This Chicken and Vegetable Pasta Soup is a hearty and flavorful meal that’s perfect for a quick dinner or a satisfying lunch. The combination of tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and pasta in a savory broth makes this dish a family favorite. It’s easy to make and packed with nutrients, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 6 chicken drumsticks
- 1 tbsp butter
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery sticks, chopped
- 1 onion, chopped
- 800 ml chicken stock (2 large cups)
- 2 tsp mixed herbs
- 100 g pasta (your choice)
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
- Sear the Chicken: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the 2 tablespoons of olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter over medium-high heat. Add the chicken drumsticks and sear them until they are golden brown on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. This step locks in the juices and enhances the flavor of the chicken. Once seared, remove the chicken from the pot and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
- Cook the Vegetables: In the same pot, add 1 tablespoon of butter. Once melted, add the chopped carrots, celery, and onion. Sauté the vegetables over medium heat until they are tender and the onions are translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent them from sticking to the bottom of the pot.
Step 3: Add the Broth and Chicken
- Combine Ingredients: Return the seared chicken drumsticks to the pot with the sautéed vegetables. Pour in the chicken stock, ensuring that the chicken and vegetables are fully submerged. If needed, add a bit more stock or water to cover.
- Season: Add the 2 teaspoons of mixed herbs, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir to combine all the ingredients.
Step 4: Simmer the Soup
- Simmer: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let the soup simmer for about 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the flavors have melded together.
Step 5: Cook the Pasta
- Add the Pasta: While the soup is simmering, cook the pasta separately according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
Step 6: Assemble the Soup
- Combine: Once the chicken is fully cooked, remove the drumsticks from the pot. Allow them to cool slightly, then remove the meat from the bones. Shred the chicken meat and return it to the pot.
- Add Pasta: Stir in the cooked pasta and let the soup simmer for an additional 5 minutes to allow the flavors to combine.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
- Final Touch: Before serving, stir in the fresh chopped parsley. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.
- Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and serve hot. Enjoy the comforting and hearty flavors of this delicious chicken and vegetable pasta soup.
Tips for Success
- Chicken: For a richer flavor, use bone-in chicken pieces like drumsticks or thighs. The bones add depth to the broth.
- Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables you like, such as zucchini, spinach, or peas, to enhance the nutritional value and flavor.
- Pasta: Small pasta shapes like ditalini, orzo, or macaroni work best for this soup as they are easy to eat with a spoon.
- Stock: Homemade chicken stock will make this soup even more flavorful. If using store-bought, choose a low-sodium variety so you can control the saltiness of the soup.
Variations
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta or rice instead of regular pasta to make the soup gluten-free.
- Creamy Version: Add a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of sour cream to the soup just before serving for a creamy texture.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño for a bit of heat.
Storage and Reheating
- Storage: Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat the soup on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through. If the soup has thickened too much, add a bit more chicken stock or water to reach the desired consistency.
This Super Quick, Easy, and Delicious Chicken and Vegetable Pasta Soup is a fantastic recipe for any home cook. It’s nutritious, flavorful, and simple to make, making it a perfect choice for a comforting meal any day of the week. Whether you’re serving it as a main dish or a starter, this soup is sure to satisfy and impress your family and friends. Enjoy the hearty goodness of homemade soup with minimal effort and maximum flavor!
