Chicken And Barley Stew

Chicken And Barley Stew is a comforting and hearty dish that’s perfect for those cooler days when you need something warm and satisfying. This stew combines tender chicken, nutty barley, and a variety of vegetables in a savory broth that’s rich in flavor and nutrition. The barley adds a wonderful texture and absorbs the delicious broth, making each spoonful deeply flavorful. Slow-cooked to perfection, this stew is not only nourishing but also incredibly filling, making it an ideal meal for lunch or dinner. Serve it with crusty bread for an extra cozy experience.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 cup pearl barley, rinsed
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 carrots, sliced
• 2 celery stalks, sliced
• 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
• 1 large potato, diced
• 6 cups chicken broth
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1 tsp dried rosemary
• 1 bay leaf
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Ingredients: Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces and season with salt and pepper. Cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken and set it aside.
2. Sauté the Vegetables: In the same pot, add the chopped onion, garlic, carrots, celery, and mushrooms. Sauté until the vegetables are softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the Barley and Broth: Stir in the rinsed barley, diced potato, and the browned chicken. Add the chicken broth, dried thyme, dried rosemary, and bay leaf. Bring the mixture to a boil.
4. Simmer the Stew: Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let the stew simmer for about 45-60 minutes, or until the barley is tender and the stew has thickened. Stir occasionally and add more broth or water if needed.
5. Season and Serve: Remove the bay leaf and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to taste. Ladle the stew into bowls and garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired.

Chicken And Barley Stew is a deliciously warming dish that combines simple ingredients into a meal that’s both comforting and nutritious. Perfect for a cozy night in, this stew will quickly become a family favorite.