If you’re looking for a cozy, heartwarming dish that brings a touch of whimsy and nostalgia to your table, this Chicken and Stars Soup Recipe is exactly what you need. With tender shredded chicken, vibrant vegetables, and those delightful little star-shaped pasta pieces that make every spoonful fun, it’s a bowl of comfort that feels like a warm hug. Whether serving it on a chilly evening or when someone needs a nourishing pick-me-up, this recipe balances rich flavors and simple ingredients to create a deeply satisfying experience that’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and how each ingredient works together to create a harmonious bowl of deliciousness. Fresh vegetables add texture and natural sweetness, herbs provide aromatic depth, while the star pasta adds charm and a subtle bite to the soup’s silky broth.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Adds a smooth, fruity base for sautéing the vegetables.
- 1 small onion, diced: Offers a sweet, savory foundation once softened.
- 2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced: Bring natural sweetness and vibrant color.
- 2 celery stalks, sliced: Adds a subtle earthy crunch and flavor complexity.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the soup with a warm, aromatic kick.
- 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth: The flavorful liquid base that keeps the soup light yet hearty.
- 1 cup cooked chicken breast, shredded: Provides tender protein and meaty satisfaction.
- 3/4 cup uncooked stelline or star pasta: Fun, bite-sized noodles that soak up the broth beautifully.
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme: Adds subtle herbaceous notes that elevate the overall taste.
- 1/2 teaspoon dried parsley: Contributes fresh, green herbal brightness.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for balancing and enhancing flavors.
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional): Brings a lively, zesty brightness that brightens the soup.
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional): For a fresh, colorful finish that adds a pop of green.
How to Make Chicken and Stars Soup Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables
Begin by heating the olive oil over medium heat in a large pot. Toss in the diced onion, sliced carrots, and celery. Let these cook gently for about five minutes, stirring occasionally until the vegetables start to soften and release their lovely aromas. This foundational step develops the savory base of your soup, awakening the flavors that make this dish so comforting.
Step 2: Add Garlic and Broth
Next, stir in the minced garlic and let it cook for just thirty seconds more—enough to release its fragrance without turning bitter. Pour in the chicken broth and raise the heat to bring the mixture to a gentle boil. This step is crucial because the broth carries all the flavors and keeps everything warm and inviting.
Step 3: Introduce Herbs and Star Pasta
Once boiling, sprinkle in the dried thyme and parsley, then add the uncooked star pasta. Reduce the heat to a simmer and let the pasta cook for about eight minutes until it becomes tender yet retains just enough bite. The little star shapes make the soup not only tasty but visually fun, especially for kids or the young at heart.
Step 4: Add Chicken and Final Seasoning
Stir in your shredded cooked chicken, letting it warm through for two to three more minutes. This step melds the juicy chicken with the flavorful broth and pasta. Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste, and if you like a hint of brightness, stir in a tablespoon of lemon juice. The lemon adds a fresh zing that beautifully balances the soup’s richness.
How to Serve Chicken and Stars Soup Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh parsley on top not only looks inviting but adds a subtle herbal freshness that complements the earthiness of the thyme and celery. You might also consider a light drizzle of extra virgin olive oil or a small crack of freshly ground black pepper for a touch of elegance and extra flavor.
Side Dishes
This soup pairs wonderfully with a warm, crusty baguette or a slice of garlic bread to soak up every last bit. For a light and balanced meal, serve it alongside a crisp green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette. The combination brings both comfort and freshness to your dining experience.
Creative Ways to Present
For a family-friendly presentation, serve this Chicken and Stars Soup Recipe in colorful bowls that show off the inviting golden broth and playful pasta. If you’re entertaining, ladle the soup into mini bowls or even mugs for a casual, charming appetizer. Adding a small side of grated Parmesan can also delight guests who enjoy a cheesy touch.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To keep the texture of the pasta just right, consider storing the soup separately from the cooked pasta if you anticipate longer storage. This prevents the pasta from getting too soft and mushy.
Freezing
This soup freezes well but with a little caution. It’s best to freeze the broth and chicken mixture without the pasta, then add freshly cooked star pasta when reheating. This method keeps the pasta from becoming overly mushy and helps maintain a fresh texture once thawed.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally. If you froze the soup without pasta, add the cooked star pasta at this stage and warm until everything is heated through. A splash of chicken broth can be added if the soup seems too thick after reheating.
FAQs
Can I use other types of pasta instead of star pasta?
Absolutely! While the star pasta adds a fun visual element, small pasta shapes like orzo, tiny shells, or ditalini work just as well and will absorb the savory broth beautifully.
Is it possible to make this soup gluten-free?
Yes, simply substitute the stelline or star pasta with your favorite gluten-free small pasta. The cooking time may vary slightly, but the result will be just as delicious and comforting.
Can I use leftover chicken or rotisserie chicken?
Definitely! Using cooked leftover chicken or rotisserie chicken makes this recipe even quicker to prepare and adds a wonderful depth of flavor. Just shred the meat before adding it to the soup in the final step.
Can I make this recipe vegan or vegetarian?
You can adapt this recipe by using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and skipping the chicken or substituting with plant-based protein like tofu or chickpeas. It won’t taste exactly the same but will still be hearty and flavorful.
How can I make this soup more kid-friendly?
The little star pasta already makes the soup fun for kids, but you can also sneak in extra pureed veggies or serve it with their favorite breadsticks. Mild seasoning and a little extra broth can make it even more appealing to younger palates.
Final Thoughts
This Chicken and Stars Soup Recipe is more than just a meal; it’s a comforting, joyful experience in a bowl. Its simple ingredients, beautiful textures, and warm flavors make it perfect for any day you want to feel nurtured and satisfied. I encourage you to give it a try and discover how this delightful soup can become a cherished staple in your kitchen. Happy cooking!
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
Chicken and Stars Soup is a comforting and nourishing American classic featuring tender shredded chicken, small star-shaped pasta, and a flavorful vegetable broth. This easy-to-make soup combines sautéed aromatic vegetables with chicken broth, herbs, and a hint of lemon juice for a bright finish. Perfect for a cozy meal, it’s kid-friendly and can be adapted for gluten-free diets.
Ingredients
Soup Ingredients
- 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
- 1 cup cooked chicken breast, shredded
- 3/4 cup uncooked stelline or star pasta
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon dried parsley
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional)
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Vegetables: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced onion, carrots, and celery, sautéing for about 5 minutes until the vegetables soften and become fragrant.
- Add Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds, taking care not to burn it.
- Simmer Broth and Pasta: Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Add dried thyme, dried parsley, and the uncooked stelline pasta. Reduce heat to a simmer and cook for about 8 minutes until the pasta is tender.
- Add Chicken: Stir in shredded cooked chicken breast and continue simmering for 2–3 minutes to heat the chicken through evenly.
- Season the Soup: Season with salt and pepper to taste. If using, add lemon juice for a fresh, bright flavor.
- Garnish and Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Serve warm for a comforting meal.
Notes
- For convenience, use rotisserie chicken instead of cooking chicken breast separately.
- To make this soup gluten-free, substitute the stelline pasta with gluten-free small pasta shapes.
- If preparing ahead, cook pasta separately and add it just before serving to prevent the pasta from becoming over-soft.
