Indulge in the comforting flavors of a hearty Chicken and Barley Bake, a one-pot wonder that combines tender, golden-seared chicken thighs with nutty pearl barley and a medley of wholesome vegetables. Infused with aromatic herbs like thyme and rosemary, this dish is slow-baked in savory low-sodium chicken broth, allowing the barley to soak up all the rich, savory goodness. Perfect for cozy weeknight dinners or meal prepping, this recipe emphasizes simplicity while packing a punch of nutrition. With a garnish of fresh parsley for a vibrant finish, this oven-baked masterpiece delivers on both flavor and convenience. Keywords: chicken and barley bake, one-pot recipe, hearty dinner, pearl barley, baked chicken, healthy comfort food.
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat.
Season the chicken thighs with half of the salt and pepper, then sear them in the skillet for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove chicken from the skillet and set aside.
In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Sauté the chopped onion for 2-3 minutes until softened.
Add the minced garlic, carrots, and celery to the skillet. Cook for an additional 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Stir in the pearl barley, dried thyme, dried rosemary, and the remaining salt and pepper. Cook for 1-2 minutes to lightly toast the barley and enhance its flavor.
Pour in the chicken broth and stir to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
Place the seared chicken thighs on top of the barley and vegetable mixture. Cover the skillet with an oven-safe lid or tightly with aluminum foil.
Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the barley is tender and the chicken is cooked through to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Carefully remove the skillet from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving.
Calories |
1944 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 76.4 g | 98% | |
| Saturated Fat | 17.0 g | 85% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 2.7 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 436 mg | 145% | |
| Sodium | 3248 mg | 141% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 181.9 g | 66% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 37.3 g | 133% | |
| Total Sugars | 10.9 g | ||
| Protein | 130.1 g | 260% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 239 mg | 18% | |
| Iron | 10.9 mg | 61% | |
| Potassium | 2270 mg | 48% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.