Imagine a steaming bowl of hearty soup that combines the bold, fiery flavors of Cajun cuisine with the wholesome goodness of tender chicken, nutritious barley, and farm-fresh vegetables. This Cajun Chicken Barley Vegetable Soup isn't just a meal—it's a culinary adventure that will transport your taste buds to the vibrant streets of Louisiana while providing a comforting, nutritious dinner that'll have your family begging for seconds!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: Cajun
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken breast, diced
- 1 cup barley
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp Cajun seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large soup pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add diced chicken and season with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Cook chicken until golden brown and no longer pink in the center, approximately 5-6 minutes. Remove chicken and set aside on a plate.
- In the same pot, add chopped onions, carrots, and celery. Sauté vegetables until they begin to soften, about 4-5 minutes.
- Add minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds, stirring to prevent burning.
- Pour in chicken broth and add barley to the pot. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer.
- Cover the pot and let the barley cook for approximately 25-30 minutes, or until barley is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.
- Return the cooked chicken to the pot and stir to combine. Simmer for an additional 3-4 minutes to reheat the chicken.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or Cajun seasoning as needed.
- Remove from heat and let the soup rest for 5 minutes before serving hot.
Tips
- Choose high-quality Cajun seasoning for authentic flavor—look for blends with paprika, cayenne, garlic powder, and herbs.
- For extra depth, consider browning the chicken thoroughly to develop rich, caramelized flavors before adding vegetables.
- Use pearl barley for the best texture, and rinse it before cooking to remove excess starch.
- Don't rush the barley cooking process—low and slow ensures perfectly tender grains.
- For a spicier soup, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or increase the Cajun seasoning.
- If you prefer a thicker soup, let it simmer uncovered for the last few minutes to reduce liquid.
- Garnish with fresh chopped parsley or green onions for a burst of color and fresh flavor.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 30g
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 75mg
