When the weather turns chilly, or you’re feeling under the weather, there’s nothing like a warm, refreshing bowl of chicken pastina soup. This Italian-inspired comfort food perfectly combines tender chicken, tiny pasta, and a nourishing broth. It’s an easy one-pot meal that’s sure to become a new family favorite.

What is Pastina?

Pastina refers to the most miniature pasta shapes you can find, such as tiny star-shaped pieces (stelline) or little round dots (acini di pepe). These miniature pasta create a wonderful texture when cooked in soup, making each spoonful genuinely comforting.

Why You’ll Love This Chicken Pastina Soup

Ready in under 1 hour
Packed with shredded chicken for added protein
Uses simple pantry ingredients
Incredibly soothing and comforting
It can be easily customized to your taste
Freezes well for meal prep

Ingredients

8 cups low-sodium chicken broth
1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 cup pastina (stars or dots)
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 medium onion, diced
2 carrots, peeled and diced
2 celery stalks, diced
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 Parmesan rind (optional)
2 bay leaves
1 teaspoon dried thyme
Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Chopped fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

Cook the Chicken: Bring the broth to a boil over high heat in a large pot. Add the chicken breasts and reduce heat to medium-low. Simmer on low heat for 15-20 minutes until the chicken is completely cooked through.Transfer chicken to a plate and shred or dice it once cool enough to handle.
Sauté the Vegetables: Heat the olive oil over medium heat in the same pot. Add the onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until vegetables begin to soften.
Build the Soup: Add the garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Pour the chicken broth and add the Parmesan rind, bay leaves, and thyme. Bring to a gentle boil.
Cook the Pastina: Once boiling, add the pastina to the pot. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender.
Finish the Soup: Remove the bay leaves and Parmesan rind. Stir the shredded chicken back into the soup. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serve: Ladle the hot chicken pastina soup into bowls. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley.

Tips for the Best Chicken Pastina Soup

Use good quality, low-sodium chicken broth for maximum flavor.
Simmer the chicken in the broth to infuse it with extra flavor.
Don’t overcook the pastina – it can become mushy if boiled too long.
Add the chicken at the end to prevent it from drying out.
Parmesan rind adds richness, but the soup is delicious without it.
For a heartier meal, serve with crusty bread or a simple salad.

Variations and Additions

Lemon Chicken Pastina Soup: Add the zest and juice of 1 lemon.
Greens: Stir in baby spinach or kale at the end.
Herbs: Try fresh thyme, rosemary, or oregano.
Vegetables: Add diced potatoes, zucchini, or peas.
Eggs: Slowly drizzle in beaten eggs at the end for an egg drop style.

A Cozy, Comforting Classic

Chicken pastina soup is the ultimate Italian comfort food. The tender chicken, tiny pasta, and aromatic broth combine in a soothing and refreshing dish. Whether you’re fighting a cold, craving something warm and nourishing, or just want a hug in a bowl, this recipe delivers every time. Give it a try the next time you need a little extra comfort.

Buon appetito!