Introduction
Chicken and Stars Soup is a delightful, comforting dish that brings back fond childhood memories for many. This delicious soup is packed with tender chicken, nourishing vegetables, and fun star-shaped pasta, making it a perfect meal for both kids and adults. It’s an easy recipe to follow, ensuring you can whip it up in no time, whether for a cozy evening at home or to serve to guests.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
Chicken: 2 cups cooked and shredded
Carrots: 1 large, diced
Celery: 1 stalk, diced
Onion: 1 small, diced
Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
Chicken broth: 6 cups
Star-shaped pasta: 1 cup
Olive oil: 2 tablespoons
Salt: to taste
Pepper: to taste
Fresh parsley: for garnish
Prep Time
The prep time for Chicken and Stars Soup is approximately 15 minutes. This includes chopping vegetables and shredding the cooked chicken.
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook time for this hearty soup is around 30 minutes. Therefore, the total time from start to finish is about 45 minutes. This recipe yields around 6 servings, making it ideal for family dinners or meal prep.
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Chicken
Begin by cooking the chicken in a large pot over medium heat. Add a bit of oil if necessary to prevent sticking. Cook the chicken until it is no longer pink and is fully cooked through. Remove the chicken from the pot and set it aside.
Step 2: Sauté Vegetables
In the same pot, add diced onions, carrots, and celery. Sauté the vegetables for about 5 minutes until they are softened and the onions are translucent.
Step 3: Add Garlic
Stir in minced garlic and continue to cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
Step 4: Pour in Broth
Add chicken broth to the pot, scraping the bottom to combine and release any browned bits. Bring the mixture to a boil.
Step 5: Add Stars Pasta and Seasonings
Once boiling, add the stars pasta to the soup, along with dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 10-12 minutes, or until the pasta is tender.
Step 6: Shred the Chicken
While the soup is simmering, shred the cooked chicken into bite-sized pieces. Once the pasta is cooked, return the shredded chicken back to the pot.
Step 7: Final Stir and Serve
Give the soup a good stir to combine all ingredients. Taste and adjust seasonings if necessary. Serve hot.
Notes
Note 1
You can use rotisserie chicken as a time-saver for this recipe.
Note 2
Feel free to add other vegetables such as peas or corn for added nutrition and flavor.
Note 3
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat before serving.
Note 4
If the soup thickens too much after refrigeration, simply add a bit of water or broth when reheating to reach your desired consistency.
Cook techniques
Sautéing
Sautéing is a cooking technique that involves cooking ingredients quickly in a small amount of oil or fat over relatively high heat. This method is ideal for cooking the vegetables in the soup to enhance their flavors.
Simmering
Simmering is the process of cooking food gently in liquid at a temperature just below boiling. It allows the flavors to meld together and is perfect for cooking the soup base.
Boiling
Boiling is cooking food in boiling water or broth. This technique is essential for cooking the star-shaped pasta until it is al dente, ensuring a nice texture in the soup.
Stirring
Stirring is the action of mixing ingredients together using a spoon or spatula. This technique helps incorporate all the ingredients evenly and prevents sticking.
Seasoning
Seasoning is the process of adding salt, pepper, and other spices to enhance the flavor of the dish. Proper seasoning is crucial for achieving a well-balanced soup.
FAQ
What type of chicken should I use?
You can use boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs for the best results in your chicken and stars soup.
Can I use frozen vegetables?
Yes, frozen vegetables are a convenient option and can be added directly to the soup without prior cooking.
How can I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Can I substitute the pasta?
Absolutely! You can use any small pasta shape or even gluten-free pasta if needed.
How long does it take to cook?
The total cooking time is approximately 25-30 minutes, including prep and cooking time.
Conclusion
The Chicken and Stars Soup is a delightful and comforting dish that is perfect for any occasion. Its warm flavors and simple ingredients make it an excellent choice for a cozy family meal or a quick weeknight dinner. Not only is it nourishing and satisfying, but it also brings a nostalgic touch reminiscent of childhood favorites.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Chicken Noodle Soup
A classic variation that includes egg noodles and a medley of vegetables for extra flavor and texture.
Vegetarian Stars Soup
A meat-free version using vegetable broth and a mix of your favorite veggies, perfect for those looking for a lighter option.
Creamy Chicken and Stars
Add a touch of cream to the original recipe for a richer and more indulgent soup experience.
Italian Chicken Soup
Incorporate Italian herbs, tomatoes, and cannellini beans to give a Mediterranean twist to the traditional chicken soup.
Spicy Chicken and Stars
Include jalapeños or red pepper flakes to add a kick to the classic recipe for those who enjoy spice.
