Chicken Pastina Soup

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Chicken Pastina Soup is the ultimate comfort food. The small, tiny pastina pasta absorbs the delicious, rich chicken broth, making every spoonful satisfying. The addition of tender chicken and fresh vegetables gives the soup heartiness without being too heavy. This soup is light yet filling, simple yet flavorful, and it’s incredibly easy to make. It’s a family-friendly dish that’s ideal for serving to kids, adults, or anyone looking for a cozy bowl of goodness.

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 1 small onion, chopped

• 2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced

• 2 celery stalks, chopped

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 6 cups chicken broth

• 2 cups cooked chicken (shredded or diced)

• 1 cup pastina pasta

• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften.

2. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.

3. Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil.

4. Once the broth is boiling, lower the heat to a simmer and add the shredded chicken, pastina pasta, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.

5. Simmer for 8-10 minutes, or until the pastina pasta is tender and fully cooked.

6. Taste the soup and adjust seasoning if needed.

7. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh chopped parsley if desired.

8. Serve hot and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4-6 servings

• Preparation Time: 10 minutes

• Cooking Time: 20 minutes

• Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Add vegetables: You can add peas, spinach, or zucchini for extra flavor and nutrients.

• Make it creamy: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or half-and-half for a creamy version of this soup.

• Use a different pasta: If you can’t find pastina, any small pasta like orzo or acini di pepe will work as a substitute.

• Add cheese: Grated Parmesan or a sprinkle of mozzarella can add a cheesy richness to the soup.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Reheating: Reheat the soup over medium heat on the stovetop. If the pasta absorbs too much broth while stored, add extra chicken broth or water to thin it back out.

FAQs

1. Can I use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken?

Yes, rotisserie chicken works wonderfully in this recipe and will save you time on cooking the chicken.

2. What if I can’t find pastina pasta?

If you can’t find pastina, substitute with any tiny pasta like orzo, acini di pepe, or even small elbow macaroni.

3. Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes! This soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It also freezes well (but keep in mind that the pasta may soften slightly when reheated).

4. Can I make this soup with a homemade chicken broth?

Absolutely! Homemade chicken broth will add a deeper, richer flavor to the soup. Just make sure to season it properly to balance the flavors.

5. Can I freeze Chicken Pastina Soup?

Yes, you can freeze the soup, but be aware that the pasta may soften slightly after thawing and reheating. It’s best to freeze the soup without the pasta and add freshly cooked pasta when you’re ready to serve.

6. Can I add other herbs to this soup?

Definitely! You can add fresh or dried basil, oregano, or rosemary for extra flavor. Just be sure not to overwhelm the soup with too many herbs.

7. How do I keep the soup from getting too salty?

If you’re using store-bought chicken broth, opt for a low-sodium version to avoid an overly salty soup. You can always adjust the salt levels toward the end of cooking.

8. Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?

Yes, you can! To make it in a slow cooker, sauté the vegetables and garlic first, then add everything to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 4-6 hours, or until the pasta is tender.

9. How can I make this soup heartier?

For a heartier version, you can add more chicken, extra vegetables, or use a larger pasta shape that will absorb more of the broth.

10. Can I add lemon to brighten the flavor?

Yes! A squeeze of fresh lemon juice just before serving can help brighten the flavors and add a nice contrast to the richness of the broth.

Conclusion

Chicken Pastina Soup is the perfect dish for when you’re looking for something light, comforting, and easy to prepare. With tender chicken, small pasta, and a flavorful broth, this soup is as nourishing as it is delicious. Whether you’re serving it on a chilly day, making it for your family, or enjoying it when you’re feeling under the weather, this soup is sure to become a staple in your recipe collection. Simple, wholesome, and packed with flavor, Chicken Pastina Soup is the ultimate comfort food.