Easy Crockpot Chicken and Barley Stew for Simple Weeknight Dinners Tips, FAQ & printable recipe

Tips for success

For a deeper flavor profile, consider browning the chicken pieces in a skillet over medium-high heat with a teaspoon of oil before adding them to the slow cooker.

While not strictly necessary, this step adds a layer of complexity and a beautiful golden color to the meat. If you choose to sear the chicken, ensure you deglaze the pan with a splash of the broth to capture any flavorful browned bits from the bottom of the skillet.

Adjust the seasoning to your personal preference only after the stew has finished cooking. Taste the broth carefully and add a pinch of kosher salt or freshly cracked black pepper if needed. Since different brands of chicken broth vary in their sodium content, it is best to start with a lower-sodium variety and adjust the salt level at the very end to prevent the stew from becoming overly salty during the long cooking process.

Variations

• Herbed Chicken and Barley: Add two sprigs of fresh thyme or a teaspoon of dried rosemary to the slow cooker along with the broth. These herbs pair perfectly with the earthy mushrooms and provide a fragrant, aromatic lift to the finished stew.
• Creamy Chicken and Barley: Stir in a quarter-cup of heavy cream or sour cream just before serving. This variation adds a luxurious, velvety texture that contrasts beautifully with the chewiness of the pearl barley and the tenderness of the chicken.

Storage and make-ahead

Fridge

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezer

Store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Reheat

Reheat on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Add a splash of broth if necessary.

Allow any leftovers to cool to room temperature for no more than 2 hours before transferring them to an airtight container. This helps prevent bacterial growth while ensuring the food remains safe.

Once cooled, store the container in the refrigerator, where the stew will stay fresh for up to 3 days. When ready to enjoy again, gently reheat the portions on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a tiny splash of water if the stew has thickened too much in the fridge.

This stew is an excellent candidate for making ahead, as the flavors often improve after sitting in the refrigerator overnight. You can prepare the entire dish, let it cool completely, and store it in the fridge.

When you are ready to serve, simply reheat the desired amount on the stovetop over low heat until it is piping hot. It is a fantastic option for a stress-free dinner that requires almost no work when you are ready to eat.

Serving ideas

Serve this comforting stew hot in individual shallow bowls to showcase the beautiful texture of the chicken, vegetables, and barley. A simple garnish of freshly chopped parsley or chives can provide a bright, fresh finish that complements the earthy tones of the mushrooms.

The stew is substantial enough to be served on its own, but it also pairs wonderfully with a side of crusty bread or a crisp green salad to round out the meal.

Because the stew is quite thick and hearty, ensure each serving includes a generous portion of the broth, which is packed with flavor. If you find the stew has become very thick upon reheating, stir in a small amount of warm water or additional broth to reach your desired consistency. Serve immediately while it is steaming hot to enjoy the best texture of the tender chicken and perfectly cooked barley.

Frequently asked questions

Recipe card

Easy Crockpot Chicken and Barley Stew for Simple Weeknight Dinners

Prep 10 minCook 4 hRest 5 minTotal 4 h 15 minServes 4

Ingredients

• 1 lb boneless skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-size pieces
• 2 medium carrots, sliced into coins
• 8 oz mushrooms, sliced
• 1/2 cup pearl barley
• 4 cups chicken broth

Instructions

1. Place the bite-size pieces of chicken thigh into the bottom of the slow cooker insert. Ensure the meat is evenly distributed across the base to allow for consistent cooking.
2. Scatter the sliced carrot coins and mushrooms over the chicken. Sprinkle the pearl barley evenly over the vegetables, ensuring it is well distributed throughout the pot.
3. Pour the chicken broth over the ingredients in the slow cooker. Cover with the lid and set the slow cooker to cook on high for 4 hours or low for 6 to 8 hours. Before serving, verify the chicken has reached an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Let the stew rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Contains: gluten

Estimated nutrition per serving

Calories

320

Protein

24.5 g

Carbohydrates

35.2 g

Fat

8.5 g

Fiber

6.8 g

Sugar

3.2 g

Sodium

680 mg

Automatic estimate from the ingredient list, not laboratory-verified.