Description
Comfort meets nostalgia in this classic Chicken Pastina recipe, where tender pasta and succulent chicken dance in a creamy, herb-infused broth. Simple ingredients create a heartwarming meal that connects generations, promising warmth and satisfaction with each comforting spoonful.
Ingredients
Scale
Protein:
- 4 cups chicken broth (store-bought or homemade)
Pasta:
- 1 cup pastina (tiny pasta, such as star-shaped pasta)
Seasonings and Extras:
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup Parmigiano Reggiano cheese, grated
- Salt to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Drizzle of olive oil
Instructions
- Heat chicken broth in a medium saucepan over medium-high temperature, ensuring a gentle simmer and adjusting salt to personal preference.
- Lower heat to medium and introduce pastina, stirring periodically during the 5-8 minute cooking process until pasta approaches al dente consistency.
- Remove pan from heat source and incorporate freshly ground black pepper, butter, and grated Parmigiano Reggiano, mixing thoroughly until butter completely dissolves.
- Transfer the creamy pastina into serving bowls, garnishing with additional black pepper and cheese as desired, then complete the dish with a delicate olive oil drizzle.
Notes
- Choose low-sodium chicken broth to control salt levels and create a lighter, healthier version of the dish.
- Stir pastina frequently during cooking to prevent sticking and ensure even, creamy texture throughout the pasta.
- Use freshly grated Parmigiano Reggiano for maximum flavor intensity and smoother melting compared to pre-grated cheese.
- Transform this recipe into a protein-packed meal by adding shredded rotisserie chicken or diced grilled chicken directly into the pastina before serving.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Dinner, Snacks
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 600 mg
- Fat: 7 g
- Saturated Fat: 3 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 23 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 6 g
- Cholesterol: 10 mg