Chicken Barley Soup: 7 Comforting Benefits You’ll Love

September 14, 2025

By:

Julia marin

There’s something incredibly comforting about a warm bowl of chicken barley soup, isn’t there? I swear, every time I make it, the aroma fills my kitchen and wraps me in the coziest hug. This hearty dish is not only bursting with flavor but also packed with nutrition, making it a go-to for chilly evenings or when I need a little pick-me-up. I remember the first time I tried this recipe; I was looking for something to warm me up after a long day, and boy, did it deliver! The tender chicken, the chewy barley, and the vibrant veggies all come together in a way that just feels like home. Plus, it’s so easy to whip up, you’ll find yourself reaching for this chicken barley soup recipe time and time again. Trust me, it’s a bowlful of comfort that you won’t want to miss!

chicken barley soup - detail 1

Ingredients List

Here’s everything you’ll need to create this delicious chicken barley soup. I always like to have my ingredients prepped and ready to go, so it’s a smooth cooking experience. Let’s dive in!

1 lb diced chicken breast
1 cup barley
1 chopped onion
2 sliced carrots
2 sliced celery stalks
4 cups chicken broth
1 cup water
2 cloves minced garlic
1 tsp thyme
1 bay leaf
Salt and pepper to taste

Make sure to grab fresh ingredients for the best flavor! You’ll really appreciate the depth they bring to the soup. Now, let’s get cooking!

How to Prepare Chicken Barley Soup

Alright, let’s get down to the nitty-gritty of making this fabulous chicken barley soup! I promise, it’s easier than you think. Just follow these steps, and you’ll have a pot of deliciousness bubbling away in no time!

Step-by-Step Instructions

First things first, grab a large pot and heat it over medium heat. Add a splash of olive oil if you’d like, but I often find that the moisture from the veggies is enough to get things started.
Next, toss in your chopped onion, sliced carrots, and celery. Sauté these beauties for about 5-7 minutes until they’re softened and the onion is translucent. Oh, the smell is heavenly!
Now, it’s time to add the minced garlic. Cook it for another minute, just until it’s fragrant. Be careful not to let it burn; garlic can turn bitter if you overdo it!
Then, add in the diced chicken breast. Cook it for about 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it’s no longer pink. You want that chicken to be perfectly cooked before we move on.
Here comes the fun part! Stir in the barley, broth, water, thyme, and the bay leaf. Make sure everything is well combined. Bring it all to a hearty boil!
Once it’s bubbling away, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 45 minutes. This is when the flavors really meld together, and the barley gets nice and tender. Just give it a stir every now and then to keep it from sticking to the bottom of the pot.
After 45 minutes, check the barley for doneness. It should be chewy but tender. If it needs more time, just let it simmer a little longer. Taste the soup and season it with salt and pepper to your liking.
Finally, don’t forget to fish out the bay leaf before serving! It’s a little reminder that we’re done cooking. Ladle the soup into bowls, and enjoy that warm, comforting goodness!

And there you have it! A simple, straightforward process to create a delightful chicken barley soup that’ll warm your heart and fill your belly. I can’t wait for you to try it!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Hearty and Filling: This chicken barley soup is a complete meal in a bowl! The combination of chicken and barley makes it super satisfying, perfect for those chilly nights.
Nutritious: Packed with protein from the chicken and fiber from the barley, this soup is not only delicious but also a great way to nourish your body.
Easy to Make: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up this soup in no time. It’s perfect for both beginners and seasoned cooks alike!
Meal Prep Friendly: Make a big batch and store leftovers for quick lunches or dinners during the week. You’ll always have a comforting meal at the ready!
Customizable: Feel free to throw in your favorite veggies or spices! This recipe is versatile, so you can make it your own every time.
Family Approved: Kids love it, and it’s a hit with adults too! Serve it up with some crusty bread, and watch everyone come back for seconds.

You’ll find that this chicken barley soup is not just a recipe; it’s a cozy tradition in the making. Enjoy every comforting spoonful!

Tips for Success

Before you dive into making your chicken barley soup, I’ve got some handy tips to ensure it turns out absolutely perfect every time! Trust me, these little nuggets of wisdom can make all the difference.

Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh veggies and herbs elevate the flavor of your soup. Don’t skimp on quality—your taste buds will thank you!
Adjust Seasoning to Taste: Everyone’s palate is different, so taste as you go. You might want to add a pinch more salt or a sprinkle of pepper to really bring out the flavors.
Check Barley Doneness: Barley should be chewy yet tender. If it feels too hard when you taste it, let it simmer a bit longer. It’s worth the wait for that perfect texture!
Don’t Rush the Simmer: Allowing your soup to simmer for the full 45 minutes is key to letting those flavors meld together beautifully. Patience is a virtue in the kitchen!
Store Leftovers Wisely: If you have any soup left, store it in an airtight container in the fridge. It tastes even better the next day as the flavors develop further!
Experiment with Herbs: Don’t hesitate to add other herbs like rosemary or parsley for an extra layer of flavor. Just a little tweak can make a big difference!

With these tips in your back pocket, you’re all set to make a delicious chicken barley soup that will warm your heart and soul. Happy cooking!

Variations of Chicken Barley Soup

If you’re like me, you love a good recipe that’s flexible! This chicken barley soup is a fantastic base, and there are so many fun ways to mix it up. Here are some delicious variations to inspire your next batch!

Vegetable Loaded: Toss in some chopped spinach, kale, or even zucchini for an extra boost of veggies. It’s a great way to sneak in more nutrition, and they add vibrant color!
Spicy Kick: If you enjoy a bit of heat, consider adding diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes. Just adjust according to your spice tolerance, and enjoy that warm kick!
Mushroom Medley: Sauté some sliced mushrooms along with your onions for an earthy flavor that complements the chicken and barley beautifully.
Herbaceous Twist: Experiment with fresh herbs like dill or basil. Adding them towards the end of cooking really brightens up the flavor profile!
Different Grains: Swap out the barley for quinoa or farro if you want to try something new. Each grain brings its own unique texture and flavor, making it a fun experiment!
Creamy Version: For a comforting, creamy twist, stir in a splash of cream or a dollop of Greek yogurt right before serving. It adds a lovely richness to the soup!

Feel free to get creative and adjust the recipe to suit your mood or what you have on hand. That’s the beauty of cooking—there are no strict rules! I can’t wait to hear how you make this chicken barley soup your own!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Once you’ve enjoyed your delicious chicken barley soup, you might find yourself with some leftovers—lucky you! Storing and reheating this soup is super simple, and it’s a great way to savor those comforting flavors again. Here’s how to do it right!

First off, let your soup cool down to room temperature. This helps prevent condensation in the storage container, which can make your soup watery. Once cooled, transfer it to an airtight container. You can keep it in the fridge for up to three days. Just make sure it’s sealed well to keep all that flavor locked in!

If you’d like to save it for later, you can freeze the chicken barley soup for up to three months. I love using freezer-safe bags or containers for this. Just be sure to leave a little space at the top of the container or bag, as the soup will expand when frozen. Label it with the date so you know when it was made!

When you’re ready to enjoy it again, reheating is a breeze! For the best results, I recommend thawing the soup in the fridge overnight if it’s frozen. When you’re ready to eat, pour it into a pot and heat it over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until it’s warmed through. If it seems a little thick, feel free to add a splash of water or broth to loosen it up. You can also microwave individual portions in a microwave-safe bowl. Just cover it loosely and heat in short bursts, stirring in between to ensure even heating.

And there you have it! With these storage and reheating tips, you can enjoy your chicken barley soup whenever the craving strikes. Trust me, it’s just as comforting the second time around!

Nutritional Information

As you dive into this delicious chicken barley soup, you might be curious about its nutritional benefits. Here’s an estimated breakdown of what you’ll be enjoying in each serving. Keep in mind that these values can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes, but this should give you a good idea!

Serving Size: 1 cup
Calories: 250
Total Fat: 5g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Unsaturated Fat: 3g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 50mg
Sodium: 600mg
Total Carbohydrates: 30g
Dietary Fiber: 5g
Sugars: 2g
Protein: 20g

This soup is not only hearty and satisfying but also packed with protein and fiber, making it a nourishing choice for any meal. So, enjoy every spoonful knowing you’re fueling your body with wholesome goodness!

FAQ Section

I know you might have some questions about chicken barley soup, so let’s tackle a few of the most common ones. I want to make sure you feel confident and excited to whip up this comforting dish!

Can I use frozen chicken in this recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw it before cooking to ensure even cooking. If you’re in a pinch, you can cook it from frozen, but it might take a bit longer to cook through.

What if I don’t have barley?
No problem at all! You can substitute with quinoa, farro, or even rice. Just keep in mind that cooking times might vary, so check the package instructions for the grain you choose.

Can I add other vegetables to the soup?
Definitely! Feel free to toss in any of your favorite veggies like spinach, peas, or corn. Just make sure to add them at the right time so they don’t get overcooked.

How can I make this soup gluten-free?
This chicken barley soup is already gluten-free if you use gluten-free barley or substitute with another grain like quinoa. Always check the packaging to be sure!

Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
Yes! Just sauté the veggies and chicken in a pan first, then transfer everything to your slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. It’s super convenient!

How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. You can also freeze the soup for up to three months—just remember to leave some space for expansion!

Is this soup good for meal prep?
Absolutely! It’s a fantastic meal prep option. You can make a big batch and portion it out for easy lunches or dinners throughout the week. Just reheat and enjoy!

Can I make it vegetarian?
Yes! Swap out the chicken for your favorite plant-based protein, like chickpeas or tofu, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You’ll still get a hearty and nutritious soup!

I hope these answers help you feel ready to dive into making your own chicken barley soup. Don’t hesitate to ask if you have more questions—cooking should always be fun and stress-free!

For more delicious recipes, check out Creamy Chicken Pasta or White Chicken Chili!

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About me

Hi, my name is Julia, I am the heart of Vihaad Recipes and a passionate lover of good food. My love for cooking began in childhood, inspired by my grandmother's delicious meals. Today, I share tasty recipes that bring people together through the shared enjoyment of food.