Pastina Soup 🍲✨

This cozy and comforting Chicken Pastina Soup is often lovingly called “Italian Nonna’s Penicillin” for its reputation as a cure-all for whatever ails you. Perfect for a chilly day, this soul-warming dish is the ultimate pick-me-up.

While we feature plenty of chicken soup recipes on our site, this Italian Chicken Pastina Soup might just take the crown for being the most delicious and nourishing. Known for its wholesome ingredients and comforting flavors, it’s ideal for anyone feeling under the weather—or anyone craving a hug in a bowl.

Why We Love Italian Chicken Pastina Soup

In Italy, there are probably as many variations of Chicken Pastina Soup as there are cherished nonnas (grandmothers). Each family recipe has its unique spin, and some versions even skip the chicken altogether. This recipe is my personal twist on the classic—a hearty, vegetable-packed version that balances protein and a touch of pasta, making it a little lighter on carbs while still incredibly satisfying.

If you’re lucky enough to have an Italian nonna, this might not be her exact recipe—but it’s certainly inspired by the love and tradition that make her cooking so special.

Ready to Make This Recipe?

What is Pastina?

Before diving into this Chicken Pastina Soup, let’s talk about pastina. While it’s not a commonly used term in the U.S., in Italian, pastina simply means “small pasta.” These tiny pasta shapes are typically under a quarter inch in size and come in a variety of forms.

For this recipe, I use Acini di Pepe, which are tiny round pasta balls (pictured below). However, there are plenty of other pastina options to choose from, including:

• Orzo: Shaped like rice grains.
• Stelline: Tiny star shapes.
• Farfalline: Miniature bow ties.
• And many more!

Feel free to use any type of pastina for this soup—they’ll all work beautifully.

A Vegetable and Protein-Forward Take on Chicken Pastina Soup

As I mentioned earlier, this rendition of Chicken Pastina Soup emphasizes vegetables over pasta, making it a more balanced and nutrient-packed meal.

The recipe starts with a flavorful base of sautéed diced onion, shallot, celery, bell pepper, and garlic in olive oil with a touch of butter. This is followed by a generous addition of chicken broth and a whole pound of diced carrots for sweetness and texture.

“A warm, comforting Italian classic made with tiny pasta, broth, and simple ingredients. Perfect for chilly days or when you need a bowl of cozy nourishment.”

Ingredients

• 1 cup pastina pasta (tiny star-shaped pasta or any small pasta variety)
• 4 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian option)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (or butter)
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• 1 large egg, lightly beaten (optional, for richness)
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Broth

1. Heat the olive oil or butter in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the onion and sauté until softened, about 3–4 minutes.
3. Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

1. Pour the chicken broth into the pot and bring to a boil.
2. Add the pastina pasta and cook according to package instructions, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.

Step 3: Add the Egg (Optional)

1. If using the egg, reduce the heat to low and slowly drizzle the beaten egg into the soup, stirring gently to create ribbons.

Step 4: Season and Finish

1. Stir in the Parmesan cheese, allowing it to melt into the soup.
2. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 5: Serve

1. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan cheese, if desired.
2. Serve warm with crusty bread or crackers on the side.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes with simple pantry staples.
• Comforting and Nourishing: Perfect for when you’re feeling under the weather or need a quick, cozy meal.
• Customizable: Add vegetables, shredded chicken, or your favorite herbs for extra flavor.

Pro Tips

1. Extra Protein: Stir in shredded rotisserie chicken or a dollop of ricotta for added richness.
2. Thicker Soup: Use less broth for a heartier consistency.
3. Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat with a splash of broth to loosen the soup.

This Pastina Soup is a bowl of simple, classic comfort that brings warmth and joy to any table. Enjoy its delicate flavors and creamy texture—Italian comfort food at its finest! 🍲✨🇮🇹