Crockpot Chicken and Barley Soup Recipe

If you’re craving something heartwarming, wholesome, and oh-so-satisfying, you’ll absolutely adore this Crockpot Chicken and Barley Soup. Imagine tender chicken, nutty barley, and vibrant veggies slow-cooked to perfection, blending into a rich broth bursting with flavors. This soup is like a warm hug in a bowl—perfect for cozy evenings, busy weekdays, or anytime you want a comforting meal that’s both nourishing and easy to make. It’s a true crowd-pleaser and one of those recipes you’ll find yourself coming back to again and again.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering simple, fresh ingredients is the best part of making this Crockpot Chicken and Barley Soup. Each item is carefully chosen to add depth and texture—from the chewy barley to the tender chicken, and the medley of colorful vegetables that make the soup come alive.

• 1 1/2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs: Choose thighs for extra juiciness or breasts for a leaner bite.
• 6 cups chicken broth: Provides the savory base that ties every flavor together.
• 3/4 cup pearl barley, rinsed: Adds a hearty, chewy texture and wholesome nutrition.
• 1 cup diced carrots: Brings a touch of natural sweetness and vibrant color.
• 1 cup diced celery: Offers a mild crunch and aromatic freshness.
• 1 cup diced onion: Deepens the flavor with a subtle, savory bite.
• 2 garlic cloves, minced: Infuses the soup with a fragrant warmth.
• 1 tsp dried thyme: A herbaceous note that blends perfectly with chicken.
• 1 tsp dried parsley: Lends an earthy brightness to the overall taste.
• 1 bay leaf: Slowly releases its unique flavor while cooking.
• 1/2 tsp salt: Enhances all the flavors without overpowering them.
• 1/4 tsp black pepper: Adds just the right hint of spice.
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish): A fresh, colorful finishing touch that makes each bowl inviting.

How to Make Crockpot Chicken and Barley Soup

Step 1: Layer the Ingredients

The beauty of this recipe starts with throwing everything into the crockpot—no fuss, just simple layering. Begin by placing your chicken at the bottom, which ensures it cooks evenly and stays juicy. Then add in the chicken broth, barley, carrots, celery, onion, garlic, herbs, bay leaf, salt, and pepper. Give it a gentle stir just to combine, letting the ingredients nestle together while you set the cooker going.

Step 2: Cook the Soup

Cover your crockpot and choose your cooking speed—low for 6 to 7 hours or high for 3 to 4 hours. This slow simmer allows the chicken to become tender and the barley to completely soften, creating a luxurious, hearty broth that makes this soup stand out. The best part? The crockpot does all the work while you go about your day.

Step 3: Shred the Chicken

Once the cooking time is up, carefully remove the chicken from the pot. Using two forks, shred it finely so those tender pieces spread throughout the soup, enhancing every spoonful. Return the shredded chicken to the crockpot to mingle with the rest of the ingredients for a minute or two.

Step 4: Check and Adjust Seasoning

Give your soup a taste test and adjust the seasoning as needed—sometimes a pinch more salt or a crack of fresh pepper makes all the difference in rounding out the flavors. This step customizes the soup to your palate, making it truly your own.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Ladle the steaming Crockpot Chicken and Barley Soup into your favorite bowls. If you love a pop of color and fresh flavor, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley on top as a garnish. Now, dive in and savor the wholesome goodness!

How to Serve Crockpot Chicken and Barley Soup

Garnishes

A sprinkle of fresh parsley is a classic garnish that lifts the dish visually and aromatically. For a bit more, a squeeze of lemon juice or a dash of grated Parmesan can also brighten and deepen the flavor, making each bite exciting.

Side Dishes

This soup is wonderfully satisfying on its own but pairs beautifully with crusty bread, warm dinner rolls, or even a light side salad. The bread is perfect for dunking into the rich broth, while fresh greens balance the hearty textures and flavors.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, try serving the soup in hollowed-out bread bowls at your next gathering—everyone will love the rustic presentation! You can also top it with crispy bacon bits or a dollop of sour cream for extra indulgence.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Crockpot Chicken and Barley Soup keeps incredibly well in the fridge for up to 4 days. Store it in an airtight container to maintain freshness and prevent any flavors from mingling with other foods.

Freezing

This soup freezes beautifully, making it a fantastic meal prep option. Just cool it to room temperature, transfer it to a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty bags, and freeze for up to 3 months. Remember to leave some space for expansion!

Reheating

When you’re ready to enjoy the soup again, thaw overnight in the fridge or reheat directly from frozen on the stovetop. Warm it gently over medium heat, stirring occasionally until fully heated through. If the soup seems too thick after reheating, simply add a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen it up.

FAQs

Can I use other grains instead of barley?

Absolutely! While barley adds a lovely chewy texture and nutty flavor, you can substitute pearl wheat, brown rice, or even quinoa if you prefer. Just keep in mind that cooking times and liquid absorption may vary.

Is it better to use chicken breasts or thighs?

Both work really well. Chicken thighs tend to stay more juicy and flavorful after slow cooking, while breasts offer a leaner option. Choose based on your preference or what you have on hand.

Can I add other vegetables to this soup?

Definitely! Feel free to toss in diced potatoes, parsnips, or even leafy greens like spinach toward the end of cooking. This soup is versatile and welcomes extra veggies to boost nutrition and flavor.

Do I need to soak the barley before cooking?

No need to soak the pearl barley for this recipe since the long cooking time in the crockpot softens it nicely. Just be sure to rinse it well to remove any debris or dust before adding it.

How can I make this soup spicier?

Add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes when you layer the ingredients, or finish with a dash of hot sauce when serving. Both options will give your soup a lively kick without overwhelming its comforting flavors.

Final Thoughts

I can’t recommend this Crockpot Chicken and Barley Soup enough. It’s the kind of meal that fills your kitchen with irresistible aromas and makes your whole house feel cozy. Perfect for busy days or when you want to treat yourself to something nourishing and heartwarming, this soup is a keeper. Give it a try—you’ll fall in love with every comforting spoonful!

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