If you have been searching for a heartwarming bowl of comfort food that brings a smile with every spoonful, this Chicken and Stars Soup Recipe is exactly what you need. With tender shredded chicken, vibrant vegetables, and adorable star-shaped pasta swimming in a savory broth, this soup feels like a big warm hug in a bowl. It’s not only a nostalgic favorite for kids but also a practical, nourishing meal for any day of the year. Perfectly balanced and effortlessly simple, this recipe will quickly become your go-to when craving something cozy and delicious.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Chicken and Stars Soup Recipe lies in its straightforward ingredients, each playing an essential role in building layers of flavor, texture, and color. From the sweet earthiness of carrots to the delicate chew of stelline pasta, every component is a star in the bowl.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Adds richness and helps soften the vegetables without overpowering the soup.
- 1 small yellow onion (diced): Brings a subtle sweetness that deepens the broth’s complexity.
- 2 carrots (peeled and sliced): Provides a pop of color and gentle natural sweetness to balance the savory notes.
- 2 celery stalks (sliced): Adds a fresh, crisp undertone for a well-rounded taste.
- 2 garlic cloves (minced): Contributes aromatic warmth that elevates the entire soup.
- 6 cups chicken broth: The flavorful foundation that ties every ingredient together.
- 1 cup cooked shredded chicken: Use rotisserie or poached chicken for moist, tender pieces that make the soup hearty.
- 3/4 cup star-shaped pasta (stelline): Fun and bite-sized, perfect for kids and adults alike.
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme: Adds a subtle herbal note that complements the chicken wonderfully.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste): Enhances all the flavors without overwhelming them.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: A tiny kick to round out the savory profile.
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional): For a bright, fresh garnish that adds a lovely final touch.
How to Make Chicken and Stars Soup Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables
Begin by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once heated, add your diced onion, sliced carrots, and celery. Sauté these for about 5 to 6 minutes until they soften and the onion turns translucent. This step is crucial because it unlocks the natural sweetness of the vegetables and forms a flavorful base for your soup.
Step 2: Add Garlic and Broth
Next, stir in the minced garlic and cook it for just 30 seconds to release its fragrant aroma without letting it burn. Immediately pour in the chicken broth, turning up the heat to bring everything to a rolling boil. This broth will pull together all your sautéed veggies with its warm, savory essence.
Step 3: Cook the Pasta and Season
Once boiling, add the star-shaped pasta along with dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Reduce the heat to a gentle simmer, allowing the pasta to cook for about 7 to 8 minutes. This is when the pasta becomes tender yet perfectly al dente, soaking up those delicate herbal and chicken flavors.
Step 4: Add the Shredded Chicken
Finally, stir in the shredded chicken and let it warm through for 2 to 3 minutes. Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning as needed. The shredded chicken adds satisfying protein and makes this soup wonderfully filling while maintaining its light and comforting quality.
How to Serve Chicken and Stars Soup Recipe
Garnishes
A simple sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley on top brightens up your bowl with a fresh color burst and a mild herbal flavor that complements the thyme in the soup. You could also add a squeeze of fresh lemon for a subtle zing or some grated Parmesan for a bit of salty richness, though the soup stands beautifully on its own.
Side Dishes
Pairs beautifully with a crusty piece of bread or buttery garlic toast to soak up the flavorful broth. A side salad with mixed greens and a light vinaigrette would also add a refreshing contrast, making the meal even more balanced and satisfying.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve this soup in charming bowls that highlight the star-shaped pasta to delight kids and adults alike. For entertaining, consider individual soup shooters as appetizers—a cute, creative way to showcase this timeless Chicken and Stars Soup Recipe. You might even add a swirl of cream or a drizzle of herb oil for a special touch.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Your leftover Chicken and Stars Soup Recipe keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To maintain the vibrancy of the pasta and vegetables, store your soup separately from the pasta if possible, or add extra broth when reheating to restore its original consistency.
Freezing
This soup freezes like a dream. For the best texture, freeze the soup base without the pasta. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw and reheat the broth and vegetables, then add fresh pasta as you did originally. This ensures your soup doesn’t become mushy after thawing.
Reheating
Gently reheat your soup over medium-low heat to avoid overcooking the pasta. If the soup has thickened too much, simply add a splash of broth or water to loosen it. Stir frequently until warmed through and serve with your favorite fresh garnish.
FAQs
Can I use different pasta shapes instead of star pasta?
Absolutely! While star pasta is charming and fun, any small pasta like orzo, ditalini, or tiny shells will work wonderfully in this Chicken and Stars Soup Recipe.
Is this soup suitable for kids?
Yes! The mild flavors, tender chicken, and the playful star-shaped pasta make it especially kid-friendly. It’s a comforting meal that even picky eaters tend to enjoy.
Can I use leftover chicken for this soup?
Definitely. Using leftover roasted or poached chicken is a great way to save time while keeping the soup tasty and satisfying.
How can I make this soup gluten-free?
Simply swap the stelline pasta with a gluten-free pasta alternative. Cook times may vary, so keep an eye on the pasta to achieve the perfect tenderness.
What can I add for extra nutrition?
Consider adding leafy greens like spinach or kale near the end of cooking, or stir in some cooked quinoa or beans for an added protein boost while keeping it hearty and healthy.
Final Thoughts
This Chicken and Stars Soup Recipe is the ultimate comfort food that’s easy enough for a quick weeknight dinner but special enough to share with loved ones anytime. Its warm broth, tender chicken, and playful pasta create a welcoming dish that comforts your soul and satisfies your hunger. I encourage you to try making this delicious soup, and soon it may become one of your favorite go-to meals too!
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
Description
A warm and comforting Chicken and Stars Soup featuring tender shredded chicken, star-shaped pasta, and a flavorful blend of vegetables in a savory chicken broth. Perfect for a cozy meal that’s easy to prepare and loved by kids and adults alike.
Ingredients
Soup Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small yellow onion, diced
- 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup cooked shredded chicken (rotisserie or poached)
- 3/4 cup star-shaped pasta (stelline)
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Vegetables: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion, sliced carrots, and celery, then sauté for 5–6 minutes until the vegetables are softened and fragrant.
- Add Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds to release its aroma without burning.
- Add Broth and Bring to Boil: Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil on high heat.
- Add Pasta and Seasonings: Stir in the star-shaped pasta, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper. Reduce the heat to a simmer.
- Cook Pasta: Let the soup simmer for 7–8 minutes, or until the pasta is tender but still firm to the bite.
- Add Chicken: Add the cooked shredded chicken and cook for another 2–3 minutes until the chicken is heated through.
- Adjust Seasoning and Serve: Taste the soup and adjust salt or pepper as needed. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley if desired, and serve hot.
Notes
- Use leftover cooked chicken or rotisserie chicken for convenience and speed.
- The pasta will continue to absorb broth as the soup sits, so add extra broth when reheating leftovers to maintain consistency.
- This soup freezes well—omit the pasta if freezing and add fresh pasta when reheating to retain texture.
