Introduction
This delightful star-shaped pasta soup is a comforting meal perfect for chilly days. Rich in flavor and packed with protein from the chicken thighs, this dish brings together a medley of vegetables enhanced by aromatic spices. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy meal to share with loved ones, this recipe is sure to warm your heart and satisfy your taste buds.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
1½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into cubes
1 cup star-shaped pasta
1 onion, chopped
2 medium carrots, chopped
3 cloves garlic, finely chopped
3 ribs celery, chopped
5 cups chicken broth
1-2 teaspoons salt
1 teaspoon pepper
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
½ teaspoon red pepper flakes
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time
30 minutes
Total Time
45 minutes
Yield
Serves 4-6
This star-shaped pasta soup is not just a dish; it’s an experience designed to bring comfort and delight. With nutritious ingredients and simple preparation, you can enjoy a hearty meal any day of the week. Serve hot and savor the warmth!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Season the Chicken
Season the cubed chicken thighs with salt and pepper to enhance the flavor.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
In a large pot over medium heat, warm the olive oil. Once the oil is hot, add the seasoned chicken and cook for about 8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through. Remove the chicken from the pot and set aside.
Step 3: Sauté the Onions
In the same pot, add the chopped onion along with a pinch of salt and pepper. Cook the onion until it becomes translucent, which should take approximately 3 minutes.
Step 4: Add Vegetables
Add the minced garlic, chopped celery, and carrots to the pot. Stir them together and cook for 2-3 minutes until the vegetables start to soften.
Step 5: Combine Ingredients
Return the cooked chicken to the pot. Add the garlic powder, onion powder, and red pepper flakes. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
Step 6: Add Chicken Broth
Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil. This will help develop the flavors.
Step 7: Cook with Pasta
After the broth reaches a boil, cook for 10 minutes. Then, add the star-shaped pasta and continue cooking for an additional 8 minutes, or until the pasta is tender.
Step 8: Adjust Seasoning
Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning by adding more salt and pepper as necessary, to suit your preference.
Step 9: Serve
Serve the soup hot and enjoy the comforting flavors!
Notes
Ingredient Preparation
Ensure all vegetables are chopped and ready before starting to streamline the cooking process.
Cooking Time
Keep an eye on the cooking time to avoid overcooking the pasta, which can become mushy.
Storage
This soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop before serving.
Customization
Feel free to add additional vegetables or herbs based on your preference for extra flavor and nutrition.
Cook techniques
1. Seasoning Chicken
Start by seasoning the cubed chicken thighs with salt and pepper before cooking to enhance flavor.
2. Sautéing
Warm olive oil in a pot over medium heat to sauté the seasoned chicken until it is cooked through and lightly browned.
3. Sweating Aromatics
Cook the chopped onion with a pinch of salt and pepper until it becomes translucent, helping to release its natural sugars and flavor.
4. Building Flavor
Add minced garlic, chopped celery, and carrots to the pot to build layers of flavor through sweating.
5. Creating the Base
Return the chicken to the pot and add spices like garlic powder, onion powder, and red pepper flakes to create a robust flavor base.
6. Boiling
Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil to extract flavors and combine ingredients.
7. Cooking Pasta
Add the star-shaped pasta after the broth is boiling, and cook until the pasta is tender, ensuring it absorbs the soup’s flavor.
8. Adjusting Seasoning
Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper as necessary for a balanced flavor.
FAQ
Can I use other types of pasta?
Yes, you can substitute with other pasta types, but cooking times may vary.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, this soup can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator. Just reheat before serving.
Is this recipe suitable for freezing?
Yes, you can freeze the soup. It’s best to add the pasta after thawing and reheating to prevent it from becoming mushy.
Can I add other vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to add your favorite vegetables, such as spinach or bell peppers.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Conclusion
This hearty chicken soup with star-shaped pasta is not only comforting but also packed with flavor and nutrition. The combination of tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and aromatic spices creates a delightful dish that warms the soul. It’s a perfect meal for any occasion, whether you’re feeding a family or enjoying a quiet evening at home.
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