Creamy Chicken Pastina Soup

Name: Creamy Chicken Pastina Soup
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 55 min
Total time: 1 h 10 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: Base Ingredients 8 cups water; 2 cups low-sodium vegetable broth; 1 large yellow onion, quartered; 3 carrots, peeled and cut into chunks; 2 celery ribs, cut into chunks; 4 garlic cloves, peeled and slightly smashed; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; 2 bay leaves; ½ to 1 ½ teaspoons sea salt; ¼ teaspoon Italian seasoning; ¼ teaspoon dried crushed thyme leaves; 2 teaspoons dried parsley; 1/8 teaspoon poultry seasoning; 1/8 teaspoon sweet paprika; Pinch dried rosemary; 1/8 teaspoon black pepper; ¼ cup Vegan Parmesan Cheese; 2 tablespoons miso (optional); 1 tablespoon lemon juice; Cooked small pasta of choice (pastina, orzo, couscous, etc.); Generous sprinkle of Vegan Parmesan Cheese; Freshly chopped parsley

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Everyday Culinary Delights👩‍🍳

Posted on January 10, 2025

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There are few things as satisfying as a warm, creamy bowl of Chicken Pastina Soup. This dish is a staple in Italian kitchens, often passed down through generations as the ultimate comfort food. With its velvety broth, tender pasta, and perfectly seasoned chicken, this soup is both nourishing and soul-warming—a go-to meal for chilly days, cozy nights, or whenever you need a little extra comfort.

This article will take a deep dive into the history of pastina soup, why it’s so beloved, the best ways to serve it, expert cooking tips, and answers to frequently asked questions. By the end, you’ll have everything you need to make this timeless dish a staple in your own kitchen.

The Origins of Pastina Soup: A Tradition of Comfort and Healing

Pastina, which means “little pasta” in Italian, refers to the tiny pasta shapes commonly used in soups. These delicate pasta varieties—such as stelline (tiny stars), orzo, or acini di pepe—have been a part of Italian cuisine for centuries.

For many Italian families, Chicken Pastina Soup is the first solid food given to babies, a staple meal when someone is feeling unwell, and a symbol of home and warmth. It has earned the nickname “Italian Penicillin” because it’s often used as a remedy for colds, much like chicken noodle soup in other cultures.

While traditional pastina soup is made with broth, pastina, and simple seasonings, this creamy version elevates the dish with the addition of Parmesan, blended vegetables, and a luscious texture that makes it even more indulgent.

Ingredients

Base Ingredients:

8 cups water
2 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
1 large yellow onion, quartered
3 carrots, peeled and cut into chunks
2 celery ribs, cut into chunks
4 garlic cloves, peeled and slightly smashed

Soup Base Spice/Herb Ingredients:

1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
2 bay leaves
½ to 1 ½ tsp sea salt

Additional Seasonings:

¼ tsp Italian seasoning
¼ tsp dried crushed thyme leaves
2 tsp dried parsley
1/8 tsp poultry seasoning
1/8 tsp sweet paprika
Pinch dried rosemary
1/8 tsp black pepper

For Creamy Finish & Pasta:

¼ cup Vegan Parmesan Cheese (or regular Parmesan)
2 tbsp miso (optional)
1 tbsp lemon juice
Cooked small pasta (pastina, orzo, couscous, etc.)

Optional Toppings:

Extra Parmesan Cheese
Freshly chopped parsley

Directions

Step 1: Prepare the Broth

In a large stockpot, combine water, vegetable broth, onion, carrots, celery, and garlic.
Stir in garlic powder, onion powder, and salt.
Toss in the bay leaves and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 45 minutes.

Step 2: Blend the Vegetables

Remove the softened vegetables from the pot using a slotted spoon.
Transfer them to a high-speed blender with 1 ½ cups of the broth and blend until smooth.

Step 3: Combine and Season

Return the blended mixture to the pot and stir to combine.
Add Italian seasoning, thyme, parsley, paprika, poultry seasoning, black pepper, lemon juice, and miso (if using).
Simmer for 10 more minutes.

Step 4: Prepare the Pasta

Cook pastina or orzo pasta according to package directions.
Drain and rinse with cold water to prevent sticking.

Step 5: Serve and Garnish

Add a portion of cooked pasta to each serving bowl.
Ladle the hot broth over the pasta.
Garnish with extra Parmesan and fresh parsley.
Serve warm and enjoy!

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):

Calories: 180
Protein: 6g
Carbohydrates: 28g
Total Fat: 5g
Fiber: 4g

Why This Recipe Works

1. A Creamy and Velvety Broth

The secret to the rich texture of this soup lies in blending the softened vegetables with the broth. This method creates a smooth, flavorful base without needing heavy cream or flour-based thickeners.

2. A Perfectly Balanced Flavor Profile

The combination of aromatic spices, fresh herbs, and Parmesan cheese results in a broth that’s both deeply savory and slightly sweet from the natural flavors of the carrots and onions.

3. Nutritious and Wholesome

This soup is loaded with vitamins and minerals from the fresh vegetables and broth, making it a nutrient-packed meal. The protein from the chicken and the carbohydrates from the pastina create a perfectly balanced dish.

4. Easy to Customize

This recipe can be easily adapted to suit different dietary preferences and ingredient availability. Whether you want to make it vegetarian, gluten-free, or add extra protein, it’s a versatile dish that can be adjusted without losing its essence.

Best Ways to Serve Creamy Chicken Pastina Soup

1. As a Cozy Main Course

This soup is filling enough to stand on its own as a complete meal. Serve it in a deep bowl with a sprinkle of Parmesan and a drizzle of olive oil for an elegant presentation.

2. Paired with Fresh Bread

A slice of crusty Italian bread or buttery garlic toast makes the perfect companion to soak up the creamy broth.

3. With a Side Salad

For a lighter, well-rounded meal, pair this soup with a simple green salad with lemon vinaigrette or a classic Caesar salad.

4. As a Starter for an Italian Dinner

If serving a multi-course meal, start with a small bowl of pastina soup before moving on to heartier dishes like chicken parmesan, lasagna, or eggplant rollatini.

Variations and Customizations

1. Make It Vegetarian

Replace chicken broth with vegetable broth.
Omit the chicken and add white beans, chickpeas, or extra vegetables for protein.

2. Use Different Pasta Shapes

While pastina is traditional, you can experiment with orzo, couscous, ditalini, or acini di pepe to achieve slightly different textures.

3. Add More Vegetables

To make this soup even more nutritious, try adding:

Spinach or kale for extra greens.
Mushrooms for an earthy flavor.
Zucchini or bell peppers for a hint of sweetness.

4. Give It a Spicy Kick

If you prefer some heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce for a bold twist.

Expert Tips for the Best Creamy Chicken Pastina Soup

1. Don’t Overcook the Pasta

Since pastina is very small and delicate, it can quickly become mushy. To prevent this, cook the pasta separately and add it to the soup just before serving.

2. Use Fresh Parmesan for the Best Flavor

Freshly grated Parmesan melts more smoothly into the broth and enhances the overall taste compared to pre-packaged grated cheese.

3. Simmer Slowly for Maximum Flavor

Letting the broth simmer slowly allows the flavors from the vegetables, spices, and chicken to fully develop.

4. Blend for the Perfect Texture

Blending a portion of the soup gives it a natural creaminess without the need for added dairy.

5. Store Pasta and Broth Separately for Meal Prep

If making this soup ahead of time, store the cooked pasta and broth separately to keep the pasta from absorbing too much liquid and becoming soggy.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes! The broth can be made up to 3 days in advance and stored in the refrigerator. For best results, cook the pasta fresh before serving.

2. Can I freeze this soup?

Yes, but it’s best to freeze the broth without the pasta. Cook fresh pasta when reheating to maintain the best texture.

3. What type of chicken works best?

You can use:

Shredded rotisserie chicken for convenience.
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs cooked in the broth for extra flavor.

4. Can I make this soup dairy-free?

Absolutely! Simply omit the Parmesan or replace it with nutritional yeast for a dairy-free alternative.

5. What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?

Reheat over low heat on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth or water if needed to thin out the soup.

Conclusion: Why You Should Make This Creamy Chicken Pastina Soup

This Creamy Chicken Pastina Soup is more than just a meal—it’s a tradition, a comfort food, and a symbol of warmth and nourishment. With its rich, velvety texture, perfectly seasoned broth, and delicate pastina, it’s a dish that soothes the soul while delivering balanced nutrition.

✔ Perfect for chilly nights or when you need a comforting meal.
✔ Loaded with flavor from fresh herbs, spices, and creamy Parmesan.
✔ Naturally adaptable to different diets and ingredient preferences.
✔ Simple, wholesome ingredients that come together in a deeply satisfying dish.

If you’re looking for a homemade meal that brings warmth and comfort, this Italian-inspired soup is a must-try. Once you make it, you’ll understand why this recipe has been a family favorite for generations.

So grab your ingredients, prepare your pot, and enjoy the coziest bowl of Creamy Chicken Pastina Soup today!