Name: Italian Chicken Pastina Soup
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 80 min
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 cloves garlic, minced; 8 cups low-sodium chicken broth (maybe more); 1 pound carrots, diced small; 1 piece parmesan rind ((optional)); 1.5 teaspoons kosher salt (more to taste); 0.33 cup uncooked pastina (double if you like a lot of pasta); 2.5-3 cups rotisserie or leftover chicken; grated Parmesan (for serving); finely chopped fresh rosemary and/or fresh thyme leaves

Introduction to Italian Chicken Pastina Soup

When you think of comfort food, there’s nothing that quite hits the mark like a warm bowl of soup. Italian Chicken Pastina Soup perfectly embodies this cozy sentiment. With every spoonful, you’re not just tasting a rich blend of flavors, but also experiencing a deep sense of nostalgia and warmth.

Comfort Food: Why Soup Warms the Soul

Soup has a magical ability to soothe both the body and the spirit. In a world that often feels fast-paced and chaotic, there’s something inherently calming about a bowl of homemade soup. The process of simmering fresh ingredients fills your kitchen with inviting aromas that can instantly lighten your mood. According to research, the act of eating warm foods releases endorphins, making us feel happier (source: Harvard Health).

Italian Chicken Pastina Soup, with its delightful combination of tender chicken, hearty vegetables, and tiny pastina pasta, is not just a meal; it’s a hug in a bowl. Picture yourself coming home after a long day, pouring this nourishing soup into your favorite bowl, and feeling the warmth envelop you. It's a comforting reminder of home, making it the ideal dish for chilly evenings or when you're feeling under the weather.

Embrace this comforting delicacy, and prepare to savor each bite as it nourishes both your body and soul.

Ingredients for Italian Chicken Pastina Soup

Essential ingredients for a hearty soup

Creating a delightful bowl of Italian Chicken Pastina Soup starts with a few key ingredients that lay the foundation for flavor and comfort. Here’s what you’ll need:

Extra virgin olive oil and butter for a rich base.
Onion and shallot to add sweetness and depth.
Celery and yellow bell pepper for crunch and color.
Garlic to elevate the aroma.
Low-sodium chicken broth: the heart of any good soup, so feel free to adjust the quantity to your taste.
Diced carrots for sweetness and texture.
Pastina, the tiny pasta that adds charm.
Rotisserie or leftover chicken to provide that satisfying protein.

Optional ingredients for extra flavor

Don’t hesitate to get creative with optional ingredients! Adding a parmesan rind enhances the broth’s flavor, while fresh herbs like rosemary and thyme can elevate your soup experience.

For a gourmet touch, consider garnishing with grated Parmesan before serving. Want to dive deeper into incorporating herbs and maximizing flavor? Check out this guide on fresh herbs to inspire your culinary journey!

With these ingredients in hand, you're all set to whip up a comforting bowl of Italian Chicken Pastina Soup!

Preparing Italian Chicken Pastina Soup

Making a delicious bowl of Italian Chicken Pastina Soup is not just about following a recipe; it's about creating warmth and comfort in your kitchen. This hearty soup is perfect for chilly evenings and is surprisingly easy to whip up. Let’s dive into the steps!

Sauté the aromatics

Start by heating a large Dutch oven or a trusted soup pot over medium heat. Add 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter. Once they meld together, toss in 1 large diced onion, 1 finely chopped shallot, 4 diced celery stalks, and 1 diced yellow bell pepper. Stir these ingredients and let them cook for about 4-5 minutes until the onions turn translucent and fragrant. Then, it's time to add 4 minced cloves of garlic, stirring well for another 2 minutes. This aromatic mix sets the perfect flavor base for your soup.

Add broth and vegetables

Once the garlic is fragrant, it's time to add depth! Pour in 8 cups of low-sodium chicken broth, along with 1 pound of diced carrots and a 1½ teaspoons of kosher salt. If you have a parmesan rind on hand, this is also the moment to toss it in for extra umami! Bring this mixture to a boil, then reduce to a steady simmer for 20-25 minutes until the veggies soften nicely. This simmering step allows the flavors to develop beautifully, turning your broth into a savory delight.

Blend the soup for creaminess

After the veggies have softened, carefully remove the parmesan rind if you used one. Here’s where it gets fun: take out about 2 cups of the cooked vegetables with a slotted spoon and set them aside. Now, blend the remaining mixture in the pot using an immersion blender, or if you opt for a regular blender, ensure it cools slightly first (safety first!). This makes the soup creamy without losing the comforting chunky veggie bits.

Cook the pastina

With your soup beautifully blended, it’s time to add ⅓ cup of uncooked pastina. Bring the soup back to a boil before lowering the heat to simmer. Follow the cooking time indicated on your pastina package (usually about 9 minutes for acini de pepe). This tiny pasta will soak up the flavors and enhance each spoonful.

Combine chicken and remaining veggies

Once the pasta is cooked, stir in 2½ to 3 cups of shredded rotisserie chicken and the reserved veggies. Cover the pot and let everything marry together for about 20 minutes. The waiting may be tough, but it's worth it! Finally, taste your creation and adjust the seasoning as needed—perhaps a sprinkle of salt or a dash of pepper?

Serving your Italian Chicken Pastina Soup is where the magic happens—garnish with grated parmesan and some finely chopped fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme for that extra touch! Enjoy the cozy vibes.

For more soul-soothing soup recipes, don’t hesitate to check out sources like Food52 for inspiration!

Variations on Italian Chicken Pastina Soup

Alfredo-inspired chicken pastina soup

For a creamy twist on your classic Italian Chicken Pastina Soup, try adding some Alfredo sauce. Begin by preparing the soup as usual, then gently stir in 1 cup of your favorite store-bought or homemade Alfredo sauce before adding the pastina. This rich addition creates a decadent, comforting dish perfect for chilly evenings. Pair it with a garden salad for a complete meal!

Vegetarian alternative with beans and veggies

If you're looking for a lighter, vegetarian option, swap the chicken for hearty beans and a medley of veggies! Simply use 1 can of cannellini or chickpeas, rinsed and drained, and load your soup with seasonal vegetables like zucchini, spinach, or even some corn. This delicious variation retains the soul of the Italian Chicken Pastina Soup, ensuring no one misses out on flavor or nutrition. Serve it with crusty bread for an extra heartwarming touch!

Cooking Tips for Italian Chicken Pastina Soup

How to Adjust Seasoning for Your Palate

When making Italian Chicken Pastina Soup, start with the recommended kosher salt but don’t be shy about tasting as you go! Everyone’s palate differs, and since natural flavors vary by ingredient, feel free to add more salt or fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme to elevate the dish. A sprinkle of freshly ground black pepper can also enhance that comforting flavor profile.

Tricks for Ensuring Perfect Pasta Texture

For the best pasta texture, add your pastina just before serving. Follow the cooking time indicated on the package, usually around 9 minutes for acini de pepe. If you prefer extra pasta, just double the amount, but keep an eye on the texture! To avoid mush, be ready to serve immediately after cooking the pasta. Remember, overcooked pasta can turn your soup into a less delightful meal.

Serving Suggestions for Italian Chicken Pastina Soup

Pairing with crusty bread

One of the simplest yet most delightful ways to elevate your Italian Chicken Pastina Soup is by serving it alongside a slice of crusty bread. A warm, rustic loaf—like a sourdough or ciabatta—can perfectly complement the soup's comforting flavors. Simply tear off a hunk to dip into the broth, soaking up every delicious drop.

Adding fresh herbs for garnish

To make your soup pop, consider garnishing it with vibrant fresh herbs. A sprinkle of finely chopped rosemary or thyme brings brightness and aroma to each bowl. Not only do these herbs enhance the visual appeal, but they also add a fresh flavor that takes your Italian Chicken Pastina Soup to the next level. Plus, studies show that fresh herbs can provide health benefits by boosting antioxidants in your meal! So go ahead; be generous with your garnish!

For more ideas on serving this delightful dish, check out The Spruce Eats for additional sides and tips.

Time Breakdown for Italian Chicken Pastina Soup

Preparation time
Get ready to create your Italian Chicken Pastina Soup in about 15 minutes. This includes chopping vegetables and gathering your ingredients, so you’ll be all set to cook!

Cooking time
The cooking process takes approximately 40 minutes. This includes letting the vegetables soften and the pastina cook to perfection.

Total time
In just under an hour, you can enjoy a warm bowl of this comforting soup. Perfect for a cozy evening or meal prep for the week ahead!

For more details on this delicious recipe, check out The Kitchn.

Nutritional Facts for Italian Chicken Pastina Soup

Italian Chicken Pastina Soup is not just delicious but also packed with nutrients to fuel your day! Here’s a quick overview of its nutritional breakdown:

Calories

Each serving contains approximately 142 calories, making it a light and satisfying meal perfect for any occasion.

Protein

With about 10 grams of protein per serving, this soup offers a healthy way to boost your protein intake without feeling weighed down.

Sodium

Keep an eye on your sodium intake! This soup contains around 471 mg of sodium, mainly from the chicken broth, so opt for low-sodium versions to keep it heart-friendly.

For more detailed insights into nutritional needs, consider checking out resources like the USDA's FoodData Central or Healthline for general dietary guidelines. Enjoy nourishing both your body and tastebuds with this heartwarming soup!

FAQs about Italian Chicken Pastina Soup

How can I store leftovers?

If you’re lucky enough to have Italian Chicken Pastina Soup leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. For the best texture, it's a good idea to keep the pasta separate if possible, as it may become mushy after a day or two. Just reheat gently on the stovetop before serving!

Can I use fresh chicken instead of rotisserie?

Absolutely! If you prefer using fresh chicken, simply poach or roast the chicken beforehand. Shred it into bite-sized pieces before adding it to your Italian Chicken Pastina Soup. This method adds a heartfelt touch to the recipe, allowing for custom seasoning and flavor.

What's the best way to freeze soup?

To freeze your Italian Chicken Pastina Soup, let it cool completely. Then, portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some headspace for expansion. It can be stored for up to three months! When you're ready to enjoy it again, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stove. For more tips on freezing soups, check out reputable sources like the USDA's Food Safety page.

Conclusion on Italian Chicken Pastina Soup

In conclusion, Italian Chicken Pastina Soup is a warm, soothing dish perfect for any occasion. Packed with nourishing ingredients and flavors, it’s not just a meal but a nostalgic hug in a bowl. Try making it your next family favorite, and enjoy the heartwarming moments it brings!