As the days grow shorter and a chill creeps into the air, there’s nothing quite like the warmth of a steaming bowl of Chicken Barley Soup to wrap you in comfort. This isn’t just any soup—it’s a hearty, nourishing mix of tender chicken, wholesome barley, and vibrant kale, all brought together with a drizzle of zesty garlic chili oil. Just the thought of the rich aroma filling my kitchen makes me crave it on busy weeknights and lazy Sundays alike.
What I love most about this recipe is its versatility. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a home cook looking to impress, you can whip it up in under an hour! With only a few ingredients, it’s a success story of health and flavor that’ll leave your taste buds dancing and your belly satisfied. Perfect as a cozy dinner option or a meal prep hero, this soup is bound to become a staple in your recipe rotation. Let’s dive into this comforting bowl of goodness together!
Why is Chicken Barley Soup so satisfying?
Comforting Warmth: There’s nothing like a hot bowl of soup to soothe the soul on chilly days.
Nutrient-Packed: With fresh kale and high-fiber barley, this soup provides essential vitamins and minerals.
Quick and Easy: In just about an hour, you can have a homemade meal that’s simple to prepare yet full of flavor.
Versatile Ingredients: Swap barley for other grains like rice or farro, making it adaptable to what you have on hand.
Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for dinner parties or family meals, this soup invites everyone to gather around the table for a heartwarming experience.
Delicious Chicken Barley Soup Ingredients
For the Soup
• Olive Oil – Adds richness and depth; substitute with avocado oil if desired.
• Garlic Cloves – Provide aromatic flavor; slice thinly for optimal infusion.
• Crushed Red Pepper Flakes – Adds heat; reduce for a milder soup.
• Sweet Onion – Offers a sweet flavor base; can use white onion as a substitute.
• Chicken Broth – Essential for the soup’s flavor; opt for low-sodium for healthier seasoning.
• Barley – Offers a satisfying chewy texture and is high in fiber; may substitute with rice or farro.
• Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts – Main protein source; shred after cooking for a lovely texture.
• Kale – Provides nutritional benefits; remove tough stems for a tender bite.
• Lemon Juice – Brightens flavors with acidity; fresh juice enhances the taste.
• Kosher Salt and Black Pepper – Essential for seasoning; adjust to your preference.
How to Make Chicken Barley Soup
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Heat oil: Begin by heating olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once hot, add the thinly sliced garlic and sauté for 2-3 minutes until fragrant and lightly golden. Transfer the garlic and oil to a bowl, then stir in the crushed red pepper flakes.
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Sauté onion: In the same pot, add 1 tablespoon of the reserved garlic oil. Sauté the diced sweet onion for about 5 minutes, until it turns translucent and aromatic, laying a flavorful foundation for your soup.
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Combine broth and grains: Pour in the chicken broth, add the barley, and place the boneless, skinless chicken breasts into the pot. Bring everything to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer uncovered for 20 minutes, ensuring the chicken cooks through thoroughly.
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Shred chicken: Once the chicken is cooked (it should reach an internal temperature of 165°F), carefully remove it from the pot. Shred the chicken using two forks and return it to the pot, continuing to cook the soup for another 30-40 minutes until the barley is soft and has absorbed some of the flavors.
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Add kale: Stir in the chopped kale and the shredded chicken, allowing it to wilt slightly. Remove the pot from heat and mix in the fresh lemon juice, enhancing the soup’s brightness. Taste and adjust seasoning with kosher salt and black pepper as needed.
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Serve and enjoy: Ladle the soup into bowls and finish with a drizzle of the reserved garlic chili oil on top for an extra kick.
Optional: Garnish with freshly chopped herbs like parsley or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese for added flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Chicken Barley Soup Variations
Feel free to mix things up and make this comforting dish your own!
- Grain Swap: Replace barley with quinoa or brown rice for varying textures and flavors.
- Leafy Greens: Add spinach or Swiss chard for an extra nutrient boost and wonderful color.
- Vegetarian Option: Use chickpeas in place of chicken and vegetable broth for a hearty veggie twist.
- Extra Veggies: Toss in diced carrots, celery, or bell peppers for added crunch and flavor complexity.
- Herb Infusion: Fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary can elevate the aroma and taste of your soup.
- Creamy Twist: Stir in a splash of coconut milk or heavy cream for a luxuriously creamy texture.
- Zingy Citrus: A splash of lime juice can replace lemon for a brighter, tangy flavor profile.
- Spicy Kick: Add jalapeños or hot sauce for an extra level of heat that enhances the warmth of the soup.
What to Serve with Chicken Barley Soup?
As the aroma of this hearty soup fills your kitchen, you might ponder what to enjoy alongside it for a complete meal.
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Crusty Bread: A warm, buttery loaf is perfect for soaking up the flavorful broth, enhancing every comforting spoonful.
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Simple Green Salad: Tossed greens with a light vinaigrette provide a refreshing crunch that contrasts beautifully with the soup’s hearty textures.
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Roasted Vegetables: Sweet, caramelized veggies add a delightful depth of flavor and a rainbow of nutrients to your meal, making it even more satisfying.
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Garlic Breadsticks: These warm, cheesy breadsticks are a delightful addition that echoes the garlicky notes of the soup while adding a fun, enjoyable twist.
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Cheesy Gratin: A rich, cheesy potato gratin is a loving comfort by its own right and pairs excellently with the soup, adding depth to your dinner.
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Herbal Tea: A fragrant cup of herbal tea is a soothing complement, making each sip between bites feel like a cozy embrace from the inside out.
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Apple Crisp: Finish your meal on a sweet note with a warm, buttery apple crisp. The natural sweetness balances the savory flavors of the soup beautifully.
How to Store and Freeze Chicken Barley Soup
Fridge: Store leftover chicken barley soup in airtight containers for up to 4 days, ensuring maximum freshness.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the soup in labeled airtight containers for up to 4-6 months, allowing you to enjoy this cozy dish anytime.
Reheating: When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stove. Add a splash of broth or water if it’s thickened.
Cooling: Allow the soup to cool to room temperature before freezing to prevent freezer burn, ensuring the best quality for your chicken barley soup.
Make Ahead Options
These Chicken Barley Soup meal prep options are perfect for busy home cooks! You can chop the garlic, onions, and kale up to 24 hours in advance and store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator to save time during cooking. Additionally, the broth and barley can be combined and refrigerated for up to 3 days for quick access. When you’re ready to enjoy the soup, simply reheat the broth mixture, add your shredded chicken, kale, and simmer until everything is heated through. This way, you’ll have a comforting bowl of Chicken Barley Soup ready to enjoy with minimal effort and just as delicious as if made fresh!
Tips for the Best Chicken Barley Soup
- Fresh Ingredients: Use the freshest kale and chicken possible; this will significantly enhance the flavor and nutritional value of your chicken barley soup.
- Thicker Broth: If you prefer a thicker soup, let it simmer longer or add a splash of cream or sour cream before serving for a rich finish.
- Adjust Seasoning: Always taste your soup before serving; adjusting salt and pepper at the end ensures it’s perfectly seasoned based on your preference.
- Pop of Flavor: Don’t skip the garlic chili oil drizzle on top; it adds an exciting kick that enhances the overall flavor of the chicken barley soup.
- Storing Leftovers: Cool soup before refrigerating in airtight containers; it can be stored for up to 4 days and reheated gently on the stove or in a microwave.
- Cooking Barley: Make sure to check the barley during cooking; it’s done when it triples in size and is tender, ensuring the perfect chewy texture.
Chicken Barley Soup Recipe FAQs
What should I look for when selecting kale for the soup?
Absolutely! When choosing kale, look for vibrant, dark green leaves that are fresh and crisp. Avoid any that have yellowing or dark spots all over, as these indicate aging. The leaves should feel firm and not wilted.
How long can I store leftover Chicken Barley Soup?
Leftover Chicken Barley Soup can be stored in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 4 days. Make sure to cool it down to room temperature before placing it in the fridge to maintain freshness and prevent spoilage!
How do I freeze Chicken Barley Soup effectively?
To freeze your Chicken Barley Soup, allow it to cool completely to avoid freezer burn. Then, portion it into labeled airtight containers or freezer bags, leaving some space for expansion. It can last for 4-6 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat it gently on the stove, adding a splash of broth or water if needed.
What spices can I add if my soup is lacking flavor?
Very! If your Chicken Barley Soup needs a flavor boost, consider adding a pinch more salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. You can also sprinkle in a bit of garlic powder, onion powder, or even an extra dash of crushed red pepper flakes for added warmth. Stir in some fresh herbs like parsley or thyme before serving for a pop of freshness!
Is Chicken Barley Soup safe for my pet?
It’s important to be cautious! While chicken is safe for most pets, some ingredients like onion and garlic can be harmful to them. Always opt for a plain chicken version without any added seasonings or additives if you wish to share, and consult your veterinarian if unsure.
What if my barley isn’t cooking properly?
Commonly, barley should triple in size and become soft but chewy when cooked. If yours isn’t softening, make sure it’s simmering gently and not boiling vigorously. You can add a bit more liquid if it looks too dry. Allow it to cook a bit longer, checking every few minutes until you achieve that perfect texture!
Healthy Chicken Barley Soup with Garlic Chili Oil Comfort
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Begin by heating olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once hot, add the thinly sliced garlic and sauté for 2-3 minutes until fragrant and lightly golden. Transfer the garlic and oil to a bowl, then stir in the crushed red pepper flakes.
- In the same pot, add 1 tablespoon of the reserved garlic oil. Sauté the diced sweet onion for about 5 minutes, until it turns translucent and aromatic, laying a flavorful foundation for your soup.
- Pour in the chicken broth, add the barley, and place the boneless, skinless chicken breasts into the pot. Bring everything to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer uncovered for 20 minutes, ensuring the chicken cooks through thoroughly.
- Once the chicken is cooked (it should reach an internal temperature of 165°F), carefully remove it from the pot. Shred the chicken using two forks and return it to the pot, continuing to cook the soup for another 30-40 minutes until the barley is soft and has absorbed some of the flavors.
- Stir in the chopped kale and the shredded chicken, allowing it to wilt slightly. Remove the pot from heat and mix in the fresh lemon juice, enhancing the soup's brightness. Taste and adjust seasoning with kosher salt and black pepper as needed.
- Ladle the soup into bowls and finish with a drizzle of the reserved garlic chili oil on top for an extra kick.