Chicken Pastina With Stellini Pasta
How to make Chicken Pastina With Stellini Pasta
Ingredients:
Chicken thighs is a must more tender and lots of flavour
I use boneless and skinless I use 4 of them
Carrots (2)
Cellery (1 and half )
Onion (1)
Garlic (4)
Chicken stock cubes or stock fluid
To taste
I use 2 cubes alone with 4/5 hundred ml of water
Salt and pepper to taste !
Instructions:
I cook onion first till it is soft then add carrots and celery
Cook till soft then add garlic last. cut fine or crushed
Then I put the onion / veg garlic around edges of the pan and add a little extra olive oil in the centre to cook the chicken thighs
I put salt and pepper per side
I cook till white as it finishes cooking in the soup
I then add a little at a time the chicken stock / broth
Or hot water
Cook till chicken is pulled / tender / soft
At the last part of cooking when chicken is soft i then add the pastina of choice
Stelline / capellini spezzati / Ditali ( small tubes)
And many more small pasta shapes
Fresh parsley at the very end.
Notes:
Choice of Chicken Thighs: Using boneless and skinless chicken thighs is recommended for this recipe as they are more tender and flavorful compared to other cuts. About 4 chicken thighs should suffice for this dish.
Vegetable Base: The combination of carrots, celery, onion, and garlic forms a classic vegetable base that adds depth of flavor to the soup. Make sure to sauté these vegetables until they are soft and aromatic.
Layering Flavors: When cooking, arrange the onion, vegetables, and garlic around the edges of the pan while adding a little extra olive oil in the center for cooking the chicken thighs. This method helps infuse the chicken with the flavors of the vegetables.
Seasoning the Chicken: Season the chicken thighs generously with salt and pepper on each side to enhance their taste as they cook.
Adding Broth or Stock: Use chicken stock cubes or prepared chicken stock to create a flavorful broth for the soup. Gradually add the stock or hot water to the pan, allowing the chicken to simmer until it becomes tender and easy to pull apart.
Choosing Pasta: The recipe suggests using pastina of choice, such as stelline, capellini spezzati, or ditali (small tubes). These small pasta shapes are ideal for this soup and will cook quickly in the broth.
Finishing Touches: Add the chosen pastina to the soup during the final stages of cooking, allowing it to cook until tender and infused with the flavors of the broth.
Fresh Parsley: Incorporate fresh parsley at the very end to add brightness and a fresh herbal note to the dish.
Adjust Seasoning: Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper according to your preference before serving.
Serve Warm: Enjoy this comforting and hearty Chicken Pastina with Stellini Pasta as a complete meal. It’s perfect for a cozy dinner or lunch, especially during colder months.
Nutrition Information:
YIELDS: 4 | SERVING SIZE: 1
Calories per Serving: 300 | Protein: 25 grams | Carbohydrates: 25 grams | Fat: 10 grams
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can I use chicken breasts instead of chicken thighs?
Yes, you can substitute boneless, skinless chicken breasts for thighs.
However, thighs are recommended for their tenderness and flavor.
How can I make this recipe vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, substitute vegetable broth for chicken broth and omit the chicken. Increase the quantity of vegetables or add beans for protein.
Can I use different vegetables in this soup?
Yes, feel free to use a variety of vegetables like bell peppers, peas, or zucchini based on your preference.
What can I substitute for chicken stock cubes or fluid?
You can use homemade or store-bought vegetable broth as a substitute for chicken stock.
How long should I cook the chicken to ensure it’s tender?
Cook the chicken until it is no longer pink and easily pulls apart with a fork, which usually takes about 15-20 minutes.
What other pasta shapes can I use besides Stellini, Capellini spezzati, or Ditali?
You can use any small pasta shape you prefer, such as orzo, acini di pepe, or small shells.
Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the soup ahead of time and reheat it before serving.
Add the pasta during reheating to prevent it from becoming mushy.
How can I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.
Can I freeze this soup?
It’s best to freeze the soup without the pasta if you plan to freeze leftovers.
Add cooked pasta when reheating.
What can I serve with Chicken Pastina soup?
Serve the soup with crusty bread, a side salad, or some grated Parmesan cheese for added flavor.