Savory Chicken Barley Soup Recipe for Weeknight Comfort - Perfect Savory 450

Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked shredded chicken (rotisserie or leftover)
• 6 cups chicken broth
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 cup pearl barley, rinsed
• 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional, for brightness)