Hearty Chicken and Starry Pasta Soup: A Comforting and Wholesome Meal

On a cold, dreary day or when you need something warm to uplift your spirits, nothing feels quite as soothing as a bowl of homemade soup. This Hearty Chicken and Starry Pasta Soup is not just a meal; it’s an experience of comfort, nostalgia, and flavor. The tender shredded chicken, soft vegetables, and adorable stelline (mini star-shaped) pasta make every bite a delightful combination of textures and tastes.

This recipe brings together the richness of chicken stock, the subtle saltiness of parmesan cheese, and the brightness of fresh lemon juice, resulting in a soup that feels like a warm hug in a bowl. It’s easy to make, kid-friendly, and the perfect dish for family dinners or cozy nights at home.

Why You’ll Love This Chicken and Starry Pasta Soup

If you’re looking for a recipe that’s nourishing and satisfying, this soup is a must-try. Not only does it combine comforting flavors with nutritious ingredients, but it also allows for simple customizations to fit your taste preferences.

The addition of mini star-shaped pasta makes it especially appealing for kids, while the rich broth and bright lemony finish cater to adult palates. Whether you’re fighting off a cold or simply looking for a hearty meal, this soup is sure to become a family favorite.

Ingredients for Hearty Chicken and Starry Pasta Soup

Here’s everything you need to bring this cozy soup to life:

Ingredient	Quantity	Notes
Unsalted butter	3 tablespoons	For sautéing the base vegetables
Sweet onion, diced	1	Adds sweetness and depth to the broth
Carrots, peeled and diced	3	Provides color and natural sweetness
Celery sticks, diced	2	Adds a subtle crunch and freshness
Garlic cloves, minced	3	Infuses the soup with savory warmth
Kosher salt and black pepper	To taste	Adjust to your preference
Poultry seasoning	½ teaspoon	Enhances the chicken’s flavor
Cooked, shredded chicken	1 ½ cups	Use leftover chicken or rotisserie
Chicken stock	7 to 8 cups	Forms the rich, savory base of the soup
Parmesan cheese rind	1	Adds a subtle salty and nutty flavor
Stelline pasta (mini star-shaped pasta)	1 cup	Kid-friendly and adorable
Lemon juice (freshly squeezed)	1 tablespoon	Adds brightness and balance
Fresh parsley, chopped	3 tablespoons	For garnish and added freshness
Parmesan cheese	For topping	Optional, for extra richness
Lemon wedges	For serving	Optional, for a zesty kick

How to Make Hearty Chicken and Starry Pasta Soup

1. Prepare the Base

1. In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables start to soften and release their flavors.

2. Add the Garlic and Seasoning

1. Stir in the minced garlic, kosher salt, black pepper, and poultry seasoning.
2. Cook for an additional 1–2 minutes, allowing the garlic to become fragrant.

3. Incorporate the Chicken and Broth

1. Add the shredded chicken to the pot and pour in the chicken stock.
2. Drop in the parmesan cheese rind and stir to combine all the ingredients.
3. Bring the soup to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 20 minutes.

4. Cook the Pasta

1. Stir in the stelline pasta and continue to simmer the soup for another 8–10 minutes, or until the pasta is tender.
2. Once the pasta is cooked, remove the parmesan rind and discard it.

5. Add Final Touches

1. Stir in the freshly squeezed lemon juice and chopped parsley.
2. Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with additional salt or pepper as needed.

6. Garnish and Serve

1. Ladle the soup into bowls and top each serving with extra parsley and a sprinkle of grated parmesan cheese.
2. Serve with lemon wedges on the side for those who prefer an extra burst of citrus.

Why This Soup Stands Out

1. A Nutritious Meal in Every Bowl

With protein-packed chicken, fiber-rich vegetables, and satisfying pasta, this soup delivers a balanced meal that’s both comforting and nourishing.

2. Perfect for All Ages

The mini star-shaped pasta makes this soup a hit with kids, while the rich flavors and lemony finish appeal to adults.

3. Easy to Customize

You can easily adapt this recipe by adding extra vegetables, swapping the stelline pasta for orzo or ditalini, or using vegetable stock for a vegetarian version.

4. Budget-Friendly and Quick

This soup uses pantry staples and leftover ingredients, making it an affordable yet flavorful option for busy weeknights.

Tips for Perfect Chicken and Starry Pasta Soup

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Freshly squeezed lemon juice, high-quality chicken stock, and freshly grated parmesan cheese make a noticeable difference in flavor.
• Don’t Skip the Parmesan Rind: It’s a secret weapon that adds incredible depth and richness to the soup. If you don’t have one, use a small piece of parmesan cheese as a substitute.
• Cook the Pasta Separately for Leftovers: If you plan to store leftovers, cook the stelline pasta separately and add it to individual servings. This prevents the pasta from soaking up too much broth and becoming mushy.
• Make It Creamy: For a creamier soup, stir in 1/4 cup of heavy cream or a dollop of sour cream just before serving.
• Add Extra Greens: Throw in a handful of fresh spinach or kale toward the end of cooking for added nutrients.

FAQs About Hearty Chicken and Starry Pasta Soup

1. Can I use another type of pasta?

Yes! If you can’t find stelline pasta, you can use orzo, ditalini, or any other small pasta shape. Adjust the cooking time accordingly.

2. Can I make this soup gluten-free?

Absolutely! Simply substitute the stelline pasta with your favorite gluten-free pasta.

3. Can I use rotisserie chicken?

Yes, rotisserie chicken is a convenient option for this recipe. Simply shred the meat and add it to the soup as directed.

4. How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you’ve already added the pasta, be aware that it may absorb more broth over time.

5. Can I freeze this soup?

Yes! Freeze the soup without the pasta in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. When reheating, cook fresh pasta separately and add it to the soup.

6. What can I serve with this soup?

This soup pairs beautifully with crusty bread, garlic bread, or a simple green salad for a complete meal.

Why This Recipe Will Become a Family Favorite

There’s something magical about a bowl of homemade soup. This Hearty Chicken and Starry Pasta Soup not only warms your body but also brings a sense of comfort and joy to your table. Its rich flavors, nourishing ingredients, and kid-friendly appeal make it the ultimate crowd-pleaser.

Whether you’re feeding a busy family, hosting a casual gathering, or simply craving a cozy meal, this soup is guaranteed to hit the spot. Plus, it’s quick and easy enough to make on a weeknight without sacrificing flavor.

Final Thoughts: A Bowl Full of Comfort

Ready to cozy up with a delicious bowl of soup? This Hearty Chicken and Starry Pasta Soup is more than just a meal—it’s a heartwarming experience that brings people together. With its combination of tender chicken, star-shaped pasta, and fresh lemony broth, it’s a dish you’ll want to make again and again.

Gather your ingredients, follow the simple steps, and treat yourself to the ultimate comfort food. Don’t forget to share this recipe with friends and family—they’ll thank you for it!

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