Fall Crockpot Chicken and Barley Stew

As the leaves begin to change and the air grows crisp, there's something inherently comforting about a warm, hearty meal. Harvest Chicken & Barley Delight is a dish that perfectly captures the essence of the fall season. This wholesome recipe combines tender chicken with the nutty flavor of barley and an assortment of fresh vegetables, resulting in a comforting dish that is both nutritious and satisfying. It’s an ideal choice for family gatherings or cozy dinners, providing the warmth and comfort that we often seek during the cooler months.

Warm up this fall with Harvest Chicken & Barley Delight, a comforting and nutritious dish perfect for cool evenings. This recipe features tender boneless chicken thighs, chewy pearl barley, and fresh vegetables like carrots and butternut squash, all cooked slowly to meld delicious flavors. Not only is this meal easy to prepare in a slow cooker, but it's also packed with health benefits. Enjoy this hearty stew with loved ones and create lasting memories around the dinner table.

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Ingredients

1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces

1 cup pearl barley, rinsed

4 cups chicken broth (low sodium)

1 medium onion, diced

2 cloves garlic, minced

3 medium carrots, sliced

2 celery stalks, chopped

1 cup butternut squash, peeled and diced

1 cup green beans, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces

1 teaspoon dried thyme

1 teaspoon dried rosemary

1 bay leaf

Salt and pepper, to taste

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar (optional)

Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

Instructions

Sauté the Aromatics: In a skillet over medium heat, add 2 tablespoons of olive oil. When hot, add the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté until the onion is translucent, about 4-5 minutes. This step enhances the flavor of your stew.

Prepare the Crockpot: In your crockpot, add the chicken pieces, rinsed pearl barley, sliced carrots, chopped celery, diced butternut squash, green beans, dried thyme, dried rosemary, bay leaf, salt, and pepper.

Combine Ingredients: Pour in the sautéed onion and garlic mixture, followed by the chicken broth. Stir everything gently to combine all ingredients.

Slow Cook Time: Cover the crockpot and set it on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until the chicken is tender and the barley is cooked through.

Finishing Touches: About 30 minutes before serving, taste the stew and adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or a splash of balsamic vinegar for added depth of flavor.

Serve: Once cooked, remove the bay leaf and ladle the stew into bowls. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Enjoy your hearty meal!

Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 min | 6-8 hr | 6 servings