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Chicken Pastina Soup

A warm and comforting chicken soup featuring tender pieces of chicken, vibrant vegetables, and star-shaped pasta in a flavorful broth, perfect for busy weeknights and family gatherings.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Main Course, Soup
Cuisine: American, Comfort Food
Calories: 300
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Soup Base
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil or avocado oil Provides a flavorful base for sautéing the vegetables.
  • 1 medium sweet onion Adds sweetness and depth to the soup.
  • 2 sticks celery sticks Offers a refreshing crunch and subtle flavor.
  • 2 medium carrots Contributes sweetness and vibrant color.
  • 1 medium red bell pepper Adds sweetness and enhances the visual appeal.
  • 3 cloves garlic Infuses the soup with aromatic flavor.
  • 3 cups cooked chicken Provides protein and makes the soup hearty.
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme Introduces an earthy note to the flavor profile.
  • 1 teaspoon Kosher salt Enhances the overall taste.
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper Enhances the overall taste.
  • 1 cup stelline pastina Small star-shaped pasta that adds fun and texture.
  • 6 cups low-sodium chicken stock Serves as the flavorful base of the soup.
  • 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar Adds a tangy finish that elevates the flavors.
  • 1/4 cup freshly chopped parsley Optional garnish for added freshness and color.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Heat the oil. Warm the olive oil in a soup pot over medium heat.
  2. Sauté the vegetables. Add the diced onion, celery, carrots, red bell pepper, and minced garlic, and sauté for 5 minutes until softened.
Cooking
  1. Add chicken and pasta. Stir in the shredded chicken, dried thyme, salt, pepper, and stelline pastina until combined.
  2. Pour in the stock. Add the low-sodium chicken stock and bring to a boil, stirring in the balsamic vinegar.
  3. Simmer. Reduce heat to a simmer and cook for 8-10 minutes, or until the pasta is al dente.
Serving
  1. Garnish and serve. Serve warm, garnished with freshly chopped parsley if desired.

Notes

For extra flavor, consider adding a bay leaf while simmering. Substituting the chicken with rotisserie chicken can save time. Serve with crusty bread on the side for a complete meal.