Soothing Turmeric Chicken With Pearl Barley (Printable)

Golden soup with tender chicken, pearl barley, and warming turmeric for ultimate comfort and nourishment.

# What You'll Need:

→ Protein

01 - 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 14 oz), diced

→ Grains

02 - 3/4 cup pearl barley, rinsed

→ Vegetables

03 - 2 medium carrots, peeled and diced
04 - 2 celery stalks, diced
05 - 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
06 - 3 garlic cloves, minced
07 - 1 small zucchini, diced

→ Broth and Seasonings

08 - 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth
09 - 1 1/2 teaspoons ground turmeric
10 - 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
11 - 1 teaspoon sea salt
12 - 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
13 - 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
14 - 1 tablespoon olive oil

→ Garnishes

15 - 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
16 - Lemon wedges for serving

# Preparation Steps:

01 - Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion, carrots, and celery, cooking for 5 minutes until vegetables begin to soften.
02 - Stir in minced garlic, turmeric, cumin, and thyme. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
03 - Add diced chicken and cook for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until beginning to turn opaque.
04 - Pour in chicken broth and add pearl barley, salt, and black pepper. Stir thoroughly to combine all ingredients.
05 - Bring soup to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 35 minutes, stirring occasionally.
06 - Add diced zucchini, cover, and simmer for 10 to 15 minutes until barley is tender and chicken is fully cooked through.
07 - Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Ladle into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve with lemon wedges.

# Expert Suggestions:

01 -
  • Anti-Inflammatory Benefits: Turmeric and black pepper work together to provide a powerful health boost.
  • Satisfying Texture: Pearl barley adds a wonderful, chewy consistency that makes the soup incredibly filling.
  • Easy Prep: A straightforward one-pot method that is perfect for beginners and busy weeknights.
  • High Protein: Lean chicken breast ensures a balanced and restorative meal.
02 -
  • Broth Quality: If using store-bought chicken broth, always check the label for potential allergens like gluten, soy, or celery.
  • Perfect Grains: Simmering the barley slowly allows it to reach the perfect 'al dente' texture without becoming mushy.
  • Zucchini Timing: Adding the zucchini later in the process ensures it stays tender-crisp and bright.
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