As the chill of evening settles in, there’s nothing quite like the homey warmth of a bubbling pot of Chicken and Barley Stew. It’s like a big hug in a bowl, filled with tender chicken thighs, vibrant vegetables, and aromatic herbs that dance together in a rich broth. This one-pot wonder not only satisfies my cravings but also simplifies my busy weeknight routine – less cleanup means more time to unwind with loved ones.
What I love most about this stew is its adaptability; it’s perfect for using up leftover chicken or whatever veggies I have on hand. And if you’re exploring gluten-free options, we’ve got you covered! The hearty barley creates a cozy texture that warms both body and soul, making each spoonful feel like a nurturing embrace. Join me as I share this delightful recipe that will transform your evenings into something special, one savory bowl at a time.
Why is Chicken and Barley Stew So Amazing?
Comforting Texture: This hearty stew combines tender chicken thighs and soft vegetables in a rich broth, giving you a bowl of pure comfort.
Adaptable Ingredients: Perfect for using up leftovers, you can substitute different veggies and proteins easily!
One-Pot Wonder: Say goodbye to piles of dishes; cooking everything in one pot saves time and cleanup.
Healthy Choice: Packed with protein and fiber, this dish satisfies while keeping things wholesome.
Crowd-Pleasing Meal: Whether it’s a family gathering or a cozy dinner for two, everyone will fall in love with its flavors!
Chicken and Barley Stew Ingredients
• Perfect for your next cozy night in!
For the Stew
- Chicken Thighs – Provides rich flavor and tender meat; substitute with chicken breast if desired, but thighs enhance the dish’s flavor.
- Dried Italian Seasoning – Adds herbs and spices for depth; can be replaced with a mix of oregano, basil, and thyme.
- Yellow Onion – Provides sweetness and aromatics; use any onion variety as a substitute, though yellow onion is preferred for its flavor.
- Carrots – Adds sweetness and color; substitute with parsnips for a different flavor.
- Celery – Contributes crunch and depth; can be omitted if unavailable.
- Garlic – Enhances flavor with its pungent aroma; no substitute, but use garlic powder in a pinch.
- Potatoes – Offers heartiness to the stew; substitute with sweet potatoes or parsnips for a twist.
- Chicken Broth – The base for the stew’s liquid; use vegetable broth for a vegetarian version.
- White Wine/Vinegar – Adds acidity to balance flavors; substitute wine with more broth or use lemon juice for acidity.
- Raw Barley – Provides texture and thickens the stew; substitute with quinoa or farro, which may alter cooking time.
- Fresh Thyme, Rosemary, Sage – Essential for aromatic flavor; dried herbs can be used at half the amount.
- Fresh Parsley – For garnish, adding color and freshness.
This Chicken and Barley Stew is sure to become a favorite for all your family meals!
How to Make Chicken and Barley Stew
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Prepare Chicken: Pat dry the chicken thighs; sprinkle with salt, pepper, and dried Italian seasoning for that delicious flavor infusion.
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Brown Chicken: Heat olive oil in a Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Carefully add the chicken thighs and brown them on both sides until fully cooked through, about 10-14 minutes total.
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Shred Chicken: Remove the chicken from the pot and shred it into bite-sized pieces; set aside. Be sure to drain any excess fat left in the pot for a cleaner broth.
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Sauté Vegetables: In the same pot, sauté chopped onion, carrots, and celery for about 7 minutes until they soften. Then add minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute to awaken those fragrant aromas.
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Deglaze Pot: Pour in the white wine, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot; this adds fantastic depth to your stew.
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Combine Ingredients: Now, incorporate chicken broth, chopped potatoes, shredded chicken, barley, and herbs. Give everything a good stir and bring it to a gentle boil.
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Simmer Stew: Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for about 30 minutes until the veggies are tender and the barley is cooked to perfection. Don’t forget to garnish with fresh parsley just before serving for added color and freshness!
Optional: Serve with crusty bread for a delightful dipping experience.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Chicken and Barley Stew components are perfect for busy cooks looking to save time! You can prep your chopped vegetables (onions, carrots, and celery) and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Additionally, cooking the chicken thighs and shredding them ahead of time allows for quicker assembly when you’re ready to enjoy this meal; this cooked chicken can be refrigerated for up to 24 hours. When it’s time to serve, simply sauté the prepped veggies, deglaze the pot, and add in the broth, shredded chicken, barley, and herbs, simmering until everything is heated through. This way, you’ll have a comforting, hearty stew just as delicious as if you made it all in one go!
Chicken and Barley Stew Variations
Customize your stew experience with these exciting options to enhance flavors and cater to your preferences.
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Leftover Chicken: Use shredded rotisserie chicken to save time and add flavor without the extra cooking.
This is a game changer for busy evenings! Just toss it in at the end to warm through. -
Gluten-Free Option: Replace barley with quinoa or rice to make this dish suitable for gluten-sensitive diets.
Both options retain the hearty feeling while offering a delightful texture twist. -
Vegetable Boost: Toss in a can of diced tomatoes or a tablespoon of tomato paste for a tangy depth.
It transforms the stew into a vibrant dish, adding both color and a hint of sweetness. -
Herb Variations: Experiment with fresh dill or cilantro instead of thyme for a completely new flavor profile.
Fresh herbs can bring the stew to life, adding brightness and a unique twist. -
Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño to introduce some heat to your comforting bowl.
This is perfect for those who enjoy a little warmth in their meals while still savoring the stew’s richness. -
Creamy Texture: Stir in a splash of cream or coconut milk for an indulgently creamy consistency.
This variation creates a rich and velvety stew that elevates your dining experience. -
Sweet Potatoes: Swap out regular potatoes for sweet potatoes to introduce a subtle sweetness and nutrition boost.
They add lovely color and a slightly different taste that complements the dish beautifully. -
Broth Swap: Use homemade stock or bone broth for a deeper, more nourishing flavor.
This gives the dish a robust base, enhancing every delightful bite.
What to Serve with Chicken and Barley Stew?
As the rich aroma of Chicken and Barley Stew wafts through your home, let’s explore delightful pairings that will make your meal even more memorable.
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Crusty Bread: The perfect accompaniment for dipping into your hearty stew, enhancing every savory bite with a delightful crunch.
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Simple Green Salad: A refreshing mix of greens with a light vinaigrette balances the stew’s warmth, providing a crisp contrast on your plate.
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Garlic Bread: While you savor the comfort of the stew, this flavorful treat adds a wonderful garlicky kick that complements the dish beautifully.
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Roasted Vegetables: Toss some seasonal veggies with olive oil and herbs, roast until tender, and enjoy their caramelized sweetness alongside your stew.
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Mashed Potatoes: Creamy and buttery, mashed potatoes provide an irresistible texture that pairs well with the stew’s thickness—smoosh them together for pure bliss!
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Red Wine: Pour a glass of bold red to enhance the dish’s savory depth; a medium-bodied Merlot works wonderfully—sipping and savoring at its best!
Embrace these pairings to create a cozy, satisfying meal that brings comfort to your dining table.
Storage Tips for Chicken and Barley Stew
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of broth if needed.
Freezer: This Chicken and Barley Stew freezes beautifully for up to 3 months. Allow it to cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers.
Thawing: For best results, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating on the stove. This helps maintain the stew’s rich texture.
Reheating: When reheating, stir occasionally and add a little water or broth, ensuring the stew warms evenly and retains its hearty goodness.
Expert Tips for Chicken and Barley Stew
Cook Chicken Properly: Ensure chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F for safety and proper texture.
Simmer Long Enough: Allow barley enough time to soften, aiming for about 30 minutes of simmering for the best Chicken and Barley Stew consistency.
Use Fresh Herbs: Opt for fresh herbs whenever possible; they elevate the flavor significantly compared to dried herbs.
Adjust for Gluten-Free: If you need a gluten-free option, swap barley with quinoa or rice, keeping an eye on cooking times.
Mind your Salt: Be cautious with added salt, especially if using broth that already contains sodium; taste as you go!
Store Wisely: Leftover stew can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the fridge, making it great for meal prep.
Chicken and Barley Stew Recipe FAQs
What type of chicken should I use?
Absolutely, I recommend chicken thighs for their rich flavor and tenderness. If you prefer chicken breasts, they can be used as a substitute, but the stew may not have the same depth of flavor.
How do I store leftover Chicken and Barley Stew?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you have a busy week ahead, it’s a great idea to make this meal in advance!
Can I freeze Chicken and Barley Stew?
Yes! This hearty stew freezes beautifully. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer to freezer-safe containers, storing for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stove.
What if my barley isn’t cooking properly?
If your barley is taking longer than expected to soften, it may need more time to simmer. Be patient; just cover and let it cook for an additional 10-15 minutes. If you find the stew becoming too thick, add a splash of broth or water to loosen it up while it continues cooking.
Are there dietary considerations for Chicken and Barley Stew?
Yes! This stew is naturally glutenous due to barley. For a gluten-free option, substitute with quinoa or rice. Always check for any allergies related to the specific ingredients you’re using, like broth or seasonings.
How should I pick fresh vegetables for the stew?
When selecting vegetables, look for firm and vibrant options. For instance, opt for carrots without dark spots and yellow onions that are heavy for their size. Freshness impacts not just safety but also the overall taste and texture of your Chicken and Barley Stew.
Cozy Chicken and Barley Stew for Ultimate Comfort Food
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Pat dry the chicken thighs; sprinkle with salt, pepper, and dried Italian seasoning.
- Heat olive oil in a Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Brown the chicken thighs on both sides until fully cooked through, about 10-14 minutes total.
- Remove the chicken from the pot and shred it into bite-sized pieces; set aside.
- In the same pot, sauté chopped onion, carrots, and celery for about 7 minutes until they soften. Add minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute.
- Pour in the white wine, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot.
- Incorporate chicken broth, chopped potatoes, shredded chicken, barley, and herbs. Stir and bring to a gentle boil.
- Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for about 30 minutes until the veggies are tender and the barley is cooked.
- Garnish with fresh parsley just before serving.