Creamy Italian Chicken Soup with Pastina Comfort

Warm up with creamy Italian Chicken Soup with Pastina made with tender chicken, rich broth, and comforting plant-based cream flavors that come together in a bowl of pure comfort. This delicious Italian-inspired soup combines delicate pastina pasta, savory vegetables, and luscious creamy texture, making it the perfect meal for any cozy day. Whether you want a nourishing lunch or a relaxing dinner, this recipe will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Comfort food at its best: Creamy Italian Chicken Soup with Pastina delivers warmth and satisfaction with every spoonful.
• Simple ingredients: Uses easy-to-find pantry staples and fresh vegetables for a wholesome, approachable meal.
• Quick to prepare: Comes together in under an hour, perfect for busy weekdays or weekend indulgence.
• Versatile flavors: Customize with your favorite herbs and spices to make it your own special dish.
• Plant-based creaminess: Achieves rich texture without dairy, making it suitable for many dietary preferences.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering simple yet flavorful ingredients makes this recipe both straightforward and satisfying. Each component plays a vital role in building the depth, texture, and inviting color of this creamy Italian Chicken Soup with Pastina.

• Tender chicken breasts: Essential protein that becomes juicy and flavorful when simmered gently in broth.
• Pastina pasta: Small pasta pearls that soften perfectly and add a delightful mouthfeel.
• Carrots and celery: Classic Italian soup vegetables that contribute sweetness and crunch.
• Onion and garlic: Foundation aromatics that create a savory aroma and depth.
• Vegetable broth: Builds a flavorful, comforting base while keeping the recipe light.
• Plant-based cream (natural): Adds luscious creaminess without overpowering the delicate flavors.
• Fresh herbs: Basil and parsley brighten the soup with fresh, vibrant notes.
• Smoked turkey bacon: Provides a smoky touch that enhances the soup’s complexity.
• Vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural): Brings umami and a mild tang for balanced flavor.
• Olive oil: For sautéing and creating a silky texture.
• Natural gelling agent: Used to help achieve a smooth and comforting consistency.

Variations for Creamy Italian Chicken Soup with Pastina

This recipe is wonderfully adaptable, so you can tweak it to fit your mood or pantry availability. Feel free to try these variations to keep the soup exciting and personalized.

• Spicy kick: Add crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne for gentle heat.
• Vegetarian option: Substitute smoked turkey bacon with smoked turkey slices and use plant-based chicken substitutes.
• Extra greens: Stir in fresh spinach or kale in the last minutes of cooking for added nutrition.
• Chunkier texture: Leave some of the carrots and celery in larger pieces for a heartier bite.
• Cheesy twist: Sprinkle with grated plant-based Parmesan (plant-based) on top before serving.

How to Make Creamy Italian Chicken Soup with Pastina

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Start by finely dicing the onion, carrots, and celery to create a beautiful vegetable base. Cut the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces and set aside. Also, chop fresh herbs and prep smoked turkey bacon slices.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics and Smoked Turkey Bacon

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion, garlic, carrots, and celery, stirring until softened and fragrant. Toss in the chopped smoked turkey bacon and cook until slightly crisp, releasing amazing smoky flavors.

Step 3: Add Chicken and Broth

Stir in the chicken pieces, allowing them to brown lightly for extra flavor. Next, pour in the vegetable broth and add vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural). Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then lower the heat and simmer until the chicken is tender.

Step 4: Introduce Pastina and Plant-Based Cream

Add the pastina pasta to the pot and stir well. Cook just until the pasta softens but still holds its shape. Slowly mix in the plant-based cream (natural) and sprinkle in the natural gelling agent to create that beautifully velvety texture.

Step 5: Finish with Fresh Herbs and Seasoning

Remove the soup from heat and fold in chopped basil and parsley. Taste and adjust salt and pepper if needed. Let the soup rest for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld perfectly before serving.

Pro Tips for Making Creamy Italian Chicken Soup with Pastina

• Fresh is best: Use fresh herbs and vegetables for the most vibrant flavors and colors.
• Simmer gently: Avoid boiling aggressively after adding cream to prevent curdling.
• Control pasta texture: Cook pastina just until tender to prevent it from becoming mushy.
• Smoke notes: Toast smoked turkey bacon first in the pan to unlock maximum flavor.
• Customize creaminess: Adjust the amount of plant-based cream according to your preference for richness.

How to Serve Creamy Italian Chicken Soup with Pastina

Garnishes

Add a sprinkle of freshly chopped basil or parsley before serving to elevate the freshness and add a pop of color. For a little extra indulgence, drizzle with high-quality olive oil or dust with plant-based Parmesan (plant-based).

Side Dishes

This soup pairs beautifully with crusty bread or a warm focaccia, perfect for dipping and soaking up every bit of the luscious broth. A simple mixed green salad with a light lemon and olive oil dressing can provide refreshing balance.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the soup in rustic bowls with colorful napkins underneath for a cozy, inviting look. Try layering it in clear glass mugs for a charming presentation at casual gatherings, adding a small spoonful of extra cream on top for a gourmet touch.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place cooled soup in airtight containers and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Because pastina softens over time, it’s best to store the liquid and pasta separately if possible, then combine before reheating.

Freezing

Freeze the soup without the plant-based cream and pastina for up to 2 months in freezer-safe containers. When ready to eat, thaw overnight and add cream and pasta fresh to maintain texture and flavor.

Reheating

Gently rewarm the soup on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally. Avoid high heat to keep the cream from separating, and add a splash of broth or water if the consistency thickens too much.

FAQs

Can I make this soup vegan?

Definitely! Substitute the chicken with plant-based proteins and use smoked turkey slices in place of smoked turkey bacon to keep the smoky flavor without animal products.

What is pastina?

Pastina is a tiny, star-shaped Italian pasta that cooks quickly and adds a lovely tender texture to soups and broths.

Can I use other types of pasta?

Yes, small shapes like orzo or acini di pepe work beautifully, but adjust cooking times accordingly so they don’t overcook.

Is the plant-based cream necessary?

The plant-based cream (natural) is key to achieving that smooth, creamy texture that makes this soup so comforting, but you can use less for a lighter version.

How do I store leftovers to keep the best texture?

The best method is to store broth and pasta separately and combine them when reheating to prevent the pasta from becoming too soft.

Final Thoughts

Nothing beats a bowl of this Creamy Italian Chicken Soup with Pastina when you need a hug in a bowl filled with warm, inviting flavors and silky texture. It’s quick to prepare, easy to customize, and endlessly satisfying. Give this recipe a try and discover your new go-to comfort meal that delights every time.

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