Description
Whip up a comforting and nourishing bowl of Best Chicken Pastina Soup Recipe for a Quick, Hearty Meal. This easy recipe uses simple ingredients for a satisfying dish perfect for any day.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 carrots, peeled and diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 8 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 cup cooked shredded chicken (rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut)
- ½ cup pastina pasta (or other small pasta like orzo or ditalini)
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish (optional)
- Fresh lemon juice, to taste (optional)
Instructions
- 1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables have softened, about 8-10 minutes. This initial sautéing builds a foundational layer of flavor for the soup.
- 2. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it. Burned garlic can impart a bitter taste.
- 3. Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
- 4. Add the cooked shredded chicken, pastina pasta, and Italian seasoning. Stir to combine.
- 5. Continue to simmer, uncovered, for about 10-15 minutes, or until the pastina is cooked through and tender. Stir occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking to the bottom of the pot. The soup will thicken slightly as the pasta absorbs liquid and releases starch.
- 6. Season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Taste and adjust as needed. Sometimes a little more salt is all it needs to really bring the flavors alive.
- 7. If desired, stir in a squeeze of fresh lemon juice just before serving. This brightens the soup considerably.
- 8. Ladle the hot soup into bowls and garnish with fresh chopped parsley, if using.
Notes
Cool completely before storing in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or water if too thick.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1.5 cups
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 750mg
- Fat: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 25g