Why Make This Recipe
Chicken soup is a comforting dish that brings warmth to any meal. It is easy to make, packed with flavor, and filling. This recipe is perfect for chilly days or when you need a cozy meal. Plus, it’s a great way to use leftover chicken, making it both delicious and economical.
How to Make Chicken Soup
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 tsp thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil
Directions:
- In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in garlic and thyme. Cook for another minute.
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil.
- Add ditalini pasta and cook according to package instructions.
- Stir in the shredded chicken and season with salt and pepper.
- Simmer for a few minutes until everything is heated through.
- Serve warm.
How to Serve Chicken Soup
Serve chicken soup warm in bowls. You can add a sprinkle of fresh herbs, or a squeeze of lemon for a fresh touch. It’s also nice to have some crusty bread or crackers on the side for dipping.
How to Store Chicken Soup
To store chicken soup, let it cool completely and then transfer it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the fridge for up to 4 days. You can also freeze it. Just make sure to store it in freezer-safe containers, where it will last for up to 3 months.
Tips to Make Chicken Soup
- To save time, use rotisserie chicken instead of cooking your own.
- Feel free to add more vegetables like peas or corn for extra nutrition.
- If you like a thicker soup, add a little more pasta or some potatoes.
Variation
You can make a creamy chicken soup by adding heavy cream or milk toward the end of cooking. For a spicy kick, try adding some red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños.
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken. Just make sure it’s cooked thoroughly before shredding.
2. What if I don’t have ditalini pasta?
You can replace ditalini with any small pasta, like elbow macaroni or even rice.
3. How can I make it gluten-free?
To make gluten-free chicken soup, use gluten-free pasta and ensure your chicken broth is also gluten-free.
Chicken Soup
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb shredded chicken Leftover chicken works well.
- 1 cup ditalini pasta Can substitute with other small pasta.
- 2 pieces carrots, diced Adds sweetness and color.
- 2 stalks celery, diced Provides crunch and flavor.
- 1 piece onion, chopped Base flavor for the soup.
- 4 cups chicken broth Use low-sodium for a healthier option.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced Enhances flavor.
- 1 tsp thyme Can substitute with other herbs.
- to taste Salt and pepper Adjust according to preference.
- as needed Olive oil For sautéing.
Method
Preparation
- In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in garlic and thyme. Cook for another minute.
Cooking
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil.
- Add ditalini pasta and cook according to package instructions.
- Stir in the shredded chicken and season with salt and pepper.
- Simmer for a few minutes until everything is heated through.
- Serve warm.