Chicken Pastina Soup Recipe

A warm bowl of Chicken Pastina Soup Recipe is the perfect remedy for a chilly day or when you’re feeling under the weather. This comforting dish, packed with shredded chicken and tiny pasta, is not only quick to make but also filled with rich flavors that your whole family will love. Whether it’s for a cozy night in or a nourishing meal for sick days, this soup stands out as a versatile and satisfying choice.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This soup can be ready in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Comforting Flavor: The combination of chicken broth, vegetables, and Parmesan cheese creates a rich and hearty taste.
• Customizable Ingredients: Feel free to swap in your favorite small pasta or add extra veggies to suit your preference.
• Nutritious Meal: Packed with protein from the chicken and vitamins from the vegetables, this soup is both healthy and filling.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike enjoy this simple yet delicious soup that brings everyone together.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into making your Chicken Pastina Soup, gather your essential tools. Having everything ready will streamline your cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Measuring cups
• Ladle

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for simmering the soup evenly and accommodating all ingredients without overflow.
• Knife: A sharp knife makes chopping vegetables quick and safe, ensuring uniform pieces that cook evenly.

Ingredients

A quick and comforting Chicken Pastina Soup Recipe made with shredded chicken, tiny pasta, and rich broth. Ready in 30 minutes, perfect for families, sick days, or cozy nights.

Main Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked chicken (shredded, rotisserie recommended)
• 1 cup pastina pasta (or stelline, ditalini, or small pasta)
• 6 cups chicken broth (low-sodium or bone broth)

Vegetables

• 2 tbsp olive oil (extra virgin)
• 1 medium onion (finely diced)
• 2 stalks celery (diced)
• 2 medium carrots (diced)
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)

Finishing Touches

• 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese (freshly grated)
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley (chopped)
• Salt and pepper (to taste)
• 1 bay leaf (optional, adds depth)
• 1/2 tsp dried thyme (optional)
• 1 tbsp tomato paste (optional, for richer flavor)

How to Make Chicken Pastina Soup Recipe

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

Begin by heating 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the finely diced onion, diced celery, and diced carrots.
1. Cook for 5-6 minutes until softened.
2. Add minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute until fragrant.

Step 2: Add Broth and Seasonings

Pour in the 6 cups of chicken broth along with optional bay leaf. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
1. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
2. Let it cook for about 10 minutes to allow flavors to meld.

Step 3: Cook the Pasta

Add the pastina pasta directly to the soup.
1. Cook according to package instructions (approximately 6-8 minutes).
2. Stir in the shredded chicken during the last minute of cooking to heat through.

Step 4: Finish with Cheese and Herbs

Remove from heat once the pasta is cooked.
1. Stir in freshly grated Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley before serving hot.
2. Adjust seasoning if needed before ladling into bowls.

With these simple steps, your delightful Chicken Pastina Soup Recipe will be ready to enjoy!

How to Serve Chicken Pastina Soup Recipe

Serving Chicken Pastina Soup is a delightful experience that can be customized to fit your family’s tastes. Whether you’re enjoying it on a cozy night or serving it to friends, here are some tasty suggestions to elevate your meal.

With Fresh Bread

• Crusty Bread: Pair the soup with a loaf of fresh crusty bread for dipping.
• Garlic Bread: Serve warm garlic bread for an extra layer of flavor.

Topped with Greens

• Fresh Spinach: Add a handful of fresh spinach on top for color and nutrition.
• Chopped Parsley: A sprinkle of parsley enhances the dish’s appearance and adds freshness.

Accompanied by Salad

• Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad complements the soup well with its creamy dressing.
• Mixed Green Salad: A light mixed green salad provides a refreshing contrast to the warmth of the soup.

With Cheese

• Parmesan Shavings: Extra Parmesan on top adds richness and depth to each bowl.
• Cheddar Cheese: Melt some cheddar for a gooey, comforting touch.

How to Perfect Chicken Pastina Soup Recipe

To ensure your Chicken Pastina Soup is always perfect, consider these helpful tips that enhance flavor and texture.

• Use Quality Broth: Start with a rich, low-sodium chicken broth for the best flavor base.
• Cook Pasta Separately: For a less starchy soup, cook pastina in a separate pot and add it just before serving.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste your soup before serving; adjust salt and pepper based on personal preference.
• Add Fresh Herbs Last: Stir in fresh herbs at the end for vibrant flavor and aroma.
• Store Correctly: If storing leftovers, keep pasta separate from the broth to prevent sogginess.

Best Side Dishes for Chicken Pastina Soup Recipe

Pairing side dishes with your Chicken Pastina Soup can create a complete meal. Here are some fantastic options:

1. Garden Salad: A light salad helps balance the hearty soup, adding freshness.
2. Grilled Cheese Sandwich: The melty goodness of grilled cheese complements the soup perfectly.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies add color and nutrients alongside the soup.
4. Stuffed Peppers: Flavorful stuffed peppers make for an interesting contrast in textures.
5. Pasta Salad: A cold pasta salad offers a refreshing side that complements the warmth of the soup.
6. Cheesy Biscuits: Fluffy biscuits with cheese bring comfort food vibes to your table.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making your Chicken Pastina Soup Recipe, it’s easy to overlook a few key details. Here are some common mistakes and how to avoid them.

• Using the wrong pasta: Choosing larger pasta can alter the texture of your soup. Stick to pastina or small pasta for the best results.
• Overcooking vegetables: Cooking veggies too long can make them mushy. Sauté just until tender before adding the broth.
• Skipping seasoning: Under-seasoning can lead to bland soup. Always taste and adjust salt and pepper during cooking.
• Not using enough broth: Insufficient broth will result in a thick soup. Ensure you follow the recipe for the right amount of liquid.
• Ignoring fresh herbs: Fresh parsley adds brightness. Don’t skip it; add it at the end for maximum flavor.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Allow the soup to cool completely before refrigerating.

Freezing Chicken Pastina Soup Recipe

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
• Leave space at the top of the container as the soup will expand when frozen.

Reheating Chicken Pastina Soup Recipe

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place soup in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20-30 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl. Start with 2 minutes on high, stirring halfway through until hot.
• Stovetop: Place in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring often until warmed through, about 5-10 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some questions many ask about this Chicken Pastina Soup Recipe.

Can I use leftover chicken for this recipe?

Yes! Leftover rotisserie chicken works great and saves time.

How do I make this Chicken Pastina Soup Recipe healthier?

You can add more vegetables like spinach or kale for added nutrients without compromising flavor.

What if I don’t have pastina pasta?

You can substitute with other small pasta types like ditalini or stelline.

Can I make this Chicken Pastina Soup Recipe vegetarian?

Absolutely! Use vegetable broth and replace chicken with beans or lentils for protein.

How long does this soup last in the fridge?

The Chicken Pastina Soup can last up to 3 days when stored properly in an airtight container.

Final Thoughts

This Chicken Pastina Soup Recipe is not only quick to prepare but also comforting and delicious. It’s perfect for family dinners or when you’re feeling under the weather. Feel free to customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or spices to make it your own!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Chicken Pastina Soup Recipe

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• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x

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Description

Chicken Pastina Soup is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for chilly days or when you’re feeling under the weather. This warm, nourishing soup combines tender shredded chicken and tiny pasta in a flavorful broth, making it a family favorite that’s quick to prepare in just 30 minutes. With its rich taste and customizable ingredients, this easy recipe is ideal for weeknight dinners or cozy nights at home. Enjoy a bowl of this hearty soup with fresh bread or a side salad for a complete meal that warms your soul!

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 cups cooked shredded chicken (preferably rotisserie)
• 1 cup pastina pasta (or substitute with small pasta like stelline or ditalini)
• 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• 1 medium onion (finely diced)
• 2 stalks celery (diced)
• 2 medium carrots (diced)
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• Fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)

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Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Sauté onion, celery, and carrots until softened, about 5-6 minutes. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
2. Pour in chicken broth and add salt and pepper to taste. Bring to a simmer and let cook for 10 minutes.
3. Add pastina pasta and cook according to package instructions, about 6-8 minutes. Stir in shredded chicken during the last minute of cooking.
4. Remove from heat and stir in Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley right before serving.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Simmering
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 bowl (approximately 300g)
• Calories: 290
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 890mg
• Fat: 9g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 34g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 20g
• Cholesterol: 65mg