Italian Chicken Pastina Soup is a warm, comforting dish that captures the essence of cozy family meals. With its rich flavors and nourishing ingredients, this soup is perfect for chilly evenings or when you’re feeling under the weather. It has become a staple in my household, especially when we have leftover rotisserie chicken to transform into something magical.
Reasons to try it
You’ll love this dish for its heartiness and simplicity. It effortlessly combines the wholesome goodness of fresh vegetables and tender chicken with the delightful addition of pastina—tiny pasta that adds structure without overwhelming the bowl. And the best part? It’s a fantastic way to use up leftover chicken, making it budget-friendly and efficient. Perfect for busy weeknights or a leisurely family brunch, this soup can quickly become a go-to favorite.
“This soup is like a warm hug in a bowl! The flavors meld together beautifully, and my kids can’t get enough of it. I love how easy it is to make, especially on a busy night!” — A happy home cook.
How this recipe comes together
Making Italian Chicken Pastina Soup is a straightforward process that yields a dish filled with heart and flavor. It starts with the aromatic sautéing of onions, garlic, and colorful vegetables. From there, you’ll build a rich broth, add in soft pastina, and finish with tender pieces of chicken. This step-by-step overview will give you a clear picture before you dive into the cooking.
What you’ll need
Gather these items to create this delightful soup:
- 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 (add more if needed)
- 1 pound carrots, diced small
- 1 Parmesan rind (optional)
- 1 ½ teaspoons kosher salt (more to taste)
- ⅓ cup uncooked pastina (double for more pasta)
- 2 ½ – 3 cups rotisserie or leftover chicken, shredded or chopped
- Grated Parmesan cheese
- Finely chopped fresh rosemary and/or fresh thyme leaves
Add a hint of flavor with fresh herbs, or swap ingredients based on what you have on hand. For those who prefer a lighter version, you can opt for a lower-fat broth or add more vegetables!
