As the leaves change color and a chill settles into the air, there’s nothing quite like cozying up with a bowl of comforting warmth. That’s exactly what my Chicken and Barley Stew offers—a delightful fusion of tender chicken, hearty barley, and a medley of vibrant vegetables, all lovingly simmered in one pot. I discovered this recipe on a particularly gray afternoon when I was craving something both filling and nutritious.
This dish isn’t just about comfort; it’s incredibly simple to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights or lazy Sundays alike. Plus, with the wholesome balance of protein and grains, you’ll be savoring each spoonful without any guilt. Bring the family together around the table with this heartwarming stew, and let it work its magic—surely, it will soon become a beloved staple in your home!
Why You’ll Love This Chicken and Barley Stew
Comforting simplicity: With just one pot, cleanup is a breeze, allowing you to enjoy your culinary creation without any hassle.
Wholesome ingredients: Packed with protein, fiber, and vegetables, this stew supports a healthy lifestyle while tantalizing your taste buds.
Versatile option: Feel free to substitute with chicken breasts or load it with seasonal veggies for a personalized touch.
Make-ahead convenience: Perfect for meal prep, enjoy delicious leftovers that only get better with time.
Crowd-pleaser: Whether it’s a family dinner or a gathering with friends, this hearty stew will warm everyone’s heart!
Chicken and Barley Stew Ingredients
For the Stew
- Chicken Thighs – Provides rich flavor and tenderness; chicken breasts can be used if preferred.
- Dried Italian Seasoning – Adds a savory herbal note to the stew; alternatively, blend dried basil, oregano, and thyme.
- Yellow Onion – Builds the aromatic base; dice finely to ensure even cooking.
- Carrots – Adds natural sweetness and vibrant color; peel and dice for best results.
- Celery – Enhances the stew’s flavor profile; match the diced size to the carrots.
- Garlic – Enhances the dish with depth; minced garlic releases maximum flavor.
- Potatoes – Provides heartiness and structure; diced potatoes can be swapped with sweet potatoes for a twist.
- Chicken Broth – The base that adds warmth and depth; consider using low-sodium version for a healthier option.
- White Wine or Vinegar – Balances flavors with acidity; substitute with additional chicken broth if avoiding alcohol.
- Raw Barley – Offers chewiness and a nutty flavor; can also use farro for quicker cooking.
- Fresh Thyme, Rosemary, Sage – Herbaceous notes that elevate the dish; dried herbs can be used in smaller amounts if fresh isn’t available.
- Fresh Parsley – Adds a pop of color as a garnish; optional, but highly recommended for freshness.
This hearty Chicken and Barley Stew is packed with all the nutritious ingredients you’ll need for a cozy night in that you won’t soon forget!
How to Make Chicken and Barley Stew
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Prepare Chicken: Pat chicken thighs dry and season each side generously with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning to enhance the flavor.
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Brown Chicken: Heat olive oil in a Dutch oven over medium heat. Brown the chicken thighs on both sides for about 5-7 minutes each until golden, then shred and set aside.
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Sauté Aromatics: In the same pot, add finely diced onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
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Deglaze: Pour in half the white wine to deglaze the pot, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Add the remaining wine and bring to a simmer.
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Combine Ingredients: Stir in chicken broth, diced potatoes, shredded chicken, raw barley, and herbs. Bring the mixture to a boil, incorporating all the flavors.
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Simmer: Reduce the heat to a gentle simmer, cover the pot, and cook for about 30 minutes, until the chicken and potatoes are tender, and the barley is cooked through.
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Garnish: Serve hot, garnished with freshly chopped parsley to add a touch of color and freshness if desired.
Optional: Serve with crusty bread for a complete meal experience.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Chicken and Barley Stew
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Choose the Right Chicken: Use chicken thighs for richer flavor and moisture. If using chicken breasts, reduce cooking time slightly to prevent drying.
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Sauté for Flavor: Extend the sauté time for the aromatics; this step caramelizes the onions and deepens flavors in your Chicken and Barley Stew.
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Simmer Gently: Avoid a rolling boil during simmering. A gentle simmer will ensure even cooking and help retain the textures of the ingredients.
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Don’t Rush the Barley: Be patient with the barley; it needs to be cooked thoroughly. Keep an eye on it to avoid undercooking, which can lead to a hard texture.
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Customize Your Veggies: Feel free to add seasonal vegetables, like green beans or kale, to enhance nutrition without overwhelming the stew’s flavors.
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Revisit Leftovers: The stew tastes even better the next day as flavors meld. Store leftovers properly to enjoy this comforting meal again!
What to Serve with Chicken and Barley Stew?
When you’re ready to elevate your cozy meal, here are some delightful pairings to complement every hearty bite.
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Crusty Artisan Bread: Perfect for dipping, this warm bread enhances the stew’s flavors while providing a satisfying crunch.
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Simple Green Salad: A refreshing mix of greens and vinaigrette balances the rich stew, adding brightness and texture to your meal.
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Roasted Veggies: Seasonal roasted vegetables introduce a smoky sweetness that pairs beautifully with the stew’s hearty components.
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Garlic Bread: The crunchy, buttery goodness of garlic bread is irresistible and complements the rich, savory notes of your stew.
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Cheesy Polenta: This creamy dish adds a comforting and indulgent element to your meal, making every spoonful even more delightful.
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Crisp White Wine: A chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc will enhance the stew’s flavors, brightening each bite with its refreshing acidity.
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Baked Apples: For dessert, warm cinnamon-spiced baked apples represent a perfect sweet ending, echoing the cozy feel of the stew.
Chicken and Barley Stew Variations
Feel free to mix and match ingredients to create your own unique spin on this comforting dish!
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Dairy-Free: Swap chicken broth with vegetable broth and avoid any dairy-based garnishes for a lighter option.
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Gluten-Free: Replace barley with quinoa or rice to accommodate those with gluten sensitivities.
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Vegetarian Twist: Eliminate the chicken and add hearty beans like chickpeas or black beans for plant-based protein.
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Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to bring a warm and zesty heat to the stew.
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Seasonal Veggies: Incorporate fall favorites like butternut squash or zucchini for a fresh take that highlights seasonal produce.
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Herb Mash-Up: Experiment with fresh herbs like cilantro or dill instead of the traditional thyme and rosemary for a delightful flavor shift.
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Extra Creaminess: Blend in a cup of coconut milk or cashew cream before serving for a luxuriously creamy texture.
With each of these variations, you’ll unlock new flavors while keeping the heart and soul of this Chicken and Barley Stew intact!
Make Ahead Options
This Chicken and Barley Stew is perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time on busy weeknights! You can chop all the vegetables (onion, carrots, celery, and potatoes) up to 3 days in advance and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Additionally, you can season and brown the chicken thighs 24 hours before cooking—brown them, let them cool, and store in the fridge. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the sautéed vegetables and cooked chicken in your pot, add your chicken broth, barley, and remaining ingredients, then simmer until everything is heated through and delicious. With these steps, you’ll enjoy a heartwarming meal with minimal effort and just as many comforting flavors!
How to Store and Freeze Chicken and Barley Stew
Fridge: Store leftover Chicken and Barley Stew in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Ensure it’s completely cooled before sealing to maintain freshness.
Freezer: This stew freezes beautifully! Transfer it to freezer-safe containers and enjoy it for up to 3 months. Avoid using glass containers to prevent breakage.
Reheating: To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge if frozen, then warm on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. Add a splash of broth or water if it thickens too much.
Meal Prep: Perfect for meal prepping, this stew is a hearty, nutritious option that saves time and effort on busy days—simply reheat and enjoy!
Chicken and Barley Stew Recipe FAQs
What kind of chicken is best for this stew?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are ideal for this Chicken and Barley Stew because they provide rich flavor and tenderness. If you prefer a leaner cut, you can absolutely substitute with chicken breasts, just be careful not to overcook them to avoid dryness.
How do I store leftover Chicken and Barley Stew?
You can store leftover Chicken and Barley Stew in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Make sure the stew has cooled completely before sealing the container to maintain its freshness.
Can I freeze Chicken and Barley Stew?
Very! This stew freezes beautifully. To freeze, transfer the cooled stew into freezer-safe containers, avoiding glass to prevent breakage. You can enjoy it for up to 3 months in the freezer. For best results, label the container with the date and contents.
What should I do if the barley isn’t cooking properly?
If you find that the barley is undercooked, don’t worry! Just let the stew simmer a little longer—up to 15 minutes more, stirring occasionally to check for doneness. If it seems too thick, add a splash of chicken broth or water to help it cook through and prevent sticking.
Can I add different vegetables to my stew?
Absolutely! Feel free to get creative with seasonal veggies. Adding green beans, kale, or even frozen peas can enhance the nutritional content and flavor without overwhelming the stew’s essence. Just make sure to cut them to a similar size for consistent cooking.
Is this stew safe for my pets?
It’s great that you’re thinking of your furry friends! While the ingredients in Chicken and Barley Stew are wholesome for humans, onions and garlic can be toxic to dogs and cats. So please refrain from sharing this dish with your pets.
Hearty Chicken and Barley Stew for Cozy Nights In
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Pat chicken thighs dry and season each side generously with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
- Heat olive oil in a Dutch oven over medium heat. Brown the chicken thighs on both sides for about 5-7 minutes each until golden, then shred and set aside.
- In the same pot, add finely diced onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
- Pour in half the white wine to deglaze the pot, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Add the remaining wine and bring to a simmer.
- Stir in chicken broth, diced potatoes, shredded chicken, raw barley, and herbs. Bring the mixture to a boil.
- Reduce the heat to a gentle simmer, cover the pot, and cook for about 30 minutes, until the chicken and potatoes are tender, and the barley is cooked through.
- Serve hot, garnished with freshly chopped parsley to add color and freshness if desired.