Slow Cooker Pastina Soup (Italian Penicillin Soup) Recipe

Slow Cooker Pastina Soup, also known as Italian Penicillin Soup, is a comforting and nourishing dish that’s perfect for chilly days or when you need a little pick-me-up. Made with tender chicken, tiny pastina pasta, and simple vegetables, this soup is rich in flavor and incredibly easy to prepare. Let your slow cooker do the work, and enjoy a warm bowl of this traditional Italian favorite.

Table of Contents

• Introduction
• Ingredients
• Instructions
• Cooking Tips & Notes
• Variations
• FAQs
• Conclusion

Ingredients

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 medium carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 8 cups chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 bay leaf
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 1 cup uncooked pastina (or any small pasta)
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
• Grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for serving)

Instructions

Step 1: Add Ingredients to the Slow Cooker

1. Place the chicken breasts (or thighs), chopped onion, diced carrots, diced celery, minced garlic, chicken broth, dried thyme, bay leaf, salt, and black pepper into the slow cooker. Stir to combine.

Step 2: Cook the Soup

1. Cover the slow cooker with the lid and cook on low heat for 6-7 hours or on high heat for 3-4 hours, or until the chicken is tender and easily shredded.

Step 3: Shred the Chicken

1. Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks.
2. Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker.

Step 4: Add the Pastina

1. About 20-30 minutes before serving, add the uncooked pastina to the slow cooker and stir to combine.
2. Cover and cook on high heat until the pastina is tender, about 20-30 minutes.

Step 5: Serve

1. Remove the bay leaf from the soup and discard it.
2. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with chopped fresh parsley and grated Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve warm and enjoy!

Cooking Tips & Notes

• Chicken Choice: You can use either chicken breasts or thighs for this recipe. Thighs tend to be juicier and add more flavor to the soup.
• Pastina: If you can’t find pastina, any small pasta shape like orzo or acini di pepe will work well as a substitute.
• Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like diced zucchini or spinach during the last 30 minutes of cooking for added nutrition.
• Thickening the Soup: For a slightly thicker consistency, you can mash some of the cooked vegetables with a fork before adding the pastina.

Variations

• Lemon Chicken Pastina Soup: Add the juice of one lemon and some lemon zest before serving for a bright, citrusy flavor.
• Vegetarian Pastina Soup: Omit the chicken and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Add extra vegetables like mushrooms and kale for a hearty vegetarian version.
• Creamy Pastina Soup: Stir in 1/2 cup of heavy cream or half-and-half during the last 10 minutes of cooking for a creamy twist.
• Spicy Pastina Soup: Add 1/2 teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I Use Cooked Chicken?

Yes, you can use cooked shredded chicken if you have leftovers. Add it to the slow cooker during the last 30 minutes of cooking, along with the pastina, to warm through.

2. How Do I Store Leftover Soup?

Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave until warmed through.

3. Can I Freeze Pastina Soup?

Yes, you can freeze the soup, but it’s best to do so without the pastina, as pasta can become mushy after freezing. When reheating, add freshly cooked pastina to the soup.

4. What Can I Serve with Pastina Soup?

This soup pairs well with crusty bread, garlic breadsticks, or a simple green salad. You can also serve it with a side of roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

Slow Cooker Pastina Soup, or Italian Penicillin Soup, is a comforting and delicious dish that’s perfect for any time you need a little warmth and comfort. With tender chicken, delicate pastina, and a flavorful broth, this classic soup is sure to be a hit with family and friends. Let your slow cooker do the work, and enjoy a bowl of this nourishing, feel-good soup any day of the week. Give it a try, and experience the cozy taste of homemade Italian comfort food!