Chicken Livers And Barley
Creamy chicken livers paired with hearty barley and savory mushrooms create a comforting dish rich in flavors, perfect for a satisfying family meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Heat 1/4 cup butter in a saucepan.
- Add minced onion and cook for 2 to 3 minutes.
- Add sliced mushrooms and cook for 5 minutes.
- Add medium pearl barley and brown lightly.
- Stir in chicken bouillon.
- Cover and simmer for 25 minutes or until barley is tender and liquid is absorbed.
- Saute chicken livers in the remaining butter.
- Season to taste with salt and pepper.
- Stir the cooked chicken livers into the barley mixture.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding garlic and herbs like thyme or parsley. If you don't have chicken bouillon, vegetable broth can be a suitable substitute. You can also swap out barley for quinoa or farro for a different texture. Ensure the chicken livers are cleaned well to avoid any bitter taste. If you're looking for a more substantial side, serve with crusty bread or over a bed of greens.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this dish warm, garnished with fresh herbs for a pop of color. It pairs beautifully with roasted vegetables or a simple salad for a balanced meal. For a comforting twist, consider serving alongside crusty bread or over creamy polenta. This dish is hearty enough to stand on its own but can also complement any of your favorite chicken recipes.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent drying out. Alternatively, you can microwave in short intervals, stirring often until heated through. This dish can also be frozen for up to 2 months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chicken Livers And Barley contains roughly 1229 calories, with 7g protein, 26g carbohydrates, and 123g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin D (157% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 3000mg per serving (130% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen chicken livers for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken livers, but make sure to thaw them completely before cooking to ensure even cooking. It’s best to thaw them in the refrigerator overnight or under cold water. Pat them dry before sautéing to avoid excess moisture.
What can I use instead of barley?
If you prefer a gluten-free option or simply want a different texture, you can substitute barley with quinoa or brown rice. Keep in mind that cooking times may vary, so adjust the liquid and cooking duration accordingly to ensure the grains are tender.
Is this dish suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! This dish is great for meal prep as it reheats well and flavors improve over time. Prepare a larger batch, store in portions, and enjoy throughout the week. Just follow the storage tips provided to keep it fresh and delicious.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).