Ingredients:

  Amount  Measure       Ingredient -- Preparation Method
--------  ------------  --------------------------------
   1      12 oz pkg     tree-shaped colored pasta
   1      cup           carrots -- chopped
   1      cup           onion -- chopped
   1      cup           celery -- chopped
   2                    chicken breasts -- skinned
   6      cups          chicken broth
   6      cups          water
   1 1/2  cloves        fresh garlic
   1      teaspoon      salt
     1/2  tablespoon    thyme
     1/2  teaspoon      black pepper
                        garnish with chopped fresh parsley -- (optional)

Preparation:

Place all of the ingredients except for the pasta trees and parsley in a soup pot. Bring to a boil, cover and simmer for 45 minutes, stirring occasionally to avoid scorching. After 45 minutes, remove chicken breasts, cool slightly, and remove the meat from the bones. Bring the soup to a boil and add the past a tress. Cook 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is done to your liking. Add the chicken meat back. Pour into bowls and garnish with parsley if desired. Serve hot.