If you’re looking for an easy way to spoil your pup with something extra special, this Instant Pot chicken and barley dog food is just the thing. It’s warm, hearty, packed with goodness, and it’s made with real ingredients you can feel great about. Whether you want to make a special homemade meal or just love cooking for your dog (hi, fellow dog parent!), this one’s a no-fuss, tail-wagging winner.
Why You and Your Dog Will Love This Recipe
Making a homemade meal for your dog isn’t just about nutrition – it’s an act of love. Watching them lick the bowl clean is knowing you’ve made something they thoroughly enjoy. And here are some more reasons this will be a go-to recipe:
It’s super easy to make. Let the Instant Pot do the heavy lifting! Just toss in the ingredients, press a button, and you’re on your way to a homemade doggy dinner with zero hassle.
It’s made with wholesome ingredients. Simple, real food. No fillers, no byproducts – just chicken, barley, and veggies. Your pup gets quality nutrients, and you get peace of mind.
You can customize it. Got a picky eater or a fridge full of veggies to use up? No problem! This recipe is easy to tweak with whatever’s dog-safe and on hand.
It smells amazing while it cooks. Bonus perk: your kitchen is going to smell like cozy comfort food. Your dog will probably stand guard by the pot the whole time!
Ingredients and What They Bring to the Dish
This chicken and barley dog food is made with simple, nourishing ingredients. Here’s a little about each one:
- Boneless Skinless Chicken Thighs: A rich source of protein and essential amino acids that help build strong muscles. Thighs also have more moisture and flavor than breasts, making them extra palatable for dogs.
- Pearled Barley: A fiber-packed whole grain that supports digestion and helps keep your dog feeling full and satisfied. It also contains B vitamins and minerals like selenium and manganese.
- Carrots: Loaded with beta-carotene (a precursor to vitamin A), plus fiber and antioxidants. Great for vision, skin, and immune health.
- Frozen Green Peas: A good source of plant-based protein, fiber, and nutrients like vitamins A, C, and K.
- Water: The base that helps cook everything to soft, bite-friendly perfection.
Ingredient Substitutions
Need to swap something out? You’ve got options!
- Chicken thighs: You can use boneless skinless chicken breasts if that’s what you have on hand.
- Carrots: Try sweet potato or butternut squash for a softer texture and slightly sweeter flavor.
- Peas: Broccoli, green beans, or zucchini are all great dog-safe veggie alternatives.
How to Make Chicken and Barley Dog Food in an Instant Pot
Making your own dog food might sound like a big task, but with the Instant Pot, it’s a breeze. Here’s how it’s done:
- Pour the water into the Instant Pot. Add the chopped carrots, barley, and chicken thighs.
- Secure the lid and select the PORRIDGE setting (or manual HIGH pressure for 20 minutes).
- Once cooking is complete, allow the pressure to release naturally.
- Carefully open the lid and remove the chicken. Shred or slice it into bite-sized pieces.
- Return the chicken to the pot and stir in the frozen peas.
- Let it cool completely before serving to your dog.
How to Store the Food and How Long It Will Last
Storing: Once cooled, store the food in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Freezing: Scoop individual portions into freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.
Reheating: If needed, warm slightly in the microwave – just until lukewarm. Never serve it hot!
Can people eat this food?
Yes, everything in this dog food recipe is human-safe! Give it a taste and you might like it. You’ll probably want to add a pinch of salt and pepper for yourself. Think of it as a chicken and barley stew.
Serving Amount
How much you feed your dog depends on their size, activity level, and overall health. A general guide is 1 cup of food for every 20 pounds of body weight.
Always check with your vet to get portion recommendations tailored to your dog.
Is this recipe suitable for puppies?
This recipe uses gentle, wholesome ingredients, but puppies have unique nutritional needs. Before feeding homemade meals to a puppy, talk to your vet to make sure it supports their growth and development.
More Dog Food Recipes
Do you want to make some more food for your dog? Try these recipes:
- Chicken Stew
- Ground Chicken Dog Food
- Instant Pot Chicken and Rice
- Instant Pot Lamb Dog Food
- Slow Cooker Chicken and Rice
Find lots of easy recipes for homemade dog food right here on Spoiled Hounds.
Disclaimer
Please note that I am not a veterinarian or canine nutritionist. Before starting your dog on homemade food, consult with your veterinarian to ensure it meets their specific dietary needs. This recipe is nutritious and safe but is not intended to be a complete meal replacement. It lacks certain essential vitamins and nutrients that dogs require for a balanced diet.
Transitioning to homemade food will likely necessitate additional nutrient supplements. Always speak with your veterinarian to determine the appropriate foods and supplements for your dog’s breed, weight, age, and health requirements.
Instant Pot Chicken and Barley Dog Food
Ingredients
- 3 cups water
- 1 cup pearled barley
- 1 cup chopped carrots
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken thighs or breasts
- 1 cup frozen green peas
Instructions
- Pour water into an Instant Pot. Add carrots, barley and chicken. Place the lid on the pot and use the PORRIDGE setting or manual HIGH for 20 minutes. When finished cooking, do a natural release.
- Once the pressure is released, remove the chicken and shred or slice it. Add the chicken back to the pot along with the frozen peas. Stir well.
- Allow to cool completely before serving.
Looking forward to making this recipe for my 2 shih tzu girls. Thank you