Hey there, friend! Today, I’m sharing something truly special from my kitchen to yours: Air Fryer Chicken Barley. This recipe is one of those comforting, heartwarming dishes that reminds me of cozy family dinners when everyone gathers around the table, laughing and sharing stories from the day. There’s something magical about a meal that brings people together, and this one does just that. With simple ingredients and the trusty air fryer, you’ll have a meal that feels both hearty and nourishing, perfect for any night of the week.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: With just 10 minutes of prep time and 25 minutes of cooking, you’ll have a delicious meal on the table in no time. The air fryer speeds up cooking without sacrificing flavor or texture. You can even prep the ingredients the night before to save time on busy evenings.
- Family-Friendly: This dish is designed to bring everyone together. Kids and adults alike will enjoy the flavors and textures. The mild seasonings appeal to even the pickiest eaters, yet they’re flavorful enough for foodies. You might find your kids asking for seconds!
- Nutritious and Filling: Packed with protein from the chicken and fiber from the barley, this meal is satisfying and wholesome. The combination of grains and lean protein makes it a balanced meal that keeps energy levels stable. It’s perfect for those who are health-conscious but don’t want to compromise on taste.
- Minimal Cleanup: Thanks to the air fryer, you won’t be left with a pile of dirty pots and pans. Just a few easy-to-clean items and you’re done! This convenience makes it perfect for busy weeknights, so you can spend more time with family and less time cleaning.
- Versatile: You can tweak the seasonings or add vegetables based on what’s in your fridge, making it adaptable to your family’s tastes. Try adding bell peppers or mushrooms for a twist. You can also spice it up with some chili flakes if you like a bit of heat.
The Recipe
Prep time: 10 minutes | Cook time: 25 minutes | Temperature: 375°F | Servings: 4
Ingredients:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1 cup pearl barley
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup carrots, diced
- 1 cup celery, diced
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
- Rinse and Drain: Start by rinsing the pearl barley under cold water and then drain it well. This helps get rid of any excess starch and keeps the barley from getting too sticky. Properly rinsing the barley also helps it cook evenly and prevents it from clumping together.
- Season the Chicken: In a medium bowl, mix the chicken thighs with olive oil, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper. This simple marinade infuses the chicken with flavor. Allow it to sit for a few minutes if you have time; this will further enhance the flavors. If you prefer, you can marinate the chicken in the fridge for up to 24 hours for an even deeper flavor infusion.
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Set your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and let it preheat for a few minutes. Preheating ensures that the chicken cooks evenly and achieves a nice, crispy exterior. This step is crucial for achieving that perfect balance of crispy outside and juicy inside.
- Cook the Chicken: Place the seasoned chicken thighs in the air fryer basket and cook for 15 minutes. They should be golden brown and juicy. Check for doneness by ensuring the internal temperature reaches 165°F. If you’re using larger chicken pieces, you may need to adjust the cooking time slightly.
- Prepare the Barley Mixture: While the chicken is cooking, combine the rinsed barley, chicken broth, diced onion, garlic, carrots, and celery in a separate bowl. This mixture absorbs the flavors of the broth, creating a delicious base for the chicken. Feel free to add a bay leaf for additional flavor, just remember to remove it before serving.
- Combine and Cook: After 15 minutes, remove the chicken from the air fryer and set it aside. Place the barley mixture into the air fryer basket, then nestle the chicken thighs on top. Cook for an additional 10 minutes. This allows the chicken juices to blend with the barley, enriching its taste.
- Check and Finish: Check the barley for doneness; it should be tender and have absorbed most of the liquid. If needed, cook for an additional 2-5 minutes. This step ensures the grains are perfectly cooked and not mushy, giving you the ideal texture.
- Serve: Remove from the air fryer, fluff the barley with a fork, and serve hot. Letting it rest for a few minutes allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Serve directly from the basket to keep it simple and rustic, making it an easy and charming presentation.
Helpful Tip: For an extra burst of flavor, you can add a squeeze of lemon juice or a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or basil before serving. This brightens the dish and adds a fresh element, enhancing the overall dining experience.
Kitchen Tools You’ll Need
- Air Fryer: Your trusty appliance for achieving crispy chicken and perfectly cooked barley. It’s energy-efficient and reduces cooking time significantly. Make sure your air fryer is large enough to accommodate the ingredients without overcrowding for best results.
- Mixing Bowls: For marinating the chicken and combining the barley mixture. Using bowls of different sizes can help with organizing your prep work. Consider using glass or metal bowls for easy cleaning.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: To ensure you get the right amount of each ingredient. Precision in measurements ensures perfect texture and flavor balance. Opt for a set that includes both metric and US measurements for versatility.
- Knife and Cutting Board: For dicing the onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. A sharp knife and a sturdy cutting board make prep work efficient and safe. Regularly sharpen your knife for best performance.
- Fork: To fluff the barley before serving. Fluffing separates the grains, making the texture light and airy. A large serving fork can make this task even easier.
The Benefits of Each Ingredient
- Chicken Thighs: These are juicy and tender, providing a rich source of protein. They are more forgiving than chicken breasts, staying moist even if cooked slightly longer. Opt for organic or free-range chicken for a healthier choice.
- Pearl Barley: A whole grain that is high in fiber and keeps you full longer. It has a lovely chewy texture that complements the tender chicken. Barley is also known for its heart-healthy benefits, making it a great addition to your diet.
- Chicken Broth: Adds depth of flavor and keeps the barley moist as it cooks. Opt for a low-sodium version to control the saltiness of your dish. Homemade broth can add an even richer taste if you have the time to make it.
- Onion, Garlic, Carrots, and Celery: These aromatic vegetables are classic for adding flavor and nutrients. They form a “mirepoix,” a base that enriches the dish. These vegetables are also rich in vitamins and minerals, boosting the nutritional profile of the meal.
- Dried Thyme and Paprika: They offer a warm, earthy flavor that complements the chicken wonderfully. The spices are subtle yet enhance the overall taste. Smoked paprika can be used for a slightly different, deeper flavor profile.
- Olive Oil: Adds healthy fats and helps the seasonings stick to the chicken. It also aids in creating a crispy exterior on the chicken thighs. Using extra virgin olive oil provides additional antioxidants and health benefits.
What to Serve With This Dish
This Air Fryer Chicken Barley is a complete meal on its own, but if you’re looking to add something extra, here are a few suggestions:
- Green Salad: A simple side salad with a light vinaigrette pairs nicely, adding freshness to your meal. Consider using mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and cucumber for a refreshing crunch. A sprinkle of feta cheese or a handful of nuts can add texture and flavor.
- Crusty Bread: Serve with a slice of warm, crusty bread to soak up any remaining broth. A baguette or sourdough would be perfect. To elevate the bread, you can lightly toast it and rub with a garlic clove for extra flavor.
- Steamed Vegetables: Broccoli or green beans would be a great addition for extra greens. Lightly steaming retains their vibrant color and crunch. Drizzle with a touch of olive oil and a sprinkle of sea salt for enhanced taste.
Storage & Leftover Tips
If you find yourself with leftovers, you’re in luck! This dish stores beautifully.
- Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors meld and deepen over time, making it even more delicious. Ensure the dish cools completely before refrigerating to maintain its quality.
- Reheat: Warm up in the microwave or a skillet on the stovetop until heated through. Add a splash of chicken broth if it seems dry. Stir occasionally to heat evenly. Reheating in a skillet can help retain the texture better than a microwave.
- Freeze: You can also freeze it for up to a month. Just make sure to thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating. Freeze in individual portions for quick meals. Label the containers with the date to keep track of storage time.
Enjoying this dish the next day gives the flavors even more time to develop, making it even tastier!
I hope you and your family enjoy this Air Fryer Chicken Barley as much as we do. It’s a dish that brings warmth and comfort to our home, and I’m thrilled to share it with you. If you’re looking for more cozy recipes, don’t forget to check out my Creamy Chicken Pasta and Easy Beef Stew for more family-friendly meals. Remember, the best meals are the ones shared with loved ones. Happy cooking!
Air Fryer Chicken Barley
A hearty and healthy meal combining tender chicken and pearl barley cooked to perfection in an air fryer.
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Rinse the pearl barley under cold water and drain.
- In a medium bowl, mix the chicken thighs with olive oil, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
- Place the seasoned chicken thighs in the air fryer basket and cook for 15 minutes.
- While the chicken is cooking, combine the rinsed barley, chicken broth, diced onion, garlic, carrots, and celery in a separate bowl.
- After 15 minutes, remove the chicken from the air fryer and set aside. Place the barley mixture into the air fryer basket.
- Nestle the chicken thighs on top of the barley mixture. Cook for an additional 10 minutes.
- Check the barley for doneness; it should be tender and have absorbed most of the liquid. If necessary, cook for an additional 2-5 minutes.
- Remove from the air fryer, fluff the barley with a fork, and serve hot.
Notes
Let the dish rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld. You can also add some fresh herbs for garnish to enhance the flavor.