Quick and easy way to prepare chicken thighs for a simple meal or to use later as cooked chicken in more elaborate and flavorful recipes. (I did this to get the chicken cooked before it spoiled!)

Recipe Ingredients for Braised chicken thighs with barley

4	tbsp. olive oil
240	grams chicken thighs, raw, boneless, skinless (equivalent to six 40-gram thighs)
1	tbsp onion powder
1	tsp. garlic & herb seasoning
2	cups water
1/4	cup barley

Recipe Directions for Braised chicken thighs with barley

1. Heat oil at medium low heat in large, heavy pot (I used a Dutch oven).
   
   
2. Wipe the raw, boneless, skinless chicken thighs dry and then place carefully in the hot oil; turn so both sides are moist.
   
   
3. Increase heat to medium and sprinkle the onion power and garlic & herb seasoning over the chicken pieces. Cover and cook about five minutes.
   
   
4. Remove cover, turn each piece with two forks to control placement; push around in the oil remaining to avoid excessive sticking of the meat to the bottom of the pot. Recover and brown second side 5 minutes.
   
   
5. When the meat is browned, add in the water and stir; you may need to use a wooden spoon to scrape off any stuck pieces from the bottom of the pot. With the water added, you can get the bottom smooth again for next step.
   
   
6. While the water is coming to a boil, sprinkle the barley into the liquid around the edges of the pot and between the chicken pieces.
   
   
7. When the liquid is bubbling, lower heat to medium low, cover pot, and simmer (braise) for at least 30 minutes, turning the chicken pieces occasionally to avoid sticking.
   
   
8. If liquid is absorbed too quickly, add more water and continue slow cooking, covered.
   
   
9. When the barley is fully cooked, most of liquid is absorbed, and meat is tender, turn off heat and serve warm.
   
   
10. Makes 6 servings with one thigh per serving.
    
    
11. Serve with tossed salad greens for a simple, balanced meal.
    
    

Categories

Chicken, Main Dish, Braise, Saute

Health Information

Nutrition Grade 96% confidence

Good points Low in sodium Very low in sugar High in niacin High in selenium