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Chicken Pastina Soup

Chicken Pastina Soup

Chicken Pastina Soup is a warm, comforting, and nourishing bowl of tender chicken, delicate pastina pasta, and savory broth. This quick and easy soup is perfect for chilly days, soothing with every spoonful, and customizable to suit your taste and dietary preferences.

Ingredients

Scale

Protein

  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs

Pasta

  • 1 cup pastina pasta (or gluten-free substitute)

Vegetables

  • 1/2 cup carrots, finely diced
  • 1/2 cup celery, chopped
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

Liquids & Fats

  • 6 cups chicken broth (homemade or high-quality store-bought)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter

Herbs & Seasonings

  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley or thyme, chopped
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Vegetables: Heat olive oil or butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced onions, carrots, and celery, cooking until softened and fragrant, about 5 minutes. This builds the rich flavor base for the soup.
  2. Add Garlic and Herbs: Stir in minced garlic and fresh herbs like thyme or parsley. Cook for another minute, allowing aromas to develop without burning the garlic.
  3. Add Broth and Chicken: Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a gentle simmer. Add the chicken breast or thighs whole or cut into chunks. Poach the chicken in the simmering broth until cooked through, approximately 10 minutes.
  4. Cook the Pastina: Remove the chicken from the pot and shred or dice it. Add pastina pasta to the simmering broth and cook just until tender, usually under 5 minutes to avoid mushiness.
  5. Combine and Season: Return the shredded chicken to the pot, stir well, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Warm through for a couple more minutes, then remove from heat to prevent overcooking the pasta.

Notes

  • Use homemade chicken broth for a richer, more flavorful soup.
  • Do not overcook the pastina; it softens quickly and can become mushy.
  • Poach chicken gently to ensure tender and juicy meat.
  • Season gradually and adjust salt and pepper at the end for balanced flavor.
  • Add fresh herbs like parsley or basil just before serving to brighten the flavors.

Nutrition

Keywords: Chicken Pastina Soup, Comfort food, Quick soup, Gluten-free soup option, Easy weeknight meal