Instant Pot Chicken with Barley

This hearty and comforting dish combines tender chicken with wholesome barley, all cooked quickly in the Instant Pot for a flavorful meal. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something warm and satisfying without the wait.

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TIME55 min

SERVINGS4

RATING5.0 / 5

01 / WHAT YOU NEED

Ingredients

1 teaspoon vegetable oil 2 medium onions, chopped 4 stalks celery, diced 2 medium red bell peppers, chopped 4 (6 ounce) chicken breasts 1 teaspoon salt ½ teaspoon ground black pepper 1 (28 ounce) can diced tomatoes with juice 2 cups pearl barley, rinsed 1 (14.5 ounce) can chicken stock ½ teaspoon dried thyme

02 / HOW TO MAKE IT

Let's cook.

Step 1

Start by turning your Instant Pot to the sauté setting. Pour in a bit of oil, then add the chopped onions, celery, and bell peppers. Cook them until they’re nice and soft, which should take about 5 minutes.

02

Step 2

Next, season your chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then toss them into the pot. Add the diced tomatoes, pearl barley, chicken stock, and a few sprigs of thyme. Give everything a gentle stir.

03

Step 3

Seal the lid and set the Instant Pot to high pressure for 25 minutes. It will take around 10 to 15 minutes for the pressure to build up before the cooking time starts.

04

Step 4

When the timer goes off, carefully release the pressure using the quick-release method. Once it’s safe, open the lid and take the chicken out onto a cutting board. Shred the chicken using two forks, then stir it back into the pot to mix everything together.

03 / EXTRA DETAILS

Good to know.

Cook's tip

- Sear the chicken first to lock in juices and add extra flavor.
- Use low-sodium broth to control the salt level.
- Let the pressure release naturally for a few minutes to keep the barley from becoming mushy.

Why you’ll love it

This dish combines tender chicken and hearty barley for a comforting meal that cooks quickly in one pot. It’s perfect for busy weeknights and delivers great flavor with minimal effort.

Serving ideas

Serve this meal with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables to add some brightness. A squeeze of lemon or a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley can also enhance the flavors.

Storage & leftovers

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth if it seems dry. This dish also freezes well for up to 2 months.