There’s something undeniably comforting about a warm bowl of chicken soup. It’s a classic recipe that transcends generations, often associated with care and warmth—perfect for cold winter nights or when you’re feeling under the weather. With my own family, a steaming pot of chicken soup was always our go-to during family gatherings or quiet evenings at home. This easy, nourishing dish is sure to become a cherished recipe in your kitchen, too!
Why You’ll Love This Dish
What makes this chicken soup truly special? First and foremost, it’s a delightful balance of flavors and textures, featuring tender shredded chicken, hearty pasta, and vibrant vegetables. This recipe is quick and budget-friendly—ideal for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings. It’s also a crowd-pleaser, perfect for kids who often delight in the fun shapes of ditalini pasta!
“This soup is my new favorite! So easy to make and reminds me of my grandmother’s recipe. Absolutely delicious.” – Happy Home Cook
The Cooking Process Explained
Creating homemade chicken soup is simpler than you might think. Just gather your ingredients, follow along with the steps, and you’ll have a steaming pot of comfort ready in no time. Here’s a quick rundown of the process: sauté your vegetables to infuse the broth with flavor, add the chicken and pasta, and let everything come together in a bubbling pot. It’s as straightforward as that!
Gather These Items
To create this beloved chicken soup, you will need the following ingredients:
- 1 lb shredded chicken
- 1 cup ditalini pasta
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil
Feel free to swap in leftover chicken or a different type of pasta if you’re in a pinch; it’s versatile!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Ready to get cooking? Here’s how you can whip up this delightful chicken soup:
- Heat Olive Oil: In a large pot, pour in the olive oil and warm it over medium heat.
- Sauté Vegetables: Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté until the vegetables are softened, about 5 minutes.
- Add Aromatics: Stir in the minced garlic and thyme, letting them cook for an additional minute to release their flavors.
- Pour in Broth: Carefully add the chicken broth and bring it to a rolling boil.
- Cook Pasta: Add the ditalini pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente.
- Combine Chicken: Once the pasta is slightly firm, add the shredded chicken back into the pot.
- Season: Taste your soup and season it with salt and pepper to your liking.
- Serve Hot: Ladle the soup into bowls and enjoy it warm!
Best Ways to Enjoy It
Chicken soup is incredibly versatile when it comes to serving. You can garnish it with fresh parsley or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan for added flavor. It pairs wonderfully with crusty bread for dipping, or a simple side salad for a complete meal.
Keeping Leftovers Fresh
Storing your chicken soup is easy! Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers. You can refrigerate it for up to 3-4 days or freeze it for up to 3 months. Just make sure to leave some space in the container; soups can expand when frozen. To reheat, simply simmer on the stove until warmed through.
Helpful Cooking Tips
For the best flavors, consider adding a bay leaf during the cooking process, and don’t be shy with the seasoning—you can always adjust to taste at the end. Make sure to cook the pasta al dente, as it will continue to soften after you add the chicken.
Creative Twists
Feeling adventurous? You can experiment with different spices such as rosemary or basil for a unique flavor profile. Consider subbing in quinoa or brown rice for a nutritious twist. For a creamy version, try adding a splash of heavy cream at the end.
Your Questions Answered
1. How long does it take to prepare?
This Chicken Soup takes about 30-40 minutes from start to finish.
2. Can I use rotisserie chicken?
Absolutely! It saves time and adds fantastic flavor.
3. What if I don’t have ditalini pasta?
You can substitute it with any small pasta like elbow macaroni or orzo.
4. Is it possible to make this soup in advance?
Yes! The flavors improve as it sits, making it perfect for meal prep.
5. Can I freeze the leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze chicken soup for up to 3 months. Just store it in airtight containers.
6. What other vegetables can I add?
Feel free to incorporate peas, corn, or spinach for extra nourishment.
7. How do I thicken the soup if desired?
A cornstarch slurry (mixing cornstarch and water) or adding a potato can help thicken the soup.
8. Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes! Simply substitute vegetable broth and use beans or tofu for protein.
For further culinary inspiration, don’t forget to check out our related articles:
- How to Make Homemade Broth
- Creative Soup Recipes for Cold Days
- Quick Family Dinners
- Understanding Herbs and Spices
- Flavorful Pasta Recipes
- Cooking with Leftovers
- Host the Perfect Soup Night
- Healthy Comfort Foods
Now that you’re equipped with this delightful Chicken Soup recipe, it’s time to savor the warmth and flavor it brings to your table! Happy cooking!
Homemade Chicken Soup
Ingredients
Method
- In a large pot, pour in the olive oil and warm it over medium heat.
- Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté until the vegetables are softened, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the minced garlic and thyme, letting them cook for an additional minute to release their flavors.
- Carefully add the chicken broth and bring it to a rolling boil.
- Add the ditalini pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente.
- Once the pasta is slightly firm, add the shredded chicken back into the pot.
- Taste your soup and season it with salt and pepper to your liking.
- Ladle the soup into bowls and enjoy it warm!
Notes
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