Looking for an easy dinner idea that’s not only delicious but also packed with nutrition? Try this Orange Barley Chicken recipe! Combining the tangy sweetness of orange with tender chicken and hearty barley, this dish is the perfect balance of flavor and health. Whether you're meal-prepping or looking for a wholesome family meal, this recipe is sure to satisfy your cravings for a healthy chicken recipe.

Orange Barley Chicken


Ingredients

To make this Orange Barley Chicken, you'll need simple and wholesome ingredients:

For the Chicken and Barley:

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 cup pearl barley, rinsed
  • 2 cups chicken broth (low-sodium recommended)
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • Zest of 1 orange

For the Orange Sauce:

  • 1/2 cup freshly squeezed orange juice (about 2 oranges)
  • 2 tablespoons honey (or maple syrup for a natural sweetener)
  • 1 tablespoon low-sodium soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
  • 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water (for thickening)

Optional Garnishes:

  • Fresh parsley, chopped
  • Thinly sliced orange wedges
  • Toasted almond slivers for crunch

Instructions

This easy dinner idea comes together in just a few simple steps:

Step 1 – Cook the Barley

  1. Rinse the pearl barley under cold water to remove excess starch.
  2. Add the barley, chicken broth, and a pinch of salt to a medium saucepan. Bring to a boil over medium heat.
  3. Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer, cover, and cook for 25-30 minutes or until the barley is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed. Fluff with a fork and set aside.

Step 2 – Prepare the Chicken

  1. While the barley cooks, season the chicken breasts on both sides with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
  2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
  3. Sear the chicken breasts in the skillet for 3-4 minutes on each side, until golden brown. They don’t need to be fully cooked at this point. Remove the chicken and set aside.

Step 3 – Make the Orange Sauce

  1. Lower the heat to medium and pour the orange juice, honey, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, and grated ginger into the same skillet.
  2. Stir well and allow the sauce to simmer for 3-4 minutes. Mix the cornstarch slurry into the sauce and cook for an additional 2 minutes until thickened.

Step 4 – Combine and Finish

  1. Return the seared chicken to the skillet, spooning the orange sauce over the pieces. Cover and cook on low for 8-10 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F).
  2. Stir the cooked barley into the skillet to coat it lightly with the orange sauce or serve it on the side as a base.

Tips for Serving & Variations

  • Serving Ideas
    Serve your Orange Barley Chicken garnished with fresh parsley, a sprinkle of orange zest, or almond slivers for added texture. Pair with steamed broccoli, green beans, or a mixed greens salad for a complete meal.

  • Variations

    • Swap the chicken breasts for chicken thighs if you prefer a juicier option.
    • Use quinoa or couscous instead of barley for a lighter alternative.
    • Add roasted carrots or butternut squash to the dish for a pop of color and sweetness.

  • Meal Prep Friendly
    This dish stores well in airtight containers, making it an excellent choice for your weekly meal prep. Refrigerate for up to 4 days or freeze portions for up to 2 months.

This healthy chicken recipe is not just a feast for your taste buds but also a nourishing dish packed with protein, fiber, and vitamins. Perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, the Orange Barley Chicken is a flavorful addition to your repertoire of easy dinner ideas. Enjoy!

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