If you’ve ever longed for a bowl of comfort that feels like a warm hug, this Chicken and Stars Soup Recipe might just become your new go-to. Imagine tender shredded chicken swimming alongside tiny star-shaped pasta in a flavorful broth, enriched with fresh vegetables and herbs. It’s simple, wholesome, and delights both kids and adults alike with its whimsical pasta and cozy taste. Perfect for chilly evenings or anytime you crave something nourishing that’s quick to make, this soup wraps deliciousness and heartwarming vibes into every spoonful.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Chicken and Stars Soup Recipe is in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a vital role, from creating a vibrant base to adding texture and subtle flavor layers, making this soup both satisfying and colorful.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: The perfect start for sautéing veggies with a hint of richness.
- 1 small onion, diced: Adds a sweet and aromatic depth when cooked down.
- 2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced: Bring a gentle natural sweetness and lovely color.
- 2 celery stalks, sliced: Give a nice crunch and earthy undertones.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the broth with a fragrant kick.
- 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth: The comforting liquid foundation that ties everything together.
- 1 cup cooked chicken breast, shredded: Adds protein and heartiness to every bite.
- 3/4 cup uncooked stelline (star pasta): The charming pasta shape that brings fun and texture.
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme: Offers a subtle earthy herbal note.
- 1/2 teaspoon dried parsley: Enhances freshness and color in the broth.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasonings to balance flavors.
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional): Adds a bright, zesty finish that lifts the whole soup.
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional): For that final pop of green and extra aroma.
How to Make Chicken and Stars Soup Recipe
Step 1: Sauté Your Veggies
Begin by heating olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Toss in the diced onion, carrots, and celery, and let them soften and blend their flavors for about five minutes. This gentle cooking awakens their natural sweetness and builds the soup’s foundation.
Step 2: Add Garlic and Broth
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds—just long enough for its aroma to fill your kitchen without turning bitter. Next, pour in the chicken broth and bring everything to a gentle boil, signaling the start of your flavorful concoction.
Step 3: Season and Simmer with Pasta
Sprinkle in dried thyme and parsley to layer herbal notes into the soup, then add uncooked star pasta. Lower the heat to a simmer and let it cook for about eight minutes, allowing the pasta to become tender while soaking up all those savory broth flavors.
Step 4: Add Shredded Chicken and Finish
Carefully stir in your shredded cooked chicken, giving the soup a protein boost and warming the meat through for two to three minutes. Season the soup with salt, pepper, and a splash of lemon juice if you like a hint of brightness. Your Chicken and Stars Soup Recipe is now ready for the table.
How to Serve Chicken and Stars Soup Recipe
Garnishes
Top your bowl with a sprinkle of fresh parsley to add a vibrant green pop and fresh herbal aroma. For an extra cozy touch, a few croutons or a dash of grated Parmesan can transform a simple serving into a flavorful feast.
Side Dishes
This soup pairs beautifully with crusty bread or a soft dinner roll that’s perfect for dipping. Light green salads with lemon vinaigrette also complement the soup’s gentle flavors without overpowering its comforting essence.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve your Chicken and Stars Soup Recipe in charming bowls that highlight the star-shaped pasta’s playful nature—perfect for kids and adults alike. For festive occasions, adding edible flowers or vibrant herbs on top can elevate the presentation and create a memorable meal experience.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. It holds beautifully, with flavors melding even more, making it perfect for quick lunches or dinners during the week.
Freezing
You can freeze the soup for up to two months; however, to maintain the best texture, it’s wise to cook the pasta separately and freeze the broth and chicken on their own. Add the pasta just before reheating to keep those stars from turning mushy.
Reheating
Gently reheat your soup on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally. If the soup is too thick after refrigeration or freezing, simply add a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen it and restore that perfect comforting consistency.
FAQs
Can I use store-bought rotisserie chicken in this recipe?
Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is a fantastic shortcut that adds great flavor and saves time without sacrificing the homemade feel of this Chicken and Stars Soup Recipe.
Is there a gluten-free substitute for the star pasta?
Yes, you can easily swap stelline pasta with your favorite gluten-free small pasta shapes. Just be mindful of the cooking time, as gluten-free pasta may cook faster or slower depending on the brand.
Can I make this soup vegetarian?
To enjoy a vegetarian version, substitute the chicken broth with vegetable broth and replace chicken with hearty beans or tofu. While it won’t be quite the same Chicken and Stars Soup Recipe, it’ll still be delicious and nourishing.
How can I make this soup more kid-friendly?
The star pasta already makes it fun for kids! To appeal even more, try offering toppings like shredded cheese or small croutons and serving it with mild sides like apple slices or cucumber sticks.
What’s the best way to avoid overcooking the pasta?
If you’re making the soup ahead of time, cook the pasta separately and add it just before serving. This trick keeps the pasta from turning too soft and maintains that delightful bite in your Chicken and Stars Soup Recipe.
Final Thoughts
Nothing beats the cozy feeling of a homemade bowl of Chicken and Stars Soup Recipe. It’s simple, flavorful, and filled with love in every bite. Whether you’re cooking for your family or just craving some soul-soothing warmth, give this recipe a try—you’ll soon see why it’s a beloved classic that feels like a little starry hug in a bowl.
Print
Chicken and Stars Soup Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Dairy-Free
Description
A comforting and kid-friendly Chicken and Stars Soup featuring tender shredded chicken, star-shaped pasta, and a medley of vegetables simmered in a flavorful chicken broth. Perfect for a cozy meal, this easy stovetop soup offers wholesome ingredients and bright accents of fresh herbs and lemon juice.
Ingredients
Soup Base
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup cooked chicken breast, shredded
- 3/4 cup uncooked stelline (star) pasta
Seasonings
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon dried parsley
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional)
Garnish
- Fresh parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Sauté Vegetables: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced onion, carrots, and celery, and sauté for about 5 minutes until the vegetables are softened and aromatic.
- Add Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
- Pour Broth and Boil: Pour in the low-sodium chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat.
- Add Seasonings and Pasta: Add dried thyme, dried parsley, and uncooked stelline pasta to the boiling broth. Stir to combine all ingredients.
- Simmer Pasta: Reduce heat to a simmer and cook for about 8 minutes, or until the star-shaped pasta is tender but not mushy.
- Incorporate Chicken: Stir in the shredded cooked chicken breast and simmer for an additional 2 to 3 minutes until the chicken is heated through.
- Season and Finish: Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. If desired, stir in lemon juice for a bright finish.
- Garnish and Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley before serving warm.
Notes
- For convenience, rotisserie chicken can be used instead of cooking chicken breast separately.
- To make this soup gluten-free, substitute the star pasta with a gluten-free small pasta alternative.
- If preparing soup ahead of time, cook the pasta separately and add right before serving to prevent it from becoming over-softened.
