’re not a fan of barley or need a gluten-free option, you can use quinoa or farro instead. They’ll give the stew a different texture but still add that wholesome, hearty feel.
How long does it take to cook the stew?
The total cooking time for this chicken and barley stew is about 45 minutes, which includes 15 minutes of prep and 30 minutes of simmering. It’s a great option for a weeknight meal!
What should I serve with this stew?
This stew is a meal on its own, but I love serving it with a crusty piece of bread or a side salad for some freshness. You can also pair it with some roasted vegetables for a complete comfort food experience.
Can I make this stew in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can! Just brown the chicken and sauté the veggies first, then transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. It’s an easy way to have dinner ready when you come home!
For more delicious recipes, check out Creamy Chicken Pasta or White Chicken Chili.
Print
Chicken and Barley Stew: 7 Steps to Comforting Bliss
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
A hearty chicken and barley stew full of flavor.
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken thighs, boneless and skinless
- 1 cup barley
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 carrots, diced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 stalks celery, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp thyme
- 1 tsp rosemary
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large pot, heat oil over medium heat.
- Add onions, carrots, and celery. Cook until softened.
- Stir in garlic, thyme, and rosemary. Cook for 1 minute.
- Add chicken thighs and brown on all sides.
- Pour in chicken broth and add barley.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes.
- Season with salt and pepper.
- Serve hot.
Notes
- This stew can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- It can also be frozen for up to 3 months.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
Keywords: chicken and barley stew
