Easy Chicken Pastina Recipe

Chicken Pastina is more than just a bowl of soup—it’s a warm embrace, a soothing remedy, and a dish deeply rooted in Italian-American culture. Often lovingly referred to as “Italian Penicillin”, this soup is known for its healing qualities, especially when you’re feeling under the weather. With simple ingredients and easy preparation, Chicken Pastina is a go-to meal that brings comfort to the soul and warmth to the stomach.

What is Chicken Pastina?

Chicken Pastina is a traditional Italian soup made with tiny pasta (known as pastina, which means “little pasta” in Italian), tender chicken, and a flavorful broth. The classic version includes vegetables, Parmesan cheese, and sometimes a beaten egg stirred in for extra richness.

Pastina itself often refers to small pasta shapes like stelline (little stars), acini di pepe, or ditalini. While pastina can refer to several varieties, stelline remains the most iconic choice for this dish.

A Brief History of Pastina

Pastina has its roots in Italian kitchens, where it was—and still is—a staple for children and the elderly. In immigrant Italian-American households, Chicken Pastina evolved into a comfort food, lovingly prepared by grandmothers (nonnas) and passed down through generations. It became a cultural tradition, often served during colder months or when someone in the family needed a nourishing, easy-to-digest meal.

Ingredients

Here’s everything you need to make a classic bowl of Chicken Pastina. These ingredients are easy to find, and the recipe is flexible enough for minor substitutions.

Ingredients (Serves 4)

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
• 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
• 1 medium carrot, peeled and diced
• 1 celery stalk, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups chicken broth (low sodium preferred)
• 2 cups water
• 1 cup pastina (stelline or acini di pepe)
• 1 cup cooked chicken, shredded or diced (rotisserie chicken works great)
• 1 large egg (optional, for creaminess)
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

This recipe comes together in less than 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights or a quick lunch on a chilly day.

Instructions:

1. Sauté the vegetables
   In a large pot, heat olive oil and butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrot, and celery. Cook for 4-5 minutes until the vegetables start to soften.
2. Add garlic and simmer the broth
   Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds. Pour in the chicken broth and water. Bring to a gentle boil.
3. Cook the pastina
   Add the pastina and reduce the heat to medium. Cook for about 7-8 minutes (or according to package instructions), stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
4. Add chicken
   Stir in the shredded cooked chicken. Allow it to heat through for 3-4 minutes.
5. Optional egg addition
   For extra richness, beat the egg in a small bowl. Slowly drizzle it into the soup while stirring constantly. This creates silky strands similar to egg drop soup.
6. Season and finish
   Add salt and pepper to taste. Stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and combined. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Delicious Variations

Chicken Pastina is a flexible dish with many delicious twists:

• Lemon Chicken Pastina Soup: Add the juice and zest of one lemon for a tangy, refreshing flavor.
• Chicken Pastina with Egg Only: Omit the chicken and add 1–2 beaten eggs stirred into hot pastina for a quick and comforting vegetarian meal.
• Vegetarian Pastina: Skip the chicken and use vegetable broth. Add mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach for a meatless version.
• Gluten-Free Chicken Pastina: Use a gluten-free pastina alternative made from corn or rice (e.g., Jovial or DeLallo brands).

Nutritional Benefits

A typical 1-cup serving of Chicken Pastina soup provides:

• Calories: ~250–300 kcal
• Protein: ~15g (thanks to chicken and egg)
• Carbs: ~30g (from pastina and vegetables)
• Fat: ~10g (from butter, olive oil, and cheese)
• Fiber: ~3g

This soup is rich in essential nutrients and particularly good for those recovering from illness, offering hydration, electrolytes, and easy-to-digest proteins.

Serving Suggestions

Chicken Pastina is best served hot, accompanied by:

• Crusty Italian bread or garlic bread
• A simple green salad with vinaigrette
• A side of roasted vegetables
• A light sprinkle of extra Parmesan on top

This meal is perfect for cozy dinners, lunch with loved ones, or sending to a friend who needs a pick-me-up.

Storage and Reheating Tips

To Store:
Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days.

To Reheat:
Warm in a saucepan over medium-low heat. Add a splash of broth or water if the soup has thickened.

To Freeze:
Freeze the broth and chicken mixture without the pasta. Add freshly cooked pastina when reheating to prevent sogginess.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What kind of pasta is best for Chicken Pastina?

Stelline (little stars) is the traditional choice. You can also use acini di pepe, orzo, or ditalini if stelline isn’t available.

Can I make Chicken Pastina ahead of time?

Yes! It stores well, but the pasta can absorb the broth over time. Consider storing the cooked pastina separately and combining just before serving.

Is Chicken Pastina freezer-friendly?

Partially. The broth and chicken freeze beautifully, but the pasta tends to get mushy. Freeze without the pastina and add it fresh when reheating.

What is the purpose of the egg in some recipes?

Adding a beaten egg creates a rich, velvety texture and adds protein. It’s optional but highly recommended for a creamy twist.

Why is it called “Italian Penicillin”?

Chicken Pastina is known for its healing qualities. The warm broth, protein, and easily digestible ingredients make it a go-to remedy during illness—hence the nickname “Italian Penicillin.”

Final Thoughts

Chicken Pastina is more than a recipe—it’s a tradition, a memory, and a feeling of home. Whether you’re introducing it to your kids or reviving a taste from your childhood, this dish delivers comfort in every spoonful.

So grab your pot, gather your ingredients, and enjoy the heartwarming joy of Chicken Pastina. Don’t forget to share it with someone you love—it’s a meal made for connection.

For more creative ideas, check out this One Pot Chicken Pomodoro Recipe.