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Chicken Pastina Soup

A comforting bowl of chicken pastina soup, featuring tender chicken, sautéed vegetables, and tiny star-shaped pasta, perfect for chilly evenings.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner, Soup
Cuisine: American
Calories: 300
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Soup Base
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil Adds richness and helps to sauté the vegetables evenly.
  • 1 sweet onion sweet onion Provides a gentle sweetness and depth of flavor.
  • 2 stalks celery Adds crunch and a fresh, herbal aroma.
  • 2 medium carrots Contributes sweetness and vibrant color to the soup.
  • 1 medium red bell pepper Offers a touch of sweetness and a pop of color.
  • 2 cloves garlic Infuses the dish with a fragrant and savory essence.
  • 2 cups cooked chicken Delivers protein and heartiness, making the soup fulfilling.
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme Enhances the dish with earthy herbal notes.
  • 1 teaspoon Kosher salt Essential for seasoning.
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper Essential for seasoning.
  • 1 cup stelline pastina The tiny star-shaped pasta that adds fun and texture.
  • 6 cups low-sodium chicken stock Forms the soup base, rich in flavor without being too salty.
  • 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar Adds a slight tang and complexity to the dish.
  • 1/4 cup freshly chopped parsley Provides a vibrant garnish and a fresh burst of flavor.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Heat the olive oil in a soup pot over medium heat until shimmering.
  2. Add diced onion, celery, carrots, red bell pepper, and minced garlic. Cook for about 5 minutes until softened.
  3. Stir in the shredded chicken, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper, mixing well with the vegetables.
  4. Add the stelline pastina to the pot, combining it with chicken and vegetables.
  5. Carefully pour in the low-sodium chicken stock and raise the heat to bring the mixture to a boil.
  6. Stir in the balsamic vinegar.
  7. Reduce the heat and let the soup simmer for 8-10 minutes until the pastina is al dente and heated through.
  8. Ladle the soup into bowls, garnishing with freshly chopped parsley if desired.

Notes

To elevate the flavor, consider using homemade chicken stock. For a quicker prep, substitute rotisserie chicken. Add grated Parmesan cheese on top before serving for extra flavor. Always taste as you go to adjust seasoning.