Step-by-Step Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped chicken and cook until lightly browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove chicken from the pot and set aside.
- Add chopped onion, carrots, and celery to the same pot. Sauté for 5-7 minutes, until vegetables begin to soften.
- Pour in the chicken broth. Stir in dried thyme, dried rosemary, and black pepper. Bring the soup to a simmer.
- Once simmering, add the cooked chicken back to the pot.
- Stir in the star-shaped pasta. Cook for 8-10 minutes, or according to package directions, until the pasta is al dente.
- Taste and season with salt as needed.
- Ladle the hot soup into bowls. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley before serving.
Full Ingredients
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into 1/2-inch cubes
- 1 large yellow onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, peeled and diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 8 cups chicken broth (low sodium)
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1/2 tsp dried rosemary
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 cup small star-shaped pasta (stelline)
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
- Salt to taste
Shopping List
- Meat: 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- Produce: 1 large yellow onion, 2 carrots, 2 celery stalks, 1/4 cup fresh parsley
- Pantry: 1 tbsp olive oil, 8 cups chicken broth (low sodium), 1 tsp dried thyme, 1/2 tsp dried rosemary, 1/4 tsp black pepper, 1/2 cup small star-shaped pasta (stelline), Salt
Equipment Needed
- Large pot or Dutch oven
- Cutting board
- Chef’s knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Strainer
Variations & Serving Ideas
This heartwarming Cozy Christmas Chicken and Stars Soup is a fulfilling meal all by itself, a true embodiment of comfort. To make it a more substantial spread, present it piping hot alongside thick slices of crusty artisan bread or warm, buttery dinner rolls perfect for soaking up every drop of that delicious broth. A crisp, simple green salad dressed with a bright lemon vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast. For an elegant touch, garnish each bowl with a generous sprinkle of vibrant fresh parsley, a swirl of good olive oil, or a crack of freshly ground black pepper. Should you be lucky enough to have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. When reheating, do so gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, and don’t hesitate to add a splash more chicken broth or water to restore its perfect consistency, especially if the stars pasta has absorbed a lot of the liquid.
I truly hope this Cozy Christmas Chicken and Stars Soup becomes a beloved staple in your home, bringing endless warmth, comfort, and a sprinkle of festive cheer to your family table. It’s more than just a recipe; it’s an invitation to savor the simple joys of a homemade meal that nourishes both body and soul. Don’t forget to share your creations and thoughts in the comments below – I absolutely love hearing from you! Happy cooking, my friends, and enjoy every comforting spoonful! #HealthyDinnerWhenSick #FoodComfort #FeelGoodRecipesComfortFoods #SoupRecipesBroth #SoupsChicken #PastaWithChickenBroth #ChickenStarNoodleSoup #MostDeliciousFood #StarsPastaRecipes