Pin it
My grandma's hands were the first to craft this Italian Chicken Pastina Soup. It's become our family's go-to remedy when someone's feeling sick. There's something special about those tiny star-shaped pasta pieces floating with juicy chicken and veggies in that golden broth. We nicknamed it Nonna's Penicillin since it works like a cozy cuddle in soup form.
How This Soup Mends Souls
This soup doesn't just taste amazing - it fixes you from deep within. The golden broth keeps you full of fluids while the soft chicken builds your strength back up. I'm happy knowing each bright veggie brings its own benefits. Whether you're battling a bug or just want something comforting, this soup's got all you need.
What You'll Need to Gather
- Cooked Chicken: A pair of cups of shredded goodness, store-bought or homemade works.
- Tiny Pastina: Those sweet Acini di pepe stars that'll make you smile.
- Fresh Vegetables: Vibrant carrots, celery, peppers for extra pep.
- Fresh Garlic: Four cloves chopped with care.
- Good Broth: Six cups of amber richness.
- Butter and Olive Oil: The base that brings everything together.
- Parmesan Rind: My hidden gem for extra flavor.
- Fresh Herbs: Rosemary and thyme to lift the taste.
- Grated Parmesan: Always block cheese, nothing packaged.
- Seasonings: Salt and pepper as you like.
Creating Kitchen Wonder
- Begin With Garden Goodies
- I enjoy dicing everything into small chunks matching our star pasta, my Vidalia slicer handles it quickly.
- Setting Up Flavor
- See the veggies turn soft in the butter mix until your home smells wonderful, then toss in that aromatic garlic.
- Making Liquid Sunshine
- Add in our stock with carrots and peppers, then let it all bubble until soft and flavorful.
- The Silky Method
- Here's grandma's special move: take out some veggies then puree what's left for that smooth texture.
- Adding Star Power
- The little pasta stars cook directly in our tasty broth, soaking up all those flavors.
- Bringing Everything Together
- Mix in our chicken and saved veggies then let it all sit, getting friendly.
- Finishing Brilliantly
- Fresh Parmesan and herbs sprinkled on top make each serving unique.
Pin it
Cooking Insider Tips
Any small pasta shape works great here but those stars are my favorite. Don't ever miss using that Parmesan rind if you've got one handy, it transforms the broth completely. Put in as much or as little pasta as you want and always top with plenty of fresh herbs and cheese.
Storing For Tomorrow
The flavor of this soup actually improves after sitting in the fridge a day or two. When you want more just heat it up slowly with a bit of extra broth to refresh everything. It's like having comfort food waiting whenever you need a boost.
Customizing Your Bowl
I sometimes try different small pasta shapes just for fun. Adding a touch of cream at the end makes it super cozy. When we're eating lighter, turkey fits perfectly and even with low-salt broth it tastes just as good.
Our Family Health Remedy
Grandma always told us this soup could fix anything, and I'm a believer. The golden broth helps when your throat hurts while the tender veggies and chicken boost your energy. Just smelling it cooking through the house already makes everyone feel better.
Great Side Matches
We love dipping crusty bread or garlic knots into our bowls. Sometimes I'll sprinkle in some red pepper flakes for extra warmth. A glass of light white wine makes it feel fancy though really this soup stands perfectly on its own.
Smart Storage
Let it cool all the way before putting it in the fridge where it stays good for about four days. When you want some more just warm it gently with a splash of broth if it looks thick. Watch out for that pasta as it keeps drinking up the liquid.
Freezer Tricks
I found a clever way to freeze this soup: leave the pasta out when you're storing long-term. The soup base freezes perfectly for three months. When you're ready just thaw overnight, cook fresh pastina and you've got comfort food ready to eat.
Adding That Special Touch
That Parmesan rind while cooking feels like grandma watching over the pot adding her love. Fresh herbs bring that just-picked feeling and don't skip that final sprinkle of Parmesan, it's the perfect last touch for our comfort bowl.
Pin it
Frequently Asked Questions
- → What does pastina mean?
Pastina translates to 'little pasta' in Italian. It’s used for small pasta varieties like acini di pepe, which work perfectly in soups.
- → Why are some veggies blended?
Blending part of the vegetables gives the soup a creamy feel, while still leaving chunks for a nice bite. It thickens the broth naturally.
- → Can you freeze it?
Absolutely! Just leave out the pasta before freezing, as it may get too soft. Add freshly cooked pastina when reheating.
- → What does parmesan rind add?
It gives the broth a boost of savory flavor as it simmers. While optional, it deepens the soup’s taste wonderfully.
- → Why rest it for 20 minutes?
Taking a break lets the flavors soak in better, and the pasta absorbs the perfect amount of broth without turning mushy.
Conclusion
An Italian comfort classic loaded with soft chicken, flavorful vegetables, and delicate pasta. It's rich, smooth, and perfect for anyone needing a comforting boost.