Chicken Pastina Soup
Chicken Pastina Soup is the ultimate cozy bowl of comfort. Tender pastina pasta, shredded chicken, and veggies simmer in a flavorful broth enriched with Parmesan and herbs. It’s nourishing, simple, and perfect for sick days, chilly nights, or whenever you need a warm hug in a bowl. This Italian-inspired classic is loved by both kids and adults — and it comes together in one pot!
Ingredients
Serves ~6
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8 cups low-sodium chicken broth
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2 cups chopped sweet onion
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1 ½ cups peeled, coarsely chopped carrots
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2 celery ribs, coarsely chopped
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6 garlic cloves, smashed & peeled
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¾ tsp kosher salt
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4 fresh thyme sprigs
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2 fresh bay leaves
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1 Parmigiano-Reggiano rind (about 2 oz)
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4 oz uncooked pastina pasta (such as star-shaped)
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2 cups shredded rotisserie chicken
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Fresh flat-leaf parsley, for garnish
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Grated Parmesan, for serving
Instructions
1️⃣ Simmer the Vegetables
Add broth, onion, carrots, celery, garlic, and salt to a large pot.
Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer 10 minutes until veggies soften.
2️⃣ Blend for Creaminess
Use a slotted spoon to remove the veggies and 1 cup of broth.
Blend until smooth, then return the mixture to the pot to thicken the broth.
3️⃣ Infuse Flavor
Add thyme, bay leaves, and the Parmesan rind.
Bring to a gentle boil.
4️⃣ Cook the Pasta & Chicken
Add pastina and lower heat to medium-low.
Simmer 18–20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Add shredded chicken during the final 3 minutes.
5️⃣ Finish & Serve
Remove thyme sprigs, bay leaves, and Parmesan rind.
Ladle into bowls and garnish with parsley and grated Parmesan.
Notes
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Dairy-free option: Skip the cheese rind and garnish; add a splash of olive oil instead.
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More veggies: Stir in spinach or peas during the last 5 minutes.
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Thicker texture: Mash some cooked potatoes or use less broth.
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A kid-friendly favorite: Use star-shaped “stelline” pasta!
Find it online: https://tastyquickly.com/chicken-pastina-soup/