Crock Pot Chicken Barley Soup
Cozy Up with Crock Pot Chicken Barley Soup: The Ultimate Comfort Food
When the weather turns chilly, there’s nothing quite like a warm, hearty soup to nourish the soul. And if you’re looking for a recipe that’s both delicious and incredibly easy, look no further than our Crock Pot Chicken Barley Soup! This isn’t just a soup; it’s a hug in a bowl.
This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights. Simply toss all the ingredients into your slow cooker, and let it work its magic. The result? Tender chicken, perfectly cooked barley, and a flavorful broth packed with veggies. It’s a complete meal that the whole family will love.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Effortless: Minimal prep time and hands-off cooking.
- Healthy & Hearty: Packed with protein, fiber, and nutrients.
- Flavorful: A comforting blend of chicken, barley, and vegetables.
- Customizable: Easily adjust the veggies to your liking.
Tips for the Best Soup:
- Barley Choice: We recommend pearled barley for a quicker cooking time. If using hulled barley, you may need to increase the cooking time.
- Chicken Thighs: While the recipe calls for chicken breasts, you can substitute boneless, skinless chicken thighs for an even richer flavor.
- Vegetable Variations: Feel free to add other vegetables like diced potatoes, peas, or green beans.
- Herb Power: Experiment with different herbs like thyme or parsley for a unique flavor profile.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve this soup with a side of crusty bread for dipping, or a simple green salad. A dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of fresh rosemary or whole wheat tortilla strips add a lovely finishing touch.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I make this soup ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! This soup tastes even better the next day. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Q: Can I freeze this soup?
A: Yes, you can! Let the soup cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. It will keep in the freezer for up to 2 months.
Q: Is this soup gluten-free?
A: Barley contains gluten, so this recipe is not naturally gluten-free. You can substitute rice or quinoa for the barley to make it gluten-free.
Q: What kind of chicken broth should I use?
A: Low-sodium chicken broth is recommended so you can control the saltiness of the soup. You can also use homemade chicken broth for an even richer flavor.
Q: Can I use a different type of onion?
A: Yes! Yellow, white, or red onions all work well in this recipe. Choose your favorite!
Crock Pot Chicken Barley Soup
Ingredients
- 1 lb Boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup Barley
- 8 cups Chicken broth
- 1 cup Carrots, sliced
- 1 cup Celery, sliced
- 1 cup Onion, chopped
- 1 tsp Salt or to taste
- 1 tsp Pepper or to taste
- 1 T Sour cream optional garnish
- 1 sprig Rosemary optional garnish
- As needed Whole wheat tortilla strips optional garnish
Instructions
- Place chicken, barley, chicken broth, carrots, celery, and onion in a crock pot.
- Cook on Low for 6 hours.
- Remove the chicken, shred it, and return it to the crock pot.
- Add salt and pepper to taste.
- Top with sour cream, rosemary, and whole wheat tortilla strips, if desired.
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