Are you craving a warm, comforting bowl of goodness that's both easy to make and incredibly delicious? Look no further! This chicken pastina soup recipe is a family favorite, perfect for a cozy night in or a quick and healthy weeknight dinner. It's one of those easy recipes that's surprisingly satisfying, brimming with flavor and packed with nutrients. Get ready to experience homemade cooking at its finest!
Ingredients: You'll Need These Simple Staples
This recipe uses readily available ingredients, making it a perfect choice for busy cooks.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 8 cups chicken broth (low sodium preferred)
- 1 cup cooked chicken, shredded (rotisserie chicken works great!)
- 1 cup pastina pasta
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Optional: 1/2 cup chopped fresh spinach or kale (added in the last 5 minutes of cooking)
Step-by-Step Instructions: Effortless Cooking
Follow these simple steps to create this healthy meal in no time.
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Sauté the vegetables: Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, and celery and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. This simple step builds a delicious base of flavor for your soup.
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Simmer the broth: Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a gentle simmer. Adding the broth at this stage ensures a rich, flavorful soup.
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Add chicken and seasonings: Stir in the shredded chicken, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. The cooked chicken adds a depth of flavor without requiring extra cooking time.
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Cook the pastina: Add the pastina pasta to the simmering broth and cook according to package directions, usually about 8-10 minutes, or until tender. Pastina is a small pasta, so it cooks quickly, making this a genuinely quick dinner idea.
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Finishing touches: If using, stir in the spinach or kale during the last 5 minutes of cooking. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. A squeeze of lemon juice can add a delightful brightness!
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Serve and enjoy: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley. This delicious dish is best enjoyed hot and fresh.
Cooking Tips for the Best Results
- For a richer flavor, use homemade chicken broth.
- Don’t overcook the pastina; it should be tender but not mushy.
- Feel free to add other vegetables like zucchini, green beans, or peas.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Variations to Explore
This recipe is incredibly versatile! Experiment with different flavors and ingredients:
- Spicy Chicken Pastina: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a kick.
- Lemon Chicken Pastina: Add the zest and juice of half a lemon at the end of cooking.
- Creamy Chicken Pastina: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or milk before serving.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate)
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 250-300
- Protein: 20-25g
- Fat: 5-8g
- Carbohydrates: 30-35g
This simple yet flavorful chicken pastina soup is a perfect example of delicious and healthy food recipes. It's a quick, easy, and satisfying meal that's sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Enjoy!