Hearty Chicken Barley Soup
A warm, comforting bowl of shredded chicken, tender vegetables, and nutty barley simmered in a rich, herbed broth. This nourishing soup is perfect for cozy days or immune-boosting meals.
- Author: Djihane
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup cooked or quick-cooking pearl barley
- 2 cups shredded cooked chicken
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Salt to taste
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- Optional: squeeze of lemon for brightness
- In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté onion, garlic, carrots, and celery for 5–6 minutes until softened.
- Pour in chicken broth and bring to a boil.
- Add thyme, oregano, pepper, and salt. Stir in cooked barley and shredded chicken.
- Reduce heat and simmer for 15–20 minutes, allowing the flavors to blend.
- Taste and adjust seasoning. Stir in fresh parsley and a squeeze of lemon if desired.
- Serve hot with crusty bread or crackers.
Notes
- Use leftover rotisserie chicken for convenience.
- Barley can be cooked in advance and stored in the fridge.
- For extra vegetables, add spinach or kale during the last 5 minutes of cooking.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
Keywords: chicken barley soup, healthy soup, comfort food, chicken vegetable soup, immune-boosting meal