If you are craving a comforting bowl of warmth that’s both playful and nourishing, this Chicken and Stars Soup Recipe is an absolute must-try. Filled with tender shredded chicken, vibrant vegetables, and adorable mini star-shaped pasta, it’s a dish that feels like a warm hug from the inside out. This soup is easy to make, deeply flavorful, and perfect for cozy family dinners or whenever you need a little pick-me-up. Its bright notes of lemon and fresh parsley elevate the classic flavors, making every spoonful delightfully fresh and satisfying.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a close-up view of many small, uncooked pasta pieces shaped like tiny yellow flowers with a hole in the center. They are piled inside a clear plastic bag that is open at the top, revealing the pasta inside. The pasta pieces have a smooth, dry texture with a matte finish and are tightly packed together. The photo is taken on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The magic of this Chicken and Stars Soup Recipe lies in its simple but essential ingredients, each thoughtfully chosen to build a symphony of flavors, textures, and colors. From the sweetness of the onions and carrots to the savory depth of the chicken stock and parmesan rind, every element plays a key role in turning humble basics into something extraordinary.

3 tablespoons unsalted butter: This adds richness and helps soften your vegetables to release their sweetness.
1 sweet onion, diced: Brings a mildly sweet and aromatic base that melts beautifully into the soup.
3 carrots, peeled and diced: Adds vibrant color and a hint of natural sweetness that balances the savory notes.
2 celery sticks, diced: Offers subtle earthiness and crunch that enhances the texture.
3 garlic cloves, minced: Garlic infuses the soup with a gentle savory aroma and depth.
Kosher salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning and elevating every ingredient’s natural flavor.
½ teaspoon poultry seasoning: A fragrant blend that complements the chicken and brings warmth to the broth.
1 ½ cups cooked, shredded chicken: Tender protein that makes this soup hearty and satisfying.
7 to 8 cups chicken stock: The soul of the soup, creating a rich, flavorful liquid foundation.
1 parmesan cheese rind: Adds a subtle umami and creamy undertone to deepen the broth.
1 cup uncooked stelline pasta (mini pasta stars): Cute and fun, these tiny stars provide a delightful bite and visual charm.
1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice: Brightens the soup with a fresh, tangy lift that cuts through the richness.
3 tablespoons fresh parsley, plus more for topping: Brings a fresh herbal note that brightens every spoonful.
Parmesan cheese for topping: Adds a final savory boost that melts beautifully on warm soup.
Lemon wedges for spritzing: Offers guests the opportunity to customize their bowl with a splash of zesty brightness.

How to Make Chicken and Stars Soup Recipe

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables and Aromatics

Begin by melting butter in a large stockpot over medium-low heat. Toss in the diced sweet onion, carrots, and celery, seasoning generously with kosher salt and pepper—remember, these first moments build the flavor foundation. Stir occasionally and cook until the vegetables become tender and fragrant. Then, add minced garlic and poultry seasoning for an aromatic lift, followed by your shredded chicken, letting it all mingle beautifully in the pot.

Step 2: Build the Broth

Pour in 7 cups of chicken stock along with the parmesan cheese rind, which will melt slowly to add rich umami notes. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil before reducing it to a simmer. This slow and steady simmer lets the flavors meld perfectly.

Step 3: Cook the Pasta Stars

Stir in the stelline pasta and cook uncovered, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is al dente, about 8 minutes. This gives you that perfect tender yet slightly firm texture that complements the soft chicken and veggies wonderfully.

Step 4: Brighten and Season

Add freshly squeezed lemon juice and chopped parsley to the pot for a bright, fresh flavor kick. Taste your soup and adjust the seasoning with extra salt and pepper if needed. If the parmesan rind hasn’t fully dissolved, you can scoop it out now. At this point, feel free to add the additional cup of chicken stock if you prefer a lighter broth, as the pasta tends to soak it up as it sits.

Step 5: Serve It Up!

Dish out your warm, comforting soup into bowls. Garnish with extra parsley, a sprinkle of parmesan cheese, and a lemon wedge on the side for that final burst of freshness. Every spoonful of this Chicken and Stars Soup Recipe is like a little celebration of flavors and textures.

How to Serve Chicken and Stars Soup Recipe

A close-up view inside a gray cooking pot shows a layer of finely chopped vegetables at the bottom, with bright orange carrots and green celery mixed with small bits of white onion, all chopped small and evenly spread out. On top of the vegetables is a pile of shredded light beige cooked chicken, with tender, stringy pieces layered loosely. A single piece of light brown bone sits near the center above the shredded chicken. The pot rests on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Simple garnishes bring this soup to the next level. Freshly chopped parsley adds a pop of vibrant green and herbal brightness, while a generous grate of parmesan cheese on top melts slowly into the warm broth, creating inviting pockets of salty creaminess. A spritz of lemon juice right before eating brings a cheerful zing that lifts the entire bowl.

Side Dishes

This Chicken and Stars Soup Recipe pairs beautifully with crusty artisan bread to soak up every last drop of broth, or a crisp green salad with a lemon vinaigrette for a light, refreshing contrast. You can also serve it alongside garlic breadsticks for a cozy, indulgent meal everyone will love.

Creative Ways to Present

Consider serving this soup in charming bowls with star-themed napkins or spoons to highlight the stelline pasta. For kids or special occasions, adding tiny edible flowers or swapping the pasta stars for fun shapes can turn this soup into a delightful centerpiece. Warm soup mugs also make it perfect for casual gatherings or simply enjoying on a chilly evening.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftover Chicken and Stars Soup Recipe, store the soup and pasta separately for best results. The pasta will soak up broth and become mushy if left in the soup overnight. Keep the broth in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days, and store cooked pasta in a separate container.

Freezing

This soup freezes wonderfully if you hold off on adding the pasta. Freeze the broth with chicken and vegetables in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. When ready to use, thaw overnight and cook fresh stelline pasta to add just before serving.

Reheating

Reheat the soup broth gently over medium heat on the stove until steaming hot. Add pre-cooked or freshly boiled star pasta right before serving to keep the texture perfect. If reheating leftovers in the microwave, add the pasta separately after heating for best results.

FAQs

Can I use other types of pasta instead of stelline?

Absolutely! While stelline pasta is adorable and perfect for this recipe, small pasta shapes like orzo, ditalini, or tiny shells will work beautifully and soak up the broth just as well.

What can I substitute for poultry seasoning?

If you don’t have poultry seasoning, try a mix of dried sage, thyme, and a pinch of nutmeg. These herbs will provide a similar warm, savory profile that complements the chicken and vegetables.

Can I make this soup vegetarian?

Definitely! Substitute the shredded chicken with cooked chickpeas or cubed tofu and use vegetable broth instead of chicken stock. The parmesan rind will add a nice depth of flavor—just ensure your cheese is vegetarian-friendly.

Is it better to use homemade chicken stock?

Homemade chicken stock adds incredible depth and a richer flavor, but high-quality store-bought broth also works excellent if you’re short on time. Either way, your soup will be comforting and delicious.

Why is lemon juice added to the soup?

Lemon juice provides a bright, fresh contrast to the richness of the broth and chicken, balancing the flavors and awakening the palate with every spoonful.

Final Thoughts

This Chicken and Stars Soup Recipe is truly a heartfelt classic with a playful twist, perfect for lifting spirits and filling bellies with love. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or simply craving a cozy meal for yourself, this soup delivers comfort, flavor, and a touch of whimsy in every bowl. I can’t wait for you to try it and make it your own go-to recipe for any occasion!