Warm up your kitchen and your soul with this delightful Creamy Chicken and Barley Soup! Perfect for chilly evenings or whenever you crave something comforting, this rich and hearty dish combines tender chicken, wholesome barley, and vibrant vegetables in a creamy broth that will have everyone asking for seconds. With just 45 minutes from prep to table, you'll discover how easy it is to create a culinary masterpiece that’s not only satisfying but also a feast for the eyes. Ready to impress your family and friends? Let’s dive into this delicious recipe that promises to become a staple in your home!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup pearl barley
- 1 lb chicken breast, diced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare all ingredients by washing and chopping vegetables: dice the chicken breast into small cubes, finely chop the onion, dice carrots and celery into uniform small pieces.
- In a large heavy-bottomed pot, heat a small amount of olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onions and sauté until they become translucent and soft, approximately 3-4 minutes.
- Add diced carrots and celery to the pot, cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes until vegetables begin to soften and release their aromatics.
- Add diced chicken breast to the vegetable mixture, stirring and cooking until the chicken turns white and begins to lightly brown, about 5-6 minutes.
- Pour in chicken broth and pearl barley, bringing the mixture to a gentle boil. Reduce heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer for 25-30 minutes until barley is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.
- Once barley is cooked, slowly stir in heavy cream, creating a rich and creamy texture. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
- Allow soup to simmer for an additional 3-4 minutes after adding cream to meld flavors and heat through.
- Remove from heat and let rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving hot.
Tips
- Prep Ahead: To save time, chop your vegetables and dice the chicken in advance. This will make the cooking process smoother and quicker.
- Choose Quality Ingredients: Opt for fresh, organic chicken and high-quality chicken broth to enhance the flavor of your soup.
- Adjust the Creaminess: If you prefer a lighter soup, you can reduce the amount of heavy cream or substitute it with half-and-half or a non-dairy cream alternative.
- Add Extra Flavor: Consider adding garlic or herbs like thyme or rosemary while sautéing the vegetables for an extra layer of flavor.
- Garnish for Presentation: Fresh parsley not only adds a pop of color but also brings a fresh taste to the rich soup. Don’t skip this step!
- Leftovers: This soup stores well in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of broth if it thickens too much.
- Customize Your Veggies: Feel free to swap in your favorite vegetables, such as peas or corn, for a personal touch and added nutrition.
- Taste as You Go: Always taste your soup before serving to adjust the seasoning to your preference. A little extra salt and pepper can elevate the entire dish!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 420kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 30g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Cholesterol: 95mg
