Warm up your kitchen and your heart with a bowl of Slim Quick Chicken Barley Soup! This delightful American classic is not only a comforting dish but also a nutritious powerhouse, perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends. With just 40 minutes from prep to table, you can serve up a hearty meal that will leave your family asking for seconds. Packed with tender chicken, wholesome barley, and a medley of fresh vegetables, this soup is a must-try for anyone looking to elevate their culinary game. Ready to dive into a recipe that’s as easy as it is delicious? Let’s get cooking!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless chicken breast, diced
- 1/2 cup barley
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
Instructions
- Begin by preparing all your ingredients. Dice the boneless chicken breast into bite-sized pieces, chop the onion, and dice the carrots and celery. Rinse the barley under cold water and set it aside.
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chopped onion. Sauté the onion for about 3-4 minutes, or until it becomes translucent.
- Add the diced carrots and celery to the pot. Continue to sauté the vegetables for an additional 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they start to soften.
- Next, add the diced chicken breast to the pot. Cook the chicken for about 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently, until it is no longer pink on the outside.
- Sprinkle in 1 teaspoon of dried thyme, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir to combine the spices with the chicken and vegetables.
- Pour in 4 cups of chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, add the rinsed barley to the pot.
- Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let the soup simmer for about 30 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent the barley from sticking to the bottom of the pot.
- After 30 minutes, check the barley for tenderness. If it is cooked to your liking, taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if necessary.
- Once the soup is ready, remove it from the heat. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired, and enjoy your Slim Quick Chicken Barley Soup!
Tips
- Prep Ahead: To save time, chop all your vegetables and dice the chicken breast in advance. Store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to cook.
- Choose Quality Broth: The flavor of your soup largely depends on the quality of the chicken broth. Opt for low-sodium broth to control the saltiness and enhance the taste.
- Customize Your Veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for extra nutrition and flavor. Just make sure to adjust cooking times accordingly.
- Cook Barley to Perfection: Keep an eye on the barley as it cooks. If you prefer it a bit firmer, taste it a few minutes before the suggested cooking time.
- Garnish for Flair: Serve your soup with a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or thyme to add a pop of color and freshness.
- Leftover Magic: This soup stores well in the fridge for up to 3 days, and the flavors only get better over time. Reheat gently on the stove for a quick meal!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 25g
Fat: 6g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 65mg
