Chicken pastina soup is a warm, comforting dish that seems to wrap you in a cozy embrace with every spoonful. This delightful soup blends tender shreds of chicken with tiny pasta shapes, aromatic vegetables, and savory chicken stock, making it a beloved favorite for many families. Whether you’re feeling under the weather or just in the mood for something hearty and satisfying, chicken pastina soup is sure to hit the spot.
Why We Love This Chicken Pastina Soup Recipe
There’s something undeniably comforting about a bowl of chicken pastina soup. The combination of tender chicken, soft pasta, and flavorful broth creates a harmonious blend that warms the soul. It’s an easy recipe that doesn’t require gourmet cooking skills, making it accessible for anyone to whip up. You can enjoy it as a weeknight dinner or as a simple, nourishing meal on a lazy weekend. Each ingredient plays a role in forming the kind of soup that you’ll want to return to again and again, especially when seeking warmth and care in a dish.
Ingredients about Chicken Pastina Soup
- 2 cups shredded chicken breasts
- 1 cup small pasta shapes (pastina)
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 4 cups chicken stock
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for sautéing
How to Make Chicken Pastina Soup Directions
Making chicken pastina soup is a straightforward process, and it all begins with successfully preparing your vegetables. Start by taking a large pot and heating a couple of tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is warm, toss in the diced onions, carrots, and celery. These vegetables will form the aromatic base of your soup. Sauté them for about 5-7 minutes or until they soften. You want them to start releasing their flavors, which will contribute to the deliciousness of the broth.
Next, pour in the chicken stock. This is where the magic happens – the broth will start to bubble and bring everything together. Increase the heat a bit to bring the stock to a rolling boil. Once boiling, you’ll want to add the small pasta shapes. Pastina cooks quickly, so make sure to follow the timing mentioned on the package. Stir occasionally, ensuring the pasta doesn’t stick.
When the pastina is cooked al dente, incorporate the shredded chicken into the pot. Stir well to blend all the ingredients and let it heat through for a couple of minutes. At this stage, it’s time to taste and season with salt and pepper according to your preference. Remember, the chicken stock often contains salt, so you might want to go easy on the added salt at first.
Finally, once everything is heated and well-seasoned, ladle the soup into bowls and prepare yourself for a delightful meal. It’s comfort in a bowl, and with just a few simple steps, you’ve created something substantial that can nourish the body and soul.
How to Serve Chicken Pastina Soup
Serving chicken pastina soup is as enjoyable as making it. Start by ladling a generous portion into shallow bowls. This cozy soup is perfect on its own or accompanied by a fresh salad or crusty bread. Consider adding a sprinkle of freshly grated parmesan cheese on top for an extra layer of flavor. You might also enhance the meal by serving it with a side of garlic bread to dip into the broth.
For a lovely presentation, garnish each bowl with fresh herbs like parsley or thyme, if you have them on hand. This not only adds color but can also elevate the taste of the soup. When serving a larger crowd, consider placing the pot in the center of the table, allowing everyone to serve themselves. This adds a communal feel to the meal, making it even more enjoyable.
Expert Tips: Chicken Pastina Soup
To ensure your chicken pastina soup turns out fabulously every time, here are some expert tips to consider:
- Use Homemade Stock: If you have the time, using homemade chicken stock will boost the soup’s depth of flavor. It makes a noticeable difference compared to store-bought varieties.
- Leftover Chicken: Use leftover rotisserie chicken or any cooked chicken you have on hand. This can save time and enhance the flavor with little effort.
- Vegetable Variations: Feel free to add other vegetables, like spinach or peas, for more nutrition and color. These can be added in the last few minutes of cooking so they retain their vibrant colors and nutrients.
- Don’t Overcook the Pasta: To maintain the pasta’s texture, be watchful while cooking. Pastina should be tender yet still have a slight bite.
- Adjust for Thickness: If you prefer a thicker soup, you can reduce the amount of stock or add a bit more pasta. Conversely, for a lighter soup, increase the stock amount.
How to Store Chicken Pastina Soup
Storing your chicken pastina soup is quite simple. Once the soup has cooled, pour it into an airtight container. You can refrigerate it for up to three days. When reheating, make sure to do so gradually over low heat to maintain the flavors and textures of the ingredients.
If you want to store the soup for a longer period, consider freezing it. Place the cooled soup in freezer-safe containers, leaving some space for expansion as it freezes. It can be stored in the freezer for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat gently.
Variation of Chicken Pastina Soup
Chicken pastina soup offers plenty of room for creativity, and there are numerous variations you can try to keep things exciting.
- Italian Herbs: Add a combination of Italian herbs such as oregano, basil, and thyme for a fragrant infusion that will elevate the flavor profile.
- Creamy Version: For a creamier soup, stir in a splash of cream or milk at the end of cooking, giving your soup a rich texture and taste.
- Spices: Introduce different spices such as garlic powder, paprika, or cayenne for an aromatic twist.
- Lemon Zest: If you’re in the mood for something bright, a bit of grated lemon zest or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice can brighten the overall flavor of the soup.
- Vegetarian Option: You can create a vegetarian version of this soup by replacing chicken stock with vegetable stock and omitting chicken altogether. Consider adding chickpeas for protein.
- Add Greens: Incorporating fresh greens like kale or swiss chard can introduce essential nutrients and a beautiful pop of color.
FAQ
What is chicken pastina soup?
Chicken pastina soup is a comforting dish made with shredded chicken, small pasta shapes, and aromatic vegetables simmered in chicken stock.
How long does it take to make chicken pastina soup?
The entire process takes approximately 30-40 minutes, making it a quick yet satisfying meal.
Can I use leftover chicken for this soup?
Absolutely! Using leftover chicken or rotisserie chicken can save time and add delicious flavor to the soup.
What herbs can I use to enhance the flavor of chicken pastina soup?
Herbs like thyme, basil, and parsley work wonderfully to add depth to the soup. You can also use Italian seasoning for a blend of flavors.
How do I store chicken pastina soup?
Allow the soup to cool then store it in an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to three days or frozen for up to three months.
Can I modify the recipe to make it healthier?
Yes! You can use whole-grain pastina and add more vegetables for added nutrition. Consider using low-sodium chicken stock as well.
Is chicken pastina soup suitable for kids?
Sure! The comforting taste and small pasta shapes make chicken pastina soup a kid-friendly meal, perfect for even the pickiest eaters.
Enjoy diving into the warmth and satisfaction that chicken pastina soup brings. It’s a classic that combines the simplicity of wholesome ingredients with the joy of homemade cooking!
Chicken Pastina Soup
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups shredded chicken breasts
- 1 cup small pasta shapes (pastina)
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 stalks celery, diced
- 4 cups chicken stock Use homemade for better flavor, if available.
- Salt and pepper to taste Be cautious with salt as chicken stock may already contain it.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil For sautéing.
Instructions
Preparation
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add diced onions, carrots, and celery to the pot and sauté for about 5-7 minutes until softened.
- Pour in the chicken stock and increase the heat to bring it to a rolling boil.
- Once boiling, add small pasta shapes and cook according to package instructions, stirring occasionally.
- When pastina is al dente, incorporate the shredded chicken and heat through for a couple of minutes.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste and serve in bowls.
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