Hearty and Delicious Chicken with Barley Soup

Warm up with a bowl of this hearty and flavorful chicken with barley soup. Packed with tender chicken, wholesome vegetables, and savory herbs, this soup is perfect for chilly nights or when you're in need of some comfort food. The combination of chicken and barley creates a rich and filling base, while the addition of carrots, celery, and onions adds depth of flavor and nutrition. Serve this soup with a side of crusty bread for a complete meal that will warm your soul.

Ingredients

• 2 pounds bone-in chicken pieces
• 1 cup pearl barley
• 2 carrots, peeled and diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 1 onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 8 cups chicken broth
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Chopped fresh parsley for garnish

Directions

1. In a large pot, heat some oil over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook until browned on all sides. Remove the chicken from the pot and set aside.
2. In the same pot, add the diced carrots, celery, onion, and garlic. Cook until the vegetables are softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the pearl barley, chicken broth, bay leaf, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper to the pot. Bring to a boil.
4. Reduce the heat to low and add the browned chicken back to the pot. Cover and simmer for 45 minutes to 1 hour, or until the chicken is cooked through and the barley is tender.
5. Once the chicken is cooked, remove the bones and shred the meat. Discard the bones and return the shredded chicken to the pot.
6. Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning if needed. Remove the bay leaf.
7. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with chopped fresh parsley. Serve hot with crusty bread.
8. Enjoy this comforting and delicious chicken with barley soup!

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