Before diving into the beautiful world of chicken and stars soup, let’s think about what can enhance this delightful dish. While the soup is tasty on its own, it pairs well with:
- Crusty Bread: A fresh baguette or buttery dinner rolls can soak up the rich broth wonderfully.
- Garden Salad: A light side of mixed greens dressed in a simple vinaigrette can provide a refreshing contrast.
- Cheese Platter: Add a touch of elegance with a few slices of aged cheese that’s not too overpowering.
- Herb-Infused Oil: Drizzling a little herb-infused olive oil over your soup can elevate its flavor profile.
- Italian Antipasto: Your favorite antipasto items can serve as complementing bites that enhance the meal experience.
Now that we’ve got the stage set, let’s embark on the journey of making this comforting soup.
What is Chicken and Stars Soup Recipe?
Chicken and stars soup is simple and unpretentious. It’s all about tender chicken pieces floating in a flavorful broth accompanied by triangles of carrots, dashes of celery, and stars of pasta that can bring a smile to anyone’s face.
Often associated with comforting childhood memories, it’s a dish made for love—like a warm hug in edible form. It embodies everything you want in a delightful meal: nourishment, comfort, and a generous sprinkle of nostalgia.
This recipe not only treads the path of familiarity; it invites you to add your own flair. While some add herbs or create their own stock, I’ll guide you here through a straightforward approach while allowing for small tweaks that can make it your own masterpiece.
What is the Flavor Profile of This Dish?
The flavor profile of chicken and stars soup is a delightful bouquet of savory and subtle notes. You’ll immediately sense the warmth from the chicken stock, complemented by the robust aroma of sautéed onion and garlic. Sweetness hides under the surface thanks to the carrots and celery, while a hint of acidity from the lemon juice balances the richness of the chicken and butter.
As the parsley sails in with its freshness, the star-shaped pasta creates fun pockets of joy within each spoonful. The optional crushed red pepper flake adds a mild kick, transforming an otherwise simple broth into a symphony of flavor that dances on your palate.
Why You’ll Love This?
Every dish needs a good reason, right? So here’s why you’ll crave this chicken and stars soup:
- It’s Nostalgic: For many, it’s a trip down memory lane, reminding us of childhood joys and cozy family dinners.
- Quick and Easy: This recipe can be made in under an hour, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Customizable: You can toss in whatever veggies you have in your fridge or substitute chicken with turkey—perfect for using leftovers!
- Healthy: Loaded with nutrients from the veggies and lean protein, it’s a guilt-free way to indulge.
- Family-Friendly: Kids love the star-shaped pasta and the simple yet comforting flavors make it accessible for all palates.
Let’s roll up our sleeves and start making this comforting bowl of goodness!
Ingredients
Here’s everything you’ll need:
- 1 Parmesan cheese rind – optional, yet it enhances the umami richness beautifully.
- 3 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley, plus extra for garnish – adds freshness and color.
- 3 garlic cloves, minced or grated – for that robust aromatic flavor.
- 1 large sweet onion, finely diced – brings subtle sweetness.
- 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice – brightens and balances flavors.
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter – provides a rich, flavorful base.
- ½ teaspoon poultry seasoning – brings classic herby warmth.
- 1 ½ cups cooked, shredded chicken – ideally from roasted or poached chicken for depth of flavor.
- 2 celery sticks, chopped – adds texture and a savory backbone.
- Parmesan cheese, finely grated, for topping – perfection when served.
- ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes – optional, add a gentle kick of heat.
- Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper – for perfect seasoning.
- 7 to 8 cups chicken stock – homemade or low-sodium, providing a full-bodied broth.
- 3 carrots, peeled and diced into small pieces – for natural sweetness and texture.
- 1 cup uncooked stelline pasta (tiny star-shaped pasta) – makes the soup comforting and fun.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
Start by gathering all your ingredients. Finely dice your onion, chop the celery, carrots, and parsley, and shred the cooked chicken. Having everything ready makes this process smoother.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
In a large pot, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until it becomes translucent, about 3-4 minutes. As the aroma fills your kitchen, toss in the minced garlic and sauté for another minute until fragrant.
Step 3: Add the Chicken and Broth
Next, stir in the shredded chicken along with the chicken stock. Let this simmer gently, allowing the flavors to marry. If using the Parmesan rind, it’s time to drop it in—trust me, the umami magic will work wonders.
Step 4: Introduce the Vegetables
Add your chopped celery and diced carrots to the pot. This is where the soup begins to take shape, both in flavor and texture. Season with kosher salt, freshly ground black pepper, and poultry seasoning. Let everything simmer for about 15 minutes.
Step 5: Cook the Pasta
Once the vegetables are tender, add the stelline pasta to the pot. Cook according to the package instructions, usually around 8-10 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent any sticking, and watch it transform into delicious little stars.
Step 6: Finish with Freshness
Before serving, stir in the freshly squeezed lemon juice and chopped parsley. Check the seasoning again; you may want to adjust it with more salt, pepper, or lemon juice depending on your taste.
Step 7: Serve and Garnish
Ladle the soup into bowls, topping each with freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Add a sprinkle of parsley for a finishing touch. Don’t forget the crusty bread on the side for dipping!
Tips & Tricks
Here’s how to elevate your chicken and stars soup:
- Use Homemade Stock: If you can, use homemade chicken stock. It adds forward depth in flavor that store-bought versions can’t compete with.
- Fresh Ingredients: Source fresh vegetables. They can significantly change the taste and health benefits of your soup.
- Customize Your Pasta: If you can’t find stelline, try other small pasta shapes like orzo or ditalini.
- Meal Prep: Make a double batch—soup freezes beautifully. Just ensure you add the pasta fresh while reheating to avoid mushiness.
- Add a Kick: If you like a punch of spice, consider adding fresh chopped jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce right before serving.
Nutrition Information
(Estimated per cup)
- Calories: 240
- Protein: 18g
- Fat: 8g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg (can vary based on stock used)
How Can You Store This Chicken and Stars Soup Recipe?
Storing chicken and stars soup is simple:
- Refrigerate: Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will last in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Freeze: For longer storage, pour the cooled soup into freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags, leaving some space for expansion. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm gently on the stove. If the pasta becomes too soft during freezing, consider adding fresh pasta when reheating.
Ingredient Alternatives
Sometimes, your pantry might not have a specific ingredient on hand. Here are a few substitutes you can consider:
- Chicken: Leftover turkey works wonderfully as a substitute. Simply shred and add it to the pot the same way you would with chicken.
- Vegetables: If you don’t have carrots or celery, zucchini or green beans can step in beautifully. Just toss them in during the last 15 minutes of cooking.
- Stelline Pasta: If you can’t find tiny star-shaped pasta, macaroni or small shells are great alternatives that hold the broth nicely.
Conclusion
Chicken and stars soup is much more than just a dish—it’s a comfort, a set of memories, and a nourishing embrace after a long day. With its comforting warmth, vibrant flavors, and simple ingredients, it invites you to slow down and savor every bite.
With this recipe, you not only learn to create a bowl of goodness but also tap into your creative kitchen spirit. Whether it’s a rainy day, a family gathering, or just a moment of self-care, this soup has your back.
So, don’t just take my word for it. Go ahead and unravel your culinary skills with this delightful recipe. Happy cooking, and may your chicken and stars soup bring you as much joy as it brings to every table it graces!
You’ll also like the following recipes!
Chicken and Stars Soup – Quick Delicious Meals
Ah, chicken and stars soup. For many, it’s a nostalgic reminder of childhood, a comforting dish that warms the heart and soul. My earliest memories of this soup twinkled with both warmth and humor, in every glimmer of pasta meant to be fun, and in every spoonful filled with the deliciousness of chicken, broth, and wholesome veggies.
This recipe doesn’t just emerge from a cookbook; it comes from my kitchen, where countless pots have simmered to perfection. Here, I’ll share not just the method but also the love and care that intertwine each ingredient into a hearty bowl of goodness.
Imagine a crisp evening. You’re wrapped in a cozy blanket with a bowl of this soup, the steam curling up like whispers of warmth on your cheeks. Doesn’t it make you drool just thinking about it?
Ingredients
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
-
Start by gathering all your ingredients. Finely dice your onion, chop the celery, carrots, and parsley, and shred the cooked chicken. Having everything ready makes this process smoother.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
-
In a large pot, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until it becomes translucent, about 3-4 minutes. As the aroma fills your kitchen, toss in the minced garlic and sauté for another minute until fragrant.
Step 3: Add the Chicken and Broth
-
Next, stir in the shredded chicken along with the chicken stock. Let this simmer gently, allowing the flavors to marry. If using the Parmesan rind, it's time to drop it in—trust me, the umami magic will work wonders.
Step 4: Introduce the Vegetables
-
Add your chopped celery and diced carrots to the pot. This is where the soup begins to take shape, both in flavor and texture. Season with kosher salt, freshly ground black pepper, and poultry seasoning. Let everything simmer for about 15 minutes.
Step 5: Cook the Pasta
-
Once the vegetables are tender, add the stelline pasta to the pot. Cook according to the package instructions, usually around 8-10 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent any sticking, and watch it transform into delicious little stars.
Step 6: Finish with Freshness
-
Before serving, stir in the freshly squeezed lemon juice and chopped parsley. Check the seasoning again; you may want to adjust it with more salt, pepper, or lemon juice depending on your taste.
Step 7: Serve and Garnish
-
Ladle the soup into bowls, topping each with freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Add a sprinkle of parsley for a finishing touch. Don’t forget the crusty bread on the side for dipping!
Nutrition Facts
Servings 4
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 240kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 8g13%
- Sodium 600mg25%
- Total Carbohydrate 22g8%
- Dietary Fiber 2g8%
- Protein 18g36%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
- Use Homemade Stock: If you can, use homemade chicken stock. It adds forward depth in flavor that store-bought versions can’t compete with.
- Fresh Ingredients: Source fresh vegetables. They can significantly change the taste and health benefits of your soup.
- Customize Your Pasta: If you can’t find stelline, try other small pasta shapes like orzo or ditalini.
- Meal Prep: Make a double batch—soup freezes beautifully. Just ensure you add the pasta fresh while reheating to avoid mushiness.
- Add a Kick: If you like a punch of spice, consider adding fresh chopped jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce right before serving.
