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Chicken Barley Soup

Cozy Chicken Barley Soup for a Hearty, Healthy Meal

This Chicken Barley Soup is a comforting meal packed with protein and wholesome ingredients, perfect for chilly nights.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 6 cups
Course: Soup
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

For the Base
  • 2 tablespoons Extra Virgin Olive Oil Can substitute with avocado oil
  • 1 cup Diced Carrots No substitute recommended
  • 1 cup Chopped Celery Essential for flavor
  • 1 cup Diced Onion Shallots can be substituted
  • 3 cloves Minced Garlic Fresh preferred
For the Protein
  • 1 pound Boneless Skinless Chicken Thighs Chicken breasts can be used
  • 4 cups Low Sodium Chicken Broth Beef or vegetable broth can be used
For the Soup Body
  • 1 cup Dry Pearl Barley Rice or farro can be substituted
  • 2 tablespoons Tomato Paste Crushed tomatoes can substitute
For Seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder Fresh garlic may also work
  • to taste Black Pepper Adjust to your taste
  • 1 tablespoon Dried Parsley Thyme or sage can be alternatives
  • 1 teaspoon Dried Rosemary
  • 2 Bay Leaves Remove before serving
For the Finishing Touches
  • 1 piece Parmesan Rind Optional but recommended
  • 1 cup Corn Can be omitted
  • 1 cup Peas Can be omitted

Equipment

  • large pot

Method
 

Instructions
  1. In a large pot, heat 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil over medium-high heat until shimmering, about 1-2 minutes.
  2. Add 1 cup each of diced carrots, chopped celery, and diced onion, along with 3 minced garlic cloves. Sauté for 5 minutes until tender.
  3. Stir in 1 pound of boneless skinless chicken thighs, 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth, 1 cup dry pearl barley, 2 tablespoons tomato paste, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, black pepper, 1 tablespoon dried parsley, and 1 teaspoon dried rosemary. Add 2 bay leaves and Parmesan rind if using.
  4. Cover and bring to a boil over high heat for about 10 minutes. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer covered for 20 minutes.
  5. Carefully remove the chicken thighs, cool slightly, and shred them. Return shredded chicken to the pot.
  6. Add 1 cup of corn and 1 cup of peas. Stir until heated through and remove bay leaves and Parmesan rind before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1bowlCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 32gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 120mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 700mgFiber: 6gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 100IUVitamin C: 20mgCalcium: 4mgIron: 10mg

Notes

Monitor cooking times and adjust seasonings for the best flavor balance. Chop veggies ahead of time for quicker prep.

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