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Italian Chicken Pastina Soup is a comforting dish that warms both body and soul. With its rich flavors and tender ingredients, it’s perfect for chilly evenings or when you need a little extra nourishment. This classic dish is known affectionately as “Italian Grandmother’s Penicillin Soup,” thanks to its ability to soothe and heal.
Many people search for this recipe because of its simplicity and the readily available ingredients that allow you to whip it up in no time. It’s an excellent solution for feeding a family or preparing a delicious meal for guests without spending hours in the kitchen.
Why Make This Recipe
This Italian Chicken Pastina Soup is not just easy to prepare, but it also brings the essence of Italian comfort cooking to your home. The ingredients are straightforward and often found in your pantry, making it a practical choice for busy weeknights. The total time required is under an hour, allowing you to serve a homemade soup that feels truly special.
Additionally, it’s versatile for various occasions. Whether you’re hosting a cozy dinner or preparing a family meal, this soup is sure to please everyone at the table.
How to Make Italian Chicken Pastina Soup
Making Italian Chicken Pastina Soup involves simply layering flavors through a mix of sautéing, simmering, and blending. By sautéing the vegetables first, you build a flavorful base that maximizes taste. The choice to puree the broth creates a velvety texture, making every spoonful satisfying. Finally, adding the pastina and chicken brings everything together in a delightful, hearty dish.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 large onion (diced small)
- 1 large shallot (finely chopped)
- 4 stalks celery (diced small)
- 1 large yellow bell pepper (diced small)
- 4 medium cloves garlic (minced)
- 8 cups low-sodium chicken broth (maybe more)
- 1 pound carrots (diced small)
- 1 parmesan rind ((optional))
- 1 ½ teaspoons kosher salt (more to taste)
- ⅓ cup uncooked pastina (tiny pasta, double if you like a lot of pasta)
- 2½ -3 cups rotisserie or leftover chicken
- grated Parmesan (for serving)
- finely chopped fresh rosemary and/or fresh thyme leaves
Directions
- Heat a large Dutch oven or soup pot over medium heat.
- Add the oil, butter, onion, shallot, celery, and bell pepper and stir to combine.
- Cook for 4-5 minutes or until the onions are translucent, stirring occasionally.
- Add the garlic, stir well, and cook for another 2 minutes.
- Add the broth, carrots, parmesan rind (if using), and salt.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce to a steady simmer and cook for 20-25 minutes (uncovered) or until the veggies are nice and tender.
- Remove the parmesan rind if you used one.
- With a slotted spoon, remove 2 cups of the diced veggies and set aside.
- With an immersion blender (or a regular blender), puree the broth/vegetable mixture in the pot until smooth.
- NOTE: If you use a regular blender, be sure to let the mixture cool down a bit before blending. Also, remove the center cap on the blender top and cover it with a clean kitchen towel or several thicknesses of paper towels. This will allow the heat to vent and prevent it from building up.
- Add the pasta, bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce to a steady simmer.
- Cook, uncovered, for whatever time on your bag or box of pastina instructs. (Acini de pepe takes 9 minutes.)
- Add the rotisserie (or leftover) chicken and the reserved veggies. Stir to combine.
- Cover and allow the soup to rest for 20 minutes.
- Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning, adding more salt if needed.
- Serve with grated parmesan, a scatter of finely chopped fresh rosemary or fresh thyme leaves (or both), and fresh ground black pepper. Enjoy!
How to Serve Italian Chicken Pastina Soup
This delightful soup serves well as a main dish on its own, but you can elevate the experience by pairing it with crusty bread or a simple green salad. For drinks, consider serving a glass of crisp white wine or sparkling water with lemon. A sprinkle of additional fresh herbs right before serving adds a touch of color and freshness to your bowl.
How to Store Italian Chicken Pastina Soup
Store any leftover Italian Chicken Pastina Soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you wish to keep it longer, consider freezing it. In the freezer, this soup can last up to 3 months. To prevent the pasta from becoming mushy, you might want to store the pasta separately and add it when reheating. Always allow the soup to cool before freezing to maintain the best flavor and texture.
Tips to Make Italian Chicken Pastina Soup
Start with high-quality ingredients for the best flavor.
Feel free to adjust the herbs and spices according to your taste preferences.
Adding more vegetables, such as spinach or peas, can enhance the soup’s nutrition.
You can use homemade chicken broth to amplify the flavor.
Consider using different types of pasta if you cannot find pastina.
For a thicker soup, reduce the amount of broth slightly.
Garnish with fresh herbs just before serving for bright flavor.
Watch the cooking time of the pastina to maintain its texture.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
One common mistake is overcooking the vegetables, which can result in a mushy texture. To avoid this, keep an eye on the cooking time and check for tenderness. Another mistake is not seasoning adequately—always taste the soup before serving and adjust the salt to your preference.
Variations
You can easily adapt this recipe by changing the vegetables based on seasonality or personal preference. For a spicier kick, try adding red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce.
FAQs
Can I use frozen vegetables in Italian Chicken Pastina Soup?
Yes, frozen vegetables can be substituted; just add them when instructed in the recipe.
Can I make this soup vegetarian?
Absolutely! Simply omit the chicken and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
What is pastina?
Pastina is a very small type of pasta often used in soups; it’s perfect for creating a comforting texture.
Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes, it can be made a day in advance; simply store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve.
How do I reheat leftover soup?
Reheat on the stove over medium heat until warmed through, adding a bit more broth if needed.
What should I pair with this soup?
Pair it with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
How can I enhance the flavor of the broth?
Consider adding herbs like thyme or bay leaves during the simmering process for extra depth.
What can I use if I don’t have pastina?
Other small pasta shapes can be used, but adjust the cooking time as needed.