What Makes Chicken Pastina Soup So Special?
Chicken pastina soup, often called “Italian penicillin,” has earned its reputation as a powerful immune-boosting meal. This traditional Italian comfort food combines tender chicken, nutritious vegetables, and tiny star-shaped pasta in a flavorful broth that warms both body and soul. Whether you’re fighting off a seasonal cold or simply craving a nourishing homemade meal, this chicken pastina soup recipe delivers comforting flavors with minimal effort.
Chicken Pastina Soup Ingredients
Gather these simple ingredients to create your perfect bowl of chicken pastina soup:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (substitute butter for richer flavor)
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 6 cups chicken broth (homemade or low-sodium store-bought)
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or breasts for leaner option)
- ½ cup pastina pasta (or substitute orzo or ditalini)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley and grated Parmesan for garnish
Need Substitutions?
- Vegetarian chicken pastina soup: Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and replace chicken with white beans
- Gluten-free chicken pastina soup: Substitute gluten-free pastina or quinoa for regular pastina
Quick and Easy Chicken Pastina Soup
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
This chicken pastina soup recipe is 50% faster than traditional slow-simmered soups, making it perfect for busy weeknights when you need comfort food quickly.
How to Make the Best Chicken Pastina Soup
1. Sauté the Aromatics
Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onions, carrots, and celery, cooking until softened (about 5 minutes). Stir in garlic until fragrant (30 seconds).
Pro Tip: Take your time with this step—properly sweating the vegetables builds the flavor foundation for your chicken pastina soup.
2. Simmer the Broth & Chicken
Pour in chicken broth, then add bay leaf, thyme, oregano, and chicken thighs. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes until chicken is cooked through.
3. Shred the Chicken
Remove chicken, shred with two forks, and return to the pot for that classic chicken pastina soup texture.
4. Cook the Pastina
Add pastina and simmer for 5-7 minutes until tender. Season with salt and pepper.
Important: Watch your pastina cooking time carefully—overcooking will make it mushy and affect the overall texture of your chicken pastina soup.
5. Serve & Garnish
Ladle the chicken pastina soup into bowls, top with fresh parsley and Parmesan for the perfect finish.
Chicken Pastina Soup Nutrition Facts
Per serving (1½ cups):
- Calories: 280
- Protein: 22g
- Carbs: 25g
- Fiber: 3g
- Fat: 9g
Why Chicken Pastina Soup Is Healthy: This soup delivers lean protein, essential vitamins (A, C, K), and gut-friendly broth in every spoonful.
Customize Your Chicken Pastina Soup
Healthier Alternatives
- Lower sodium: Use no-salt-added broth
- More vegetables: Add spinach or zucchini
- Keto-friendly: Skip pastina and add cauliflower rice
Perfect Pairings for Chicken Pastina Soup
- Crusty Italian bread for dipping
- A simple side salad for freshness
- A squeeze of lemon for brightness
Common Chicken Pastina Soup Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking pastina: Results in mushy texture
- Skipping fresh herbs: Reduces flavor vibrancy
- Underseasoning: Always taste and adjust seasonings before serving
Storing Your Chicken Pastina Soup
- Refrigerator: Up to 3 days (the broth may thicken—just add water when reheating)
- Freezer: Store without pastina (add fresh pastina when reheating for best texture)
Why You’ll Love This Chicken Pastina Soup Recipe
This chicken pastina soup truly lives up to its “Italian penicillin” nickname—it’s quick to prepare, packed with nutrients, and delivers that homemade comfort food satisfaction. Whether you’re making it as a remedy or simply a delicious meal, this chicken pastina soup recipe needs to be in your regular rotation!
Ready to make your own chicken pastina soup? Tag #ChefYasna on Instagram or leave a comment below—we’d love to see your creations! Subscribe for more comforting recipes.
Frequently Asked Questions About Chicken Pastina Soup
Can I use egg noodles instead of pastina in my soup?
Yes! Any small pasta works in chicken pastina soup, though traditional pastina gives that authentic Italian touch.
Can I make chicken pastina soup in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! Sauté vegetables first, then cook on low for 6 hours. Add pastina in the final 30 minutes of cooking.
Why is chicken pastina soup called “penicillin soup”?
Because it’s packed with immune-boosting ingredients like garlic, mineral-rich broth, and herbs—nature’s medicine in a bowl!
Can I freeze leftover chicken pastina soup?
Yes, but for best results, freeze the soup without the pasta and add fresh pastina when reheating.
