Another pitfall I encountered was overcooking the barley. Keep an eye on the pot; it can go from perfectly chewy to mushy in no time. A good rule of thumb is to test it a few minutes before the suggested cooking time. If it’s still a little firm, that’s perfectly fine because it will continue to cook as it cools.
Finally, be cautious with the salt. Depending on the saltiness of your chicken broth, you may not need to add much, if any. It’s always best to start with a little and then taste before adding more. No one wants an overly salty soup, right?
Serving Suggestions
I love serving my Chicken Barley Soup with crusty bread or a simple garden salad. The crispy texture of the bread complements the soup beautifully, allowing for a delightful contrast. Sometimes, I’ll even make some homemade garlic knots to go alongside!
For a little extra kick, I like to drizzle a bit of chili oil or sprinkle grated Parmesan on top before serving. The added richness and spice elevate the soup to a whole new level that I absolutely enjoy, as do my family and friends!
And if you want to make it a heartier meal, a side of roasted vegetables is perfect. The sweet, caramelized flavors of roasted broccoli or carrots pair wonderfully with the soup’s warmth and comfort.
Variations & Customizations
One of the best things about Chicken Barley Soup is its versatility. If you’re looking to mix things up, feel free to swap out the chicken for turkey or even diced potatoes for a vegetarian version. If you have some leftover vegetables in the fridge, toss them in! Zucchini, spinach, or bell peppers can all add unique flavors and textures.
For a slight variation in taste, I’ve tried adding a splash of lemon juice or a tablespoon of soy sauce, which brightens the soup beautifully. You can also add some heat by including diced jalapeños or a pinch of red pepper flakes.
Finally, if you’re a fan of herbs, there’s no limit to how you can adapt this recipe. Adding fresh basil at the end or experimenting with different dried herbs like oregano or sage can transform the character of this soup, keeping your taste buds happy time after time.
How to Store, Freeze & Reheat
Storing any leftovers is easy! I simply let the soup cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It can be safely stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, so it makes a fantastic meal prep option. Just portion it out for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week.
If you have more than enough and want to make it last, the soup freezes wonderfully. I recommend freezing it in individual servings so you can pull just what you need. It will keep in the freezer for about 3 months. To freeze, just make sure to leave a bit of room in the container for expansion.
When it comes time to reheat, I usually take the soup out the night before and let it thaw in the fridge overnight. Then, I warm it gently on the stove or in the microwave until hot. The flavors are so good, you might even find it tastes better after freezing!
Conclusion
I hope you give this Chicken Barley Soup a try. It’s one of those recipes that, once you make it, becomes a beloved tradition in your kitchen. Whether you’re fighting off a cold, cozying up on a chilly evening, or simply looking for comfort food, this soup is here for you! Enjoy each comforting bowl – I know I certainly do!