Instructions: This homey soup shows just how quickly you can make chicken broth in the microwave. It also shows off the microwaves fabulous way with vegetables; they not only keep more color but also retain more vitamins.

1. Combine water and chicken in a 3-quart casserole. Cover with lid; microwave at high 30 minutes or until chicken is done, stirring after 15 minutes. Drain in a colander over a bowl, reserving cooking liquid. Cool chicken slightly. Remove chicken from bones, and discard bones. Shred chicken with 2 forks to measure 2-1/2 cups.

2. Combine broccoli and next 4 ingredients (broccoli through basil) in casserole. Cover; microwave at high 8 minutes or until tender, stirring after 4 minutes. Add the reserved cooking liquid, chicken, pasta, salt, and pepper. Cover; microwave at high 6 minutes or until pasta is tender. Ladle soup into 6 bowls. Sprinkle each serving with cheese.

Yield: 6 servings (serving size: 1 cup soup and 1 tablespoon cheese).

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