How to Create Hearty Chicken and Barley Stew: A Simple Guide
Nothing feels more comforting than a steaming bowl of hearty soup on a chilly day. Chicken and barley stew is the perfect dish to warm your soul and satisfy your appetite. It’s easy to make, packed with protein and fiber, and uses simple ingredients you may already have at home. In this blog, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to create this delicious stew. Let’s get started!
What Is Chicken and Barley Stew?
Chicken and barley stew is a wholesome dish made with tender chicken, chewy barley, fresh vegetables, and fragrant herbs simmered in a flavorful broth. Barley is a type of grain rich in fiber that adds bulk and texture to the stew, making it a filling meal. The combination of ingredients makes this recipe nutritious, hearty, and irresistible.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here are the basic ingredients for chicken and barley stew:
- Chicken: Chicken breasts or thighs work best, but you can use whatever chicken you prefer. Thighs often add more flavor because of their higher fat content.
- Barley: Pearled barley is the most commonly used type and cooks relatively quickly. Make sure to rinse it before cooking.
- Vegetables: Carrots, celery, onions, and garlic are the classics. You can add others, like potatoes, sweet potatoes, or mushrooms, for extra flavor.
- Chicken Broth: This serves as the base for your stew. Use low-sodium broth if you’re watching your salt intake.
- Oil: Olive oil, vegetable oil, or butter works for sautéing your ingredients.
- Herbs and Spices: Bay leaves, thyme, rosemary, and parsley are great options. Don’t forget salt and pepper.
- Optional Garnish: Fresh parsley, grated Parmesan cheese, or a squeeze of lemon juice to brighten the flavors.
Feel free to customize the stew based on your preferences or what’s in your fridge!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these simple steps, and soon your kitchen will smell amazing as the stew simmers to perfection.
1. Prepare Your Ingredients
Before you start cooking, wash and chop your veggies into bite-sized pieces. Rinse the barley under cold water to remove any excess dust or starch. If your chicken isn’t pre-cut, dice it into chunks. Prepping everything beforehand ensures the cooking process stays stress-free.
2. Sauté the Vegetables
Heat a splash of oil or a small knob of butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onions, carrots, and celery first. These are known as “aromatics” because they release wonderful smells when cooked. Stir the vegetables for 5–6 minutes until they soften slightly.
Next, add minced garlic and sauté for 1–2 minutes. Keep stirring to prevent the garlic from burning, as burnt garlic can make your dish bitter.
3. Brown the Chicken
Push the veggies to one side of the pot and add your chicken chunks. Let them cook for 3–4 minutes on each side until they’re golden brown. Browning helps lock in their flavor and gives the stew a richer taste.
4. Add Barley and Broth
Once your chicken is browned, pour in your chicken broth. Add the rinsed barley to the pot and stir everything together. The barley will absorb the broth as it cooks, making the stew thicker and more satisfying.
5. Season the Stew
Toss in your bay leaves, thyme, rosemary, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir again to mix the seasonings evenly. Bring the pot to a gentle boil, then lower the heat to let the stew simmer.
6. Simmer to Perfection
Cover the pot and let your stew simmer for 35–40 minutes. Stir occasionally to make sure the barley is cooking evenly and nothing is sticking to the bottom. You’ll know the stew is ready when the barley is tender and the chicken is completely cooked through.
If the broth reduces too much while simmering, add a little water or more chicken broth to maintain the desired consistency.
7. Taste and Adjust
Before serving, take a taste. Adjust the seasoning—add more salt, pepper, or herbs if needed. If you like a touch of brightness, squeeze in a little lemon juice or sprinkle chopped parsley on top.
Serving Suggestions
Chicken and barley stew is best served hot with crusty bread or dinner rolls for dipping. The bread soaks up the rich broth, making each bite even more satisfying. You can also enjoy it with a side salad if you’re looking for something lighter to complement the hearty stew.
Storage Tips
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The stew tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to meld. To reheat, simply transfer the stew to a pot and warm it on the stove. Add a splash of water or broth if the stew has thickened too much.
If you want to freeze the stew for later, cool it completely before placing it in a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Chicken and barley stew checks all the boxes—it’s simple, nutritious, and budget-friendly. The recipe uses pantry staples and allows for flexibility, so you can use what’s available and adjust to your taste preferences. It’s a dish that feels special but isn’t complicated to make, making it perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings.
Final Thoughts
Now that you know how to make hearty chicken and barley stew, it’s time to grab your ingredients and get cooking! This one-pot wonder will fill your home with the cozy aroma of simmering vegetables and herbs. Whether you’re serving it to guests or enjoying it solo, this stew will soon become a favorite in your recipe collection. Enjoy!
