Chicken Pastina Soup

Rich, Cozy, and Truly Comforting

If there’s one soup that embodies pure comfort in every single spoonful, it’s Chicken Pastina Soup. This simple, soothing Italian-inspired classic combines tiny star-shaped pasta (pastina), shredded chicken, tender vegetables, and a savory Parmesan-infused broth that tastes like a warm hug. Traditionally served to children or anyone needing a little extra love and nourishment, Chicken Pastina Soup has become a family-favorite dish around the world — and for good reason.

Whether the weather turns chilly, you’re feeling under the weather, or you need a quick and wholesome meal, this flavorful soup is here for you. It’s ready in one pot, requires minimal ingredients, and is incredibly versatile. You can customize it to suit your tastes, make it heartier or lighter, or turn it into a creamy version for extra indulgence.

This recipe produces a silky, richly flavored broth thanks to blended vegetables and a Parmesan rind that melts into the soup as it simmers. Each bite offers a delightful mix of comfort, warmth, and nostalgia. Once you try it, this Chicken Pastina Soup will quickly become part of your regular rotation — especially during winter months or as a soothing meal after a long day.

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Why You’ll Love This Chicken Pastina Soup

There are countless reasons this recipe stands out:

Simple and economical: Made with pantry staples — broth, chicken, veggies, pasta.

Perfectly comforting: The combination of creamy blended vegetables and tender pasta is soothing and nourishing.

Loved by all ages: From picky kids to soup-loving adults, this dish is always a win.

Fast and one-pot friendly: On the table in less than an hour with minimal cleanup.

Customizable: Easily adjust flavors, textures, and add-ins to suit your preferences.

Italian-inspired tradition: A cultural comfort food that brings warmth and heart to every bowl.

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What Is Pastina?

Pastina means “tiny pasta” in Italian. It comes in many small shapes such as:

• Stelline (tiny stars)

• Alphabet letters

• Dots (acini di pepe)

• Tiny shells

• Orzo (although slightly larger)

Stelline is the most iconic shape used in Chicken Pastina Soup, especially for children. It cooks quickly and adds the perfect tender bite without overpowering the broth.

If you can’t find pastina, any tiny pasta shape will work beautifully.

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Chicken Pastina Soup Ingredients

Serves: 6
Course: Soup | Cuisine: Italian-Inspired
Total Time: About 45 minutes

Ingredients

• 8 cups low-sodium chicken broth

• 2 cups chopped sweet onion

• 1 ½ cups peeled, coarsely chopped carrots

• 2 celery ribs, coarsely chopped

• 6 garlic cloves, smashed and peeled

• ¾ tsp kosher salt (plus more to taste)

• 4 fresh thyme sprigs

• 2 fresh bay leaves

• 1 Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese rind (about 2 oz)

• 4 oz uncooked pastina pasta (such as stelline/star pasta)

• 2 cups shredded rotisserie chicken

• Fresh parsley, for garnish

• Grated Parmesan, for serving

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How to Make Chicken Pastina Soup

Step-by-Step Instructions

1️⃣ Simmer the Vegetables
In a large pot, combine broth, onion, carrots, celery, garlic, and salt.
Bring to a boil over high heat.
Reduce heat and simmer for about 10 minutes, until vegetables are soft.

2️⃣ Create a Creamy Base
Use a slotted spoon to remove the softened vegetables and 1 cup of broth to a blender.
Blend until smooth and silky.
Pour the mixture back into the pot, stirring to combine.
This thickens the broth naturally without cream.

3️⃣ Add Flavor Boosters
Place thyme sprigs, bay leaves, and Parmesan rind into the pot.
Bring back to a gentle boil so the flavors infuse deeply.

4️⃣ Cook the Pastina and Chicken
Add uncooked pastina.
Simmer 18–20 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
Add shredded chicken during the last 3 minutes so it warms through.

5️⃣ Serve and Enjoy
Remove thyme sprigs, bay leaves, and Parmesan rind.
Taste and adjust seasoning, adding more salt or black pepper as needed.
Ladle into bowls and top with fresh parsley and grated Parmesan.

Serve hot and enjoy the cozy comfort of every bite.

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Nutrition Information (Approx. per Serving)

High-protein, satisfying, and nourishing without being too heavy.

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Ingredient Substitutions & Options

This Chicken Pastina Soup can easily adapt to your dietary needs or pantry supplies:

Keeping ingredients simple is part of what makes this soup special — but don’t be afraid to get creative when needed.

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Pro Tips for Perfect Chicken Pastina Soup

• Don’t overcook the pastina: It absorbs broth quickly and may become mushy. Serve immediately for best texture.

• Add extra broth when reheating: Pasta absorbs liquid over time — a splash of broth keeps soup silky.

• Use a real Parmesan rind: Adds richness and umami that transforms the broth.

• Blend just enough veggies: Creates a creamy texture without dairy.

• Season in layers: Add salt gradually to avoid over-salting.

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Variations

Depending on your cravings and dietary preferences, try one of these delicious twists:

Creamy Chicken Pastina Soup

Add:

• ½ cup heavy cream or whole milk during the final 5 minutes

Extra luscious and comforting.

Chicken Pastina Soup with Spinach

Stir in:

• 2 cups baby spinach during the final 3 minutes

Adds nutrients, color, and freshness.

Lemon Chicken Pastina Soup

Add:

• Juice of ½–1 lemon + zest before serving

Bright, refreshing, immune-boosting.

Protein-Rich Version

Use:

• Chicken thighs for richer flavor

• Add white beans for a power-packed boost

Veggie-Boosted Edition

Add one or more:

• Peas

• Zucchini

• Corn

• Mushrooms

• Diced potatoes

More fiber and nutrition without sacrificing comfort.

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How to Store Chicken Pastina Soup

Pro tip: If freezing, cook pastina fresh when ready to serve — it doesn’t freeze well and can break down in texture.

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FAQs About Chicken Pastina Soup

Can I make Chicken Pastina Soup ahead?
Yes! Prep the broth and chicken ahead. Add pasta when reheating for best texture.

What if I don’t have a Parmesan rind?
Add extra grated Parmesan or a splash of cream for richness.

How do I prevent pastina from absorbing too much broth?
Cook the pasta separately and add it only to bowls when serving.

Is it okay to use water instead of broth?
You can, but broth makes the flavor much richer and more comforting.

Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes — just swap the pasta for a gluten-free option.

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Serving Suggestions

Chicken Pastina Soup is satisfying on its own, but pairs well with:

• Warm crusty bread

• Garlic breadsticks

• Fresh garden salad

• Steamed vegetables

• Grilled cheese sandwiches

Perfect for weekday lunches or cozy weekend dinners.

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The Comfort and Tradition Behind Chicken Pastina Soup

In many Italian households, pastina is one of the very first solid foods served to children — often prepared simply with broth or butter and Parmesan. Over time, it becomes a soothing remedy for sick days, heartbreak, homesickness, or cold winter nights.

This soup straddles the line between tradition and innovation — rooted in memories while customizable to modern preferences. Each family has their own variation, making Chicken Pastina Soup more than just a recipe — it’s a feel-good, love-filled ritual.

Cooking this dish connects us to generations who relied on humble ingredients to deliver maximum comfort. And that, more than anything, is what makes a recipe timeless.

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Final Thoughts

If you’re searching for a warm, wholesome, and irresistibly cozy meal, Chicken Pastina Soup will quickly win your heart. It’s nourishing, easy to make, kid-friendly, and endlessly comforting — the kind of soup that makes everything feel just a little bit better.

Whether you’re fighting a cold, warming up on a chilly evening, or simply craving a bit of comfort and nostalgia, this Chicken Pastina Soup is the perfect bowl of goodness. Make it once, and it will become a beloved favorite you’ll want to cook again and again.

Enjoy the warmth, flavor, and love in every spoonful.
Serve with extra Parmesan and a smile.