When the winter chill sets in, there’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of chicken soup to fortify the immune system. This delightful Italian chicken pastina soup is not just any ordinary soup. it’s a hearty blend of immune-boosting vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. These health benefits come from the vibrant vegetables, aromatic garlic, savory broth, and tender chicken. It offers a comforting change to the classic chicken soup, traditionally served as a home remedy during times of illness.
In a bustling household with four school-age kids, the winter months often bring their fair share of colds and flu. It’s almost inevitable! During these times, this soup serves as a soothing, nurturing meal. It provides a sense of comfort and warmth that helps everyone bounce back to health swiftly.
Italian chicken pastina shares many of the same wholesome ingredients as traditional chicken soup but with a few unique differences. One notable difference is in the texture. The vegetables are pureed to create a creamy consistency, unlike the usual hearty chunks of carrots and celery. A sprinkle of parmesan cheese elevates the flavor to a distinctly Italian flavor. Parmesan also contributes valuable protein and calcium to the soup.
Additionally, instead of the typical egg noodles found in American chicken noodle soup, this recipe features pastina. Pastina is a delightful type of small pasta reminiscent of little pebbles, perfect for slurping. For anyone curious about the world of little pastas, the article “What is Pastina?” by Why Italians provides an insightful exploration of the various shapes used in Italian cuisine. What is Pastina? [many shapes, one single purpose]
The combination of a smooth puree and tiny pasta makes this soup especially easy to consume, ideal for those scratching throats and sensitive systems.
Preparation, Servings, and Storage of Italian Chicken Pastina Soup
Chicken pastina soup is easy to prepare in less than one hour. It yields an impressive eight servings. While it’s best enjoyed fresh for maximum flavor and texture, leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to four days, ready to provide comfort whenever needed.
Looking for other comforting immune boosting soup recipes?
If you’re on the lookout for other heartwarming and immune-boosting soup recipes to fight the winter blues, there are plenty of delicious options to explore!
Italian chicken pastina soup
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Equipment
- dutch oven
- Immersion blender
- 2 quart saucepan
Ingredients
- 2 tbsp Butter
- 1 cup Yellow onion (diced)
- 3 Carrots (diced)
- 3 stalks Celery (diced)
- 4 cloves Garlic
- 2 quarts Chicken broth
- 1 lb Chicken breast (2-3 breasts)
- 1 sprig Rosemary
- 1/2 tsp Sea salt
- 1/2 tsp Black pepper
- 1 cup Estrella pasta
- 1/2 cup Freshly grated parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Begin by melting the butter over medium heat in a large Dutch oven. Add the onions, carrots, and celery and cook until tender.
- Once the vegetables are soft, add the garlic and cook for 1 minute longer.
- Pour the chicken broth into the pot.
- Add the raw chicken breasts along with the rosemary, sea salt, and black pepper.
- Simmer with the lid on for approximately 25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.
- Remove the chicken and any rosemary sprig sticks and discard the sticks. Allow the chicken to cool for about 5 minutes and then shred with a fork.
- While the chicken is cooling, blend the vegetables in the broth with an immersion blender until the soup base is smooth.
- Return shredded chicken to the blended soup base and continue to simmer while the pasta cooks in a separate saucepan.
- In a small saucepan, boil the Estrella pasta for 9 minutes, or al dente. Drain the pasta and add to the soup.
- Serve the Italian pastina soup with a generous sprinkle of parmesan cheese on top.
Nutrition
