Instructions

  1. In a 4-qt saucepan or Dutch oven, cook onion and garlic in oil till onion is tender.
  2. Add remaining ingredients except chicken.
  3. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low.
  4. Cover and simmer 40 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add more water or stock if it seems too thick.
  5. Add cooked chicken; continue simmering 5-10 minutes till chicken is heated through and barley is tender.
  6. Taste to adjust seasonings - I'm sure I add more chili powder and cumin than this calls for, maybe a touch of oregano.
  7. Salt is up to you - always easier to add it at the end than start with too much.