Ah, there’s just something about a warm bowl of **Cozy Chicken and Stars Soup** that wraps around you like a favorite blanket on a chilly day, doesn’t it? One of my fondest memories is from chilly evenings spent around the dinner table, where this soup would be the star of the show. The aroma wafting through the house would be enough to draw everyone in, and as we gathered around, chitchat and laughter would fill the air. It’s a recipe that not only warms the belly but also warms the heart – perfect for those rainy days or when you’re just in need of a little comfort.
What I love most about this soup is how ridiculously easy it is to whip up. Seriously, if I can do it, you can too! It’s like a big hug in a bowl that doesn’t ask for perfection; it just wants to be enjoyed. Plus, the little pasta stars flying around in the soup remind me of childhood and bring a smile when I see them. So, let’s dive into what makes this concoction so delightful!
What’s in Cozy Chicken and Stars Soup?
Olive Oil: Just a splash to add flavor and help sauté the veggies to perfection. I typically use extra virgin olive oil for that rich taste!
Onion: A medium onion, diced finely; it gives a sweet base to the soup. Let it cook down until it’s translucent for the best flavor.
Garlic: Two cloves of minced garlic add that wonderful aromatic magic. Honestly, who can resist garlic?
Carrots: Three medium carrots, diced. They bring a touch of sweetness and color, making the soup look as good as it tastes.
Celery: Two celery stalks, diced. Not only does it add crunch, but it’s also a classic soup ingredient.
Chicken Broth: Six cups of rich chicken broth serve as the soul of this soup. Homemade is fantastic, but I often reach for my favorite low-sodium store-bought variety when I’m in a rush.
Shredded Cooked Chicken: Two cups of shredded chicken—this could be rotisserie chicken, leftovers, or even a quick poach job. It’s the ultimate comfort food protein!
Small Pasta Stars: One cup of these cute little pasta beauties (or any small pasta) for that delightful chewyness!
Dried Thyme: Just a teaspoon adds an earthy note that ties all the flavors together.
Dried Parsley: Another teaspoon that brightens up the flavor profile.
Salt and Pepper: To taste, because no dish is complete without that essential seasoning!
Fresh Parsley: Chopped and used as a garnish. It looks great and adds a fresh flavor burst just before serving.
Is Cozy Chicken and Stars Soup Good for You?
Now, let’s chat about the health side of things! This soup is loaded with goodness and comfort.
Chicken: Packed with protein, it helps in muscle recovery and keeps you feeling full. Plus, it’s a lean option compared to some meats!
Vegetables: The mix of carrots, onions, and celery brings vitamins, minerals, and fiber into the mix, helping keep your overall health in check.
However, it’s also worth noting that depending on the brand of chicken broth you use, it may contain added sodium. If you’re watching your sodium intake, you might want to choose low-sodium broth or make your own at home.
This soup is quite forgiving in terms of adjustments, so feel free to toss in any leftover vegetables you have lying around. Just make sure to keep an eye on cook times!
How to Make Cozy Chicken and Stars Soup?
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and garlic, sautéing until the onion becomes translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Ah, the smell of this combo is the best!
2. Add the diced carrots and celery to the pot, cooking for an additional 5-7 minutes until the vegetables soften. Look at those vibrant colors; you can already see it coming together!
3. Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Careful, we’re getting fancy here!
4. Once boiling, add the shredded chicken, small pasta stars, dried thyme, and dried parsley. Reduce the heat to a simmer and cook until the pasta is tender, about 8-10 minutes. If you’ve got a curious child or partner, now is a great time to let them watch the pasta dance!
5. Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. Stir to combine and make it the best it can be!
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley. Go ahead and make it pretty for that Insta-worthy shot!
Serving Suggestions & Secret Tips
Alright, my friends, here are a few tips and tricks to make your soup even better:
– This soup pairs wonderfully with a crusty bread for dipping. Seriously, crumbs are a bonus!
– If you want to amp up the nutrition, throw in some leafy greens like spinach or kale in the last few minutes of cooking. They’ll wilt down beautifully!
– This soup can chill in your fridge for 3-4 days, and you can freeze it for longer storage. Just remember to add a little extra broth when reheating if the pasta has absorbed too much liquid.
So there you have it, my cozy Chicken and Stars Soup! I can’t wait for you to give this a whirl at home. It’s like a warm hug in a bowl, and I’d love to hear how yours turns out! Happy cooking!
