Delicious Parmesan Chicken Pastina Soup Recipe for Cozy Nights

When you think of comfort food, nothing quite hits the spot like a warm, cozy bowl of soup. This Parmesan Chicken Pastina Soup welcomes you with open arms, promising a blissful blend of rich flavors, tender chicken, and tiny pasta that dances on your taste buds. Each spoonful embraces you in a warm hug, making it the perfect dish to chase away the chills of a rainy day or to illuminate a chilly night with its comforting warmth.

Imagine walking into your kitchen, the enticing aroma of sautéed vegetables filling the air, while the broth simmers gently, coaxing out the flavors like a night of heartfelt storytelling among good friends. This dish is more than just a meal; it’s a nostalgic reminder of inviting family dinners and cozy gatherings where laughter rings through the air. It’s the kind of soup you turn to for warmth on cool evenings or to share with loved ones for special occasions, promising flavor explosions in every single bite.

Ingredients for Parmesan Chicken Pastina Soup Recipe

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Parmesan Chicken Pastina Soup Recipe:

2 tablespoons butter, divided – Use unsalted butter for better control over the saltiness of the soup.

4 cups hot water – A splash of heat helps to infuse flavors quickly.

8 cups room temperature water – This cools the broth down slightly after the initial simmer.

2 medium diced onions, divided – Sweet onions release their natural sugars and aroma as they cook.

4 chopped carrots – They add a subtle sweetness and vibrant color to the soup.

4 stalks chopped celery – Essential for the flavor base, offering a fresh crunch.

8-10 (~.5 ounce) dried porcini or shiitake mushrooms – These add a deep, earthy flavor and umami punch.

1 bay leaf – This aromatic leaf enhances the complexity of your broth.

4 sprigs thyme – Fresh thyme brightens up the flavors, giving your soup a garden-fresh vibe.

1 tablespoon kosher salt, plus more – Season to taste throughout the cooking process.

1 cup (8 ounces) parmesan rind, cut into 16-20 pieces – A flavor powerhouse that enriches the broth.

1 clove garlic, pressed – A fragrant touch that complements the other flavors.

1 cup stelline pasta (or small shells, etc) – Tiny pasta adds a charming touch and heartiness to the soup.

2 cups cooked chicken, shredded – This can be leftover rotisserie chicken for ease or freshly cooked chicken for a savory touch.

Kosher salt + white pepper – Adjust these to your taste preferences for seasoning.

Zest of 1 lemon – Adds a bright, zesty finish to your soup.

2 tablespoons lemon juice – Enhances the soup’s flavor profile with brightness.

Parmesan + parsley, for topping – Fresh toppings add the final touch, making each bowl irresistible.

How to Make Parmesan Chicken Pastina Soup Recipe

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious Parmesan Chicken Pastina Soup Recipe:

Step 1: Sauté Vegetables
In a large soup pot, melt a tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add half the diced onions, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about four minutes until softened. Toss in the dried mushrooms, bay leaf, thyme, and cheese rinds. Stir everything together and let it cook for an additional four minutes.

Step 2: Build the Broth
Slowly drizzle in the hot water, giving it a good stir to deglaze the pan and lift those delicious bits stuck at the bottom. Pour in the remaining room temperature water and kosher salt. Bring everything to a simmer, ensuring that you stir often to develop a flavorful broth.

Step 3: Simmer for Flavor
Turn the heat down to medium-low and let the mixture simmer for 50 to 60 minutes. This slow cooking extracts all those wonderful flavors. Stir regularly to prevent the cheese rinds from sticking to the pot. Afterward, strain the broth and set it aside.

Step 4: Sauté More Veggies
In the same pot, add the leftover tablespoon of butter and a splash of oil. Sauté the remaining diced onions, carrots, and celery with a pinch of salt for around seven minutes. Add the pressed garlic and sauté for an additional minute, letting those aromas waft through your kitchen.

Step 5: Add Broth and Chicken
Pour in your prepared stock and bring it to a gentle simmer. Incorporate the shredded chicken along with the stelline pasta, cooking for about six to seven minutes or according to the package instructions. Remember to stir often to get everything mingling together beautifully.

Step 6: Finish and Serve
Turn off the heat, then add in the lemon zest and juice. Give your soup a final taste and adjust the salt as needed. Serve warm in bowls, topped with freshly grated Parmesan and a sprinkle of parsley for that perfect finishing touch.

This soup is not just nourishment; it’s a warm note of love and a sprinkle of comfort in every bowl. Reheating leftovers will serve you well, as flavors meld even more beautifully overnight. Enjoy your cozy evenings with a smile on your face and this delectable masterpiece in your bowl.

Perfecting Parmesan Chicken Pastina Soup Recipe Cooking Process

Start by sautéing your aromatics before adding the mushrooms and herbs; this maximizes their flavors. After simmering the broth, prepare the chicken and pasta side by side for an efficient, seamless cooking experience.

Add Your Touch to Parmesan Chicken Pastina Soup Recipe

Feel free to swap in your favorite vegetables like spinach or kale or toss in some fresh herbs for a flavor boost. You can also experiment with different types of pasta or add a kick of heat with red pepper flakes.

Storing & Reheating Parmesan Chicken Pastina Soup Recipe

Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply warm it gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water if it thickens.

Sharing this soup with my family turned a chilly evening into a cozy gathering; hearing everyone rave about the comforting flavors made my heart swell with joy.

FAQs About Parmesan Chicken Pastina Soup Recipe

What is Parmesan Chicken Pastina Soup Recipe?

Parmesan Chicken Pastina Soup Recipe is a comforting dish that combines the rich flavors of parmesan cheese, tender chicken, and small pasta shapes, creating a hearty yet delicate broth. This homemade soup integrates fresh vegetables like carrots, onions, and celery, along with aromatic herbs that enhance its depth. It’s a perfect meal for chilly nights or when you’re in need of a cozy dish that warms the soul. With its delightful texture and savory taste, this recipe is not just a meal; it’s an experience.

How long does it take to make Parmesan Chicken Pastina Soup?

Preparing Parmesan Chicken Pastina Soup takes about 1 hour and 45 minutes from start to finish. This includes approximately 15 minutes of prep time, where you chop your vegetables and measure out ingredients, followed by 1 hour and 30 minutes of cooking. The two-step cooking process allows for the development of a rich broth and tender chicken, offering a deliciously full flavor profile. Plan accordingly if you’re looking to enjoy this meal on a weeknight!

Can I customize Parmesan Chicken Pastina Soup Recipe?

Absolutely! The beauty of the Parmesan Chicken Pastina Soup Recipe lies in its versatility. You can swap the veggies according to your preference, using greens like spinach or kale for added nutrients. Experiment with different pasta shapes or even add red pepper flakes for a spicy kick. Fresh herbs like basil or parsley can elevate the flavors further. Let your creativity shine by adjusting the ingredients to fit your taste or what’s available in your pantry!

Can I store leftovers of Parmesan Chicken Pastina Soup?

Yes, you can store leftovers of Parmesan Chicken Pastina Soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, warm it gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water if it thickens too much. This makes it a fabulous option for meal prep. Enjoy the comforting flavors all over again, making weeknight dinners or busy lunch hours easier and delicious!

Conclusion for Parmesan Chicken Pastina Soup Recipe

In summary, the Parmesan Chicken Pastina Soup Recipe is a delightful way to warm up during those cold evenings. It’s packed with flavors, textures, and nutrients that make it a wholesome option for family meals. The versatility of this recipe allows for various ingredient adjustments, making it suitable for any pantry. Whether you’re aiming for comfort or flavor, this soup hits the mark every time. Give it a try, and enjoy the deliciousness of homemade cooking!

Delicious Parmesan Chicken Pastina Soup Recipe for Cozy Nights

This Parmesan Chicken Pastina Soup recipe is a warm and comforting dish perfect for chilly nights.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 1 hour hr 30 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr 45 minutes mins

Servings: 6 servings

Course: Dinner Recipes

Cuisine: Italian

Calories: 206

Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients

  

1x2x3x?

• 2 tablespoon butter divided
• 4 cups hot water
• 8 cups room temp water
• 2 medium diced onions divided
• 4 chopped carrots
• 4 stalks chopped celery
• 8-10 (~.5 ounce) dried porcini or shiitake mushrooms
• 1 bay leaf
• 4 sprigs thyme
• 1 tablespoon kosher salt plus more
• 1 cup parmesan rind cut into 16-20 pieces
• 1 clove garlic pressed
• 1 cup stelline pasta (or small shells, etc)
• 2 cups cooked chicken shredded
• kosher salt + white pepper to taste
• 1 each zest of lemon
• 2 tablespoon lemon juice
• Parmesan + parsley for topping

Equipment

• Large soup pot

Method

 

1. In a large soup pot, melt a tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add half the onions, chunks of carrots, and celery, and sauté for 4 minutes. Add mushrooms, bay leaf, thyme, and cheese rinds. Let cook for another 4 minutes. Slowly drizzle in the hot water as you stir and scrape to deglaze the pan. Add the remaining water and kosher salt. Bring to a simmer, stirring to ensure nothing is stuck.
2. Lower the heat to medium-low and let simmer for 50-60 minutes, stirring often to prevent the cheese from sticking. Strain the broth and set aside.
3. In the same soup pot, add the remaining tablespoon of butter and a tablespoon of oil. Sauté the remaining onions, carrots, and celery with a pinch of salt for 7 minutes. Add the garlic and sauté for 1 minute. Add 8 cups of prepared stock and bring to a simmer.
4. Add the shredded chicken and pasta and cook for 6-7 minutes or as indicated on the package, stirring often. Turn off the stove, add the lemon zest and juice. Adjust with salt as needed. Serve warm topped with Parmesan and parsley.

Nutrition

Serving: 1bowlCalories: 206kcalCarbohydrates: 16gProtein: 13gFat: 10gFiber: 3g

Notes

This recipe is great for meal prep and can be customized with different vegetables or pasta shapes according to your preference.

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