Introduction
Cooking a comforting and hearty soup is a delightful way to warm up on a chilly day. This recipe incorporates tender chicken thighs, colorful vegetables, and whimsical star-shaped pasta, making it a perfect dish for both kids and adults alike. It’s not just delicious; it’s also packed with wholesome ingredients, making it ideal for a family meal. Read on to discover how to create this delicious chicken noodle soup.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
1 cup star-shaped pasta
1 medium onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 medium carrots, sliced
2 celery stalks, sliced
8 cups low-sodium chicken broth
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Prep Time
Prep time for this recipe is approximately 15 minutes, during which you can prepare and chop the vegetables, season the chicken, and gather all your ingredients.
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook time is about 25 minutes, making the total time from prep to serve roughly 40 minutes. This recipe yields around 4 to 6 servings, perfect for a cozy family dinner or for leftovers to enjoy the next day.
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Season the Chicken
Season the chicken pieces with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Ensure the chicken is evenly coated for optimal flavor.
Step 2: Brown the Chicken
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the seasoned chicken and cook for about 8 minutes, stirring occasionally until all pieces are browned. Once browned, remove the chicken from the pot and set aside.
Step 3: Sauté the Onions
In the same pot, add the diced onion along with a pinch of salt and pepper. Cook for approximately 3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onion becomes translucent.
Step 4: Add Remaining Vegetables
Add the minced garlic, sliced carrots, and sliced celery to the pot. Stir the mixture and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the vegetables to begin softening.
Step 5: Incorporate Chicken Broth
Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture back to a simmer. Add the cooked chicken back into the pot. Stir in the garlic powder, onion powder, and red pepper flakes if using. Bring the mixture to a boil.
Step 6: Simmer for Flavor
Once the broth is boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer. Let the soup cook for 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
Step 7: Add Pasta
Add the star-shaped pasta to the pot and continue to simmer for an additional 10 minutes, or until the pasta is tender and cooked through.
Step 8: Adjust Seasoning
Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning as needed. Add more salt and pepper if necessary to enhance the flavor.
Step 9: Serve the Soup
Serve the soup hot. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired for added flavor and presentation.
Notes
Ingredient Substitutions
Feel free to use different types of pasta if star-shaped pasta is unavailable.
Vegetable Variations
You can add other vegetables such as spinach or bell peppers for additional nutrition and flavor.
Storage Instructions
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave before serving.
Freezing Instructions
If desired, you can freeze the soup. However, the pasta may become soft when reheated. It’s often best to add cooked pasta fresh when serving after thawing.
Cook Techniques
Seasoning Chicken
Season the chicken thighs with salt and freshly ground black pepper to enhance the flavor before cooking.
Sauteing
Heat olive oil in a large pot and sauté the seasoned chicken until browned. This technique helps to develop flavor and texture.
Cooking Aromatics
Sauté diced onion with a pinch of salt and pepper until translucent before adding garlic. This method draws out the sweetness of the onion and enhances the depth of flavor.
Simmering
After adding chicken broth and bringing it to a boil, reduce the heat to a simmer. This gentle cooking method allows flavors to meld without overcooking the ingredients.
Pasta Cooking
Add star-shaped pasta towards the end of cooking and simmer until tender. This technique prevents the pasta from becoming mushy.
Tasting and Adjusting Seasoning
Before serving, taste the soup and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper as needed. This ensures a balanced flavor profile.
FAQ
Can I use other types of pasta?
Yes, you can substitute star-shaped pasta with other small pasta varieties like macaroni, ditalini, or any pasta of your preference.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.
Can I add other vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to add other vegetables like peas, bell peppers, or spinach for added color and nutrition.
Is it possible to make this soup in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can adapt this recipe for a slow cooker. Brown the chicken first, then add all ingredients and cook on low for 6-8 hours.
How do I make this soup gluten-free?
To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free pasta and ensure the chicken broth is also gluten-free.
Conclusion
This hearty chicken soup with star-shaped pasta is a delightful and comforting dish, perfect for any time of the year. The combination of tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and flavorful broth makes it a family favorite. Easy to prepare and customizable, it’s a great way to enjoy a wholesome meal that warms the soul.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Chicken and Vegetable Stir-Fry
Combine bite-sized chicken pieces with a mix of your favorite vegetables such as bell peppers, broccoli, and snap peas, stir-fried in olive oil with garlic and ginger.
Pasta Primavera
Use star-shaped pasta or any pasta of your choice, sauté seasonal vegetables, and toss them with olive oil, garlic, and a sprinkle of parmesan cheese for a light dish.
Chicken Noodle Soup
Substitute star-shaped pasta with egg noodles and add herbs like thyme and parsley to create a classic chicken noodle soup everyone loves.
Spicy Chicken Chili
Incorporate red pepper flakes for a spicy twist, add canned tomatoes, kidney beans, and corn for a hearty chili perfect for cooler nights.
Vegetable and White Bean Soup
Replace chicken with white beans and add an array of vegetables like zucchini and spinach for a vegetarian option loaded with protein and flavor.
Homemade Chicken Tortilla Soup
Add tortilla strips, black beans, and avocado to your chicken soup for a Mexican-inspired dish that’s full of flavor and texture.
