The aroma hit me like a warm embrace, swirling in the air and beckoning from the kitchen—a pot of Chicken Pastina Soup simmering away, also lovingly dubbed Italian Nonna’s Penicillin Soup. This beloved dish is a soul-soother, perfect for chilly evenings or when you just need a comforting pick-me-up. Packed with tender vegetables and tiny, delightful pasta, it not only nourishes the body but also creates a wave of nostalgia, reminiscent of family gatherings and Sunday dinners. Plus, this nourishing gem is quick to whip up, making it a go-to for busy weeks. Ready to dive into a bowl of cozy? Your spirit—just like your taste buds—will thank you!
Why is this soup so comforting?
Comforting, this Chicken Pastina Soup is known as Italian Nonna’s Penicillin—crafted to warm the soul and soothe the senses. Nourishing and wholesome, this delicious broth is filled with vibrant vegetables and soft pasta, making it the ultimate feel-good meal. Quick and easy, it comes together in no time, perfect for busy weeknights. Versatile, you can swap in seasonal veggies like zucchini or spinach to keep things fresh. Crowd-pleasing, it’s a dish that brings families together, whether you’re serving a cozy dinner or hosting a gathering. Explore more soups like this comforting Garlic Soup Comfort or White Bean Soup to keep your meal rotations exciting!
Chicken Pastina Soup Ingredients
• Dive into the heart of this comforting dish with these flavorful essentials!
For the Broth
- Extra Virgin Olive Oil – Adds a rich, healthy fat; feel free to use vegetable oil for a lighter touch.
- Butter – Enhances depth and flavor; omit for a dairy-free version or substitute with more olive oil.
- Low-Sodium Chicken Broth – The delicious base for your soup; opt for vegetable broth for a vegetarian or vegan option.
For the Vegetables
- Onion – Essential for sweetness and depth; any yellow onion will do if you’re out of a specific type.
- Shallot – Adds a gentle, nuanced flavor; you can substitute with extra onion if needed.
- Celery – Provides a delightful crunch and enhances the broth; use any firm green vegetable in its place.
- Yellow Bell Pepper – Introduces sweetness and color; any bell pepper variety can be swapped in, or simply omit for a lighter soup.
- Garlic – Infuses the soup with aromatic goodness; fresh is best, but garlic powder works in a pinch.
- Carrots – Contributes natural sweetness; feel free to use parsnips or sweet potatoes as delicious alternatives.
For the Pasta & Protein
- Pastina – The star of the dish, ensuring a comforting texture; consider using orzo or tiny star pasta instead.
- Rotisserie or Leftover Chicken – Offers protein and flavor; leftovers can always be substituted with beans for a vegetarian twist.
For the Final Touches
- Kosher Salt – Balances out the flavors beautifully; any salt can replace it—just adjust for the volume.
- Parmesan Rind – Adds a glorious umami depth; it’s optional but truly enhances the deliciousness of the broth.
- Grated Parmesan – The ultimate cheesy topping to melt your heart; switch it with nutritional yeast for a non-dairy option.
- Fresh Rosemary and/or Thyme – Brings an herby brightness; don’t hesitate to use dried if fresh isn’t on hand.
With these ingredients, you’re all set to create a bowl of Italian Nonna’s Penicillin Soup that encapsulates warmth, nostalgia, and comfort!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Italian Penicillin Soup
Step 1: Heat the Base
Begin by warming a large Dutch oven or pot over medium heat. Add 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter, letting the butter melt until it begins to foam. Swirl the pan occasionally to ensure the oil and butter combine effectively, creating a rich base for your Chicken Pastina Soup.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
Once the butter is sizzling, add chopped onion, shallot, diced celery, and yellow bell pepper to the pot. Sauté these aromatic veggies for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions become translucent and fragrant. This step builds a flavorful foundation that will enhance your nourishing soup.
Step 3: Add Garlic
Stir in 3 minced garlic cloves and cook for an additional 2 minutes, allowing the garlic to release its wonderful aroma. Keep an eye on it to prevent burning, as you want that sweet, pungent flavor to infuse your pot without bitterness. This will add depth to your comforting Chicken Pastina Soup.
Step 4: Pour in the Broth
Add 6 cups of low-sodium chicken broth, along with diced carrots and a Parmesan rind if you have one. Season with kosher salt to enhance the flavors. Raise the heat, bringing the mixture to a rolling boil, then reduce it to a simmer uncovered for 20-25 minutes. Your vegetables should be tender, making the broth flavorful and hearty.
Step 5: Blend for Smoothness
After simmering, carefully remove the Parmesan rind and set aside 2 cups of the cooked veggies for later. Using an immersion blender, blend the remaining soup mixture until smooth and creamy, allowing it to reach that silky texture. If you don’t have an immersion blender, let it cool slightly and blend in batches in a regular blender.
Step 6: Cook the Pastina
Return the blended soup to the heat and bring it back up to a gentle simmer. Stir in 1 cup of pastina, cooking according to the package directions, roughly 9 minutes. Keep an eye on it as it simmers, ensuring the small pasta is perfectly tender, yet still holds its shape in your comforting Chicken Pastina Soup.
Step 7: Incorporate the Chicken
Once the pastina is cooked, gently stir in the reserved vegetables and about 2 cups of shredded rotisserie chicken into the pot. Mix thoroughly to combine all those nourishing elements, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully in your Chicken Pastina Soup as it warms through.
Step 8: Let it Rest
Cover the pot and let your Chicken Pastina Soup sit for about 20 minutes. This resting period allows the flavors to deepen and come together, creating a warming, comforting dish that feels like a hug in a bowl.
Step 9: Serve with Love
Before serving, taste your soup and adjust the seasoning as needed. Serve hot, garnished with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of herbs like rosemary or thyme. This final touch elevates your Italian Penicillin Soup, making it even more inviting for a cozy meal.
Expert Tips for Italian Penicillin Soup
-
Perfect Balance: Adjust the broth: If you find the soup too thick, simply add more broth until it reaches your desired consistency.
-
Flavor Infusion: Use fresh herbs: Fresh rosemary or thyme enhances the herbal notes, but if unavailable, dried herbs work beautifully too.
-
Chop Efficiently: Invest in a good knife or a chopper: A quality knife can make chopping vegetables easier and faster, improving your cooking experience.
-
Avoid Overcooking: Monitor the pastina: Keep an eye on the pasta as it cooks; overcooking can make it mushy. Aim for al dente for the best texture.
-
Nutritional Boost: Add greens: Consider tossing in some spinach or kale during the last minutes of cooking for an extra nutrient boost in your Italian Penicillin Soup.
-
Keep Seasoning Simple: Taste before serving: Always taste your soup before serving to adjust seasoning, as flavors can develop more during the resting period.
What to Serve with Chicken Pastina Soup
Imagine serving up a bowl of warm goodness that’s hearty enough to stand alone, yet elevates your meal to another level with perfect pairings.
-
Warm Crusty Bread: The crisp exterior and soft interior of freshly baked bread, perfect for dipping into the comforting soup. It adds a delightful texture contrast and is simply irresistible.
-
Simple Green Salad: A light and refreshing salad with mixed greens, cucumber, and a zesty vinaigrette cuts through the richness of the soup, adding a crunchy freshness.
-
Garlic Bread: Rich and buttery, this is a fantastic accompaniment, with its golden, crispy crust complementing the savory flavors of the Chicken Pastina Soup perfectly.
-
Cheesy Grilled Cheese: The gooey, melty cheese and crispy bread of a grilled cheese sandwich create a nostalgia-driven, comforting pairing that warms the heart even further.
-
Herb-Infused Rice: Fragrant rice sprinkled with fresh herbs provides a subtle, savory side dish that absorbs the broth beautifully, making each bite a delicious experience.
-
Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal, caramelized veggies add a delightful sweetness and hearty texture, enhancing the nourishing quality of your Italian Penicillin Soup.
-
Olive Tapenade: A small bowl of this savory spread offers a briny, rich note that pairs beautifully, providing a burst of flavor alongside the soothing soup.
-
Lemonade or Iced Tea: Refreshing beverages like iced tea, with a hint of lemon, balance the warmth of the soup, making for a well-rounded meal experience.
-
Homemade Apple Crisp: A warm, comforting dessert packed with tender apples and a crunchy topping, it rounds out the meal with its sweet, inviting flavors, perfect for a cozy night in.
These pairings transform a simple bowl of Chicken Pastina Soup into a delightful, complete meal that warms the body and soul!
Make Ahead Options
Preparing Chicken Pastina Soup ahead of time is a fantastic way to save precious minutes on busy weeknights! You can sauté the vegetables and make the broth up to 3 days in advance, storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Additionally, you can pre-cook the pastina and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the broth, add the reserved vegetables and cooked chicken, and stir in the pre-cooked pastina. This strategy not only ensures that every bowl is just as nourishing and comforting but also helps you enjoy a homemade meal in no time!
Storage Tips for Chicken Pastina Soup
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days, ensuring the soup remains fresh and ready for a cozy meal.
Freezer: You can freeze Chicken Pastina Soup for up to 3 months. Make sure it’s cooled completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container or bag.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stove. Add a splash of broth if it’s too thick.
Airtight Storage: Always use airtight containers to preserve flavor and prevent freezer burn, ensuring your comforting Chicken Pastina Soup is as delicious as when freshly made.
Italian Penicillin Soup Variations
Feel free to get creative and make this Chicken Pastina Soup your own; it’s all about enhancing those cozy flavors!
- Leafy Greens: Toss in fresh spinach or kale for a burst of green goodness. They’ll add nutrients and a lovely color contrast.
- Seasonal Veggies: Use whatever vegetables are in season—think zucchini or peas—to keep your soup vibrant and fresh all year round.
- Gluten-Free: Swap pastina for gluten-free pasta or omit it entirely. Adjust the broth quantity to maintain the soup’s delicious depth.
- Spicy Kick: Add a few dashes of crushed red pepper or a sprinkle of cayenne for that extra warmth and zing in every spoonful.
- Creamy Twist: Stir in a splash of cream or dairy-free alternative at the end for a truly luxurious and rich soup experience.
- Heritage Touch: Infuse the soup with a dash of Italian seasoning for more herbaceous flavor, or use fresh basil for an aromatic touch.
- Protein Boost: Substitute chicken with white beans or lentils for a vegetarian twist that’s just as hearty and satisfying.
- Savory Additions: Consider adding a splash of soy sauce or a few dashes of Worcestershire sauce for a umami boost that takes the flavor to another level.
You can discover more delicious soups like this comforting Potsticker Soup Warm or the hearty Cheese Steak Soup to keep your table brimming with flavor!
Chicken Pastina Soup Recipe FAQs
What type of pasta should I use for Chicken Pastina Soup?
For the perfect texture, you should use small pasta like pastina, which are tiny shapes such as acini di pepe. However, you can also substitute with orzo or tiny star pasta if you prefer. Just keep in mind the cooking times might vary slightly based on the pasta type.
How do I store leftover Chicken Pastina Soup?
Store your leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where it will stay fresh for up to 4 days. If you’re looking to save it for longer, you can freeze it for up to 3 months. Be sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container to maintain the best flavor.
Can I freeze Chicken Pastina Soup?
Absolutely! To freeze Chicken Pastina Soup, cool it completely first. Then, pour it into a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag, leaving some space for expansion. It freezes beautifully for up to 3 months. Just thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating.
What should I do if my soup is too thick?
If your Chicken Pastina Soup turns out too thick, it’s an easy fix! Simply stir in additional broth or even a splash of water while reheating. Keep adding until you reach your desired consistency. This not only revives the texture but also enhances the flavor as it incorporates further.
Are there any dietary considerations for making this soup?
If you’re looking to make this soup vegetarian, you can swap the low-sodium chicken broth for vegetable broth and replace the chicken with white beans or chickpeas. Additionally, keeping an eye on the Parmesan options, you can use nutritional yeast for a non-dairy twist that’s perfect for lactose sensitivities.
How can I select the best vegetables for my Chicken Pastina Soup?
When choosing vegetables, opt for fresh, firm produce—like crisp celery, vibrant bell peppers, and bright carrots—for maximum flavor and nutrition. Avoid any that have dark spots or are overly soft, as these indicate spoilage. Using seasonal veggies not only enhances flavors but can also add variety to your comforting Chicken Pastina Soup.
Nourishing Italian Penicillin Soup for Cozy Comfort Meals
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Begin by warming a large Dutch oven or pot over medium heat. Add olive oil and butter, letting the butter melt until it begins to foam.
- Add chopped onion, shallot, diced celery, and yellow bell pepper. Sauté for 4-5 minutes, until onions become translucent.
- Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
- Add chicken broth, diced carrots, and Parmesan rind. Season with kosher salt. Bring to a rolling boil, then reduce to a simmer uncovered for 20-25 minutes.
- Remove the Parmesan rind and set aside 2 cups of the cooked veggies. Blend the remaining soup until smooth and creamy.
- Return the blended soup to heat and stir in pastina, cooking according to package directions.
- Gently stir in reserved vegetables and shredded chicken into the pot.
- Cover and let soup sit for about 20 minutes.
- Taste and adjust seasoning before serving. Serve hot, garnished with Parmesan cheese and herbs.
Leave a Reply