How to Make Pasta Fazool with Chicken: A Simple Recipe

Growing up in an Italian-American kitchen, I learned that some recipes are more than just food. They’re memories wrapped in warmth and comfort. The recipe for pasta fazool made with chicken is one such dish. It turns simple ingredients into a hearty, soul-satisfying meal rooted in traditional Italian cuisine.

This classic comfort food combines tender chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, and creamy beans. It’s all in a rich, aromatic broth that speaks to generations of home cooking. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a soul-warming meal, this recipe for pasta fazool with chicken is perfect. It promises to deliver both nutrition and nostalgia.

Introduction to Traditional Italian-American Pasta Fazool

Pasta fazool is a beloved dish in Italian-American culture. It started as a simple meal in Italy, becoming a favorite comfort food. It warms hearts and fills bellies across generations.

History of Pasta e Fagioli

The story of chicken pasta fazool begins in Italian countryside kitchens. Pasta e Fagioli, or “pasta and beans,” was made with affordable ingredients. Families mixed beans, small pasta, veggies, and meats for a nutritious meal.

Why Add Chicken to Traditional Fazool

Chicken adds protein to the fazool, making it more filling. It also makes the dish more appealing to today’s tastes. The lean meat pairs well with beans and pasta.

IngredientNutritional Benefit
ChickenHigh protein, low fat
BeansFiber and complex carbohydrates
PastaEnergy-providing carbohydrates

Health Benefits of This Hearty Italian Soup

Chicken pasta fazool has about 375 calories. It’s packed with nutrients. The mix of ingredients offers health benefits like:

  1. Sustained energy
  2. Balanced protein intake
  3. Rich fiber content
  4. Vitamins A and C

“Pasta Fazool isn’t just a meal—it’s a taste of family history and cultural heritage.”

Essential Ingredients for Chicken Pasta Fazool

To make the perfect ditalini pasta soup, pick the right ingredients. They should bring the true taste of Italy to your home. Your chicken broth soup will be amazing with the best mix of fresh veggies and top-notch proteins.

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 medium carrot, finely diced
  • 1 stalk celery, chopped
  • 1 yellow onion, diced
  • 4 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce
  • 4 cups chicken broth

Seasonings are key for deep flavors. Make sure you have:

  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • Fresh ground black pepper
  • Sea salt to taste

The main ingredients that make this dish hearty are:

  • 1½ cups ditalini pasta
  • 1 (15-ounce) can cannellini beans
  • Shredded or diced chicken

“The magic of pasta fazool lies in its simple, rustic ingredients that come together to create something extraordinary.”

Pro tip: Use fresh, high-quality ingredients to make your chicken broth soup stand out. Your ditalini pasta soup will be a hit!

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

To make a tasty fazool with escarole, you need the right tools. The right equipment can turn a good meal into a great one. Let’s look at the cookware and accessories that will make your pasta fazool better.

Essential Cookware for Perfect Soup

For your chicken pasta fazool, get some key tools. Start with:

  • Large stock pot or Dutch oven (at least 6-quart capacity)
  • Sharp chef’s knife for precise vegetable chopping
  • Wooden spoon for stirring
  • Measuring cups and spoons

Optional Tools to Enhance Your Cooking

Some extra tools can make cooking easier and more fun. Think about getting:

  • Food processor for quick vegetable preparation
  • Immersion blender for creating smooth textures
  • Digital kitchen scale for precise ingredient measurements

Storage Solutions for Leftover Fazool

Keep your parmesan cheese topping fresh. Choose good containers for freezing and refrigerating. Go for:

  • Airtight glass containers with secure lids
  • Freezer-safe plastic containers
  • Portion-sized storage options for easy reheating

“The right tools can transform a simple recipe into a culinary masterpiece.” – Italian Cooking Wisdom

With these essentials, you’re ready to make a delicious chicken pasta fazool. It will wow your family and friends.

Recipe for Pasta Fazool Made with Chicken

Hearty Italian Soup with Chicken

Making the perfect pasta fazool with chicken needs focus and the right ingredients. This Italian soup is full of flavor and protein. It will make you feel warm and happy.

Ingredients You’ll Need

  • 2 teaspoons olive oil
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 large white onion, diced
  • 3 celery stalks, chopped
  • 12 ounces boneless, skinless chicken thighs, diced
  • 4 cups vegetable or chicken stock
  • 2 (15-ounce) cans white beans, drained and rinsed
  • 2 (15-ounce) cans diced tomatoes

Seasonings and Herbs

  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • Black pepper to taste
  • 2 teaspoons dried basil
  • 2 teaspoons dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes

This recipe turns pasta fazool into a hearty meal. Using boneless, skinless chicken thighs adds flavor and tenderness. The herbs and spices make it both comforting and healthy.

“In every spoonful of pasta fazool, you’ll taste the rich culinary heritage of Italian home cooking.” – Italian Culinary Tradition

Additional Components

  • 2 cups water
  • 8 ounces whole wheat pasta (fusilli, elbows, or shells)
  • 3 ounces grated Parmesan cheese

Experts say to use cannellini or Great Northern beans for the best texture. Your chicken pasta fazool will feed about 12 people. Each serving is full of taste and health benefits.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Making a traditional Italian dish like chicken pasta fazool needs patience and skill. This guide will show you how to make this tasty soup with care and flavor.

Preparing the Aromatic Base

First, heat olive oil in a big pot over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook for about 3 minutes, stirring often. This helps release the garlic’s scent without burning.

  • Use fresh garlic cloves for maximum flavor
  • Stir continuously to prevent burning
  • Cook until garlic becomes fragrant

Adding Chicken and Seasonings

Then, add diced chicken to your pot. Cook for about 5 minutes until it’s nicely browned. This step makes the soup’s flavor richer.

  • Dice chicken into uniform pieces
  • Season with salt, pepper, basil, and oregano
  • Brown chicken thoroughly for enhanced taste

Incorporating Pasta and Beans

After building your base flavors, add chicken broth, cannellini beans, and chopped tomatoes. Let it simmer for about 30 minutes. This lets the flavors mix well.

  1. Pour in 3½ cups of low-sodium chicken broth
  2. Add 2 cans of cannellini beans
  3. Stir in 1 large can of chopped tomatoes
  4. Simmer covered for 30 minutes

Lastly, add pasta and water, then simmer for another 20 minutes. You’ll get a hearty, authentic Italian dish that’s both comforting and healthy.

Tips for Perfect Pasta Texture

Ditalini Pasta Soup Texture Tips

To get the perfect texture in your ditalini pasta soup, you need to be precise. This Italian-American dish can turn mushy if not cooked right. The trick is to cook your pasta just right, keeping it al dente.

There are a few key steps to master pasta texture:

  • Add ditalini pasta toward the end of cooking
  • Simmer for exactly 7-9 minutes
  • Stir occasionally to prevent sticking
  • Remove from heat just before pasta reaches full tenderness

Your aim is to find the perfect balance between soft and firm. Timing is everything in this classic dish. Keep a close eye on your pasta and check its texture often in the last few minutes.

“The secret to great pasta is respecting its natural cooking rhythm.” – Italian Culinary Tradition

If your soup gets too thick, you can fix it. Just add a bit of hot water or broth to thin it out. Remember, pasta soaks up liquid even after it’s cooked, so aim for slightly undercooked.

Pro tip: Let your soup rest for 5 minutes after cooking. This allows flavors to blend and pasta to get just right. This short wait makes a big difference in your dish’s texture and taste.

Variations and Customizations

Creating your own fazool recipe lets you make this classic Italian soup your own. You can add your special touch to make it unforgettable.

Vegetable Enhancements

Add more veggies to your fazool for better taste and health. Here are some great options:

  • Chopped escarole for a peppery green dimension
  • Diced zucchini for extra texture
  • Sliced carrots for natural sweetness
  • Chopped spinach for added iron

Herb Flavor Profiles

Herbs can change your fazool recipe a lot. Try these tasty mixes:

  • Classic Italian blend: Basil, oregano, rosemary
  • Rustic mix: Sage, thyme, parsley
  • Spicy variant: Red pepper flakes, dried chili

Protein Alternatives

Don’t just use chicken in your fazool. Here are other protein choices:

  • Ground beef for a hearty version
  • Pancetta for authentic Italian flavor
  • Tofu for a vegetarian alternative
  • White beans for added protein

“Cooking is an art, and every recipe is a canvas waiting for your personal touch.” – Anonymous Chef

Storage and Reheating Guidelines

Keeping your chicken broth soup fresh is key. It’s all about how you store and reheat it. With the right steps, your homemade pasta fazool will stay delicious for a long time.

Refrigerator Storage

For storing your Italian soup, use an airtight container in the fridge. Here’s what to do:

  • Store for up to 3 days
  • Use a sealed container to maintain freshness
  • Keep refrigerator temperature below 40°F

Freezing Instructions

Freezing your soup is a great way to keep its flavor for later:

  • Use airtight containers or freezer bags
  • Leave 1 inch of space for liquid expansion
  • Freeze for up to 3 months
  • Thaw overnight in the refrigerator

Reheating Techniques

Here’s how to reheat your soup:

  1. Stovetop: Reheat in a pot over medium-low heat
  2. Microwave: Heat in 30-second increments
  3. Add a splash of water or chicken broth to restore consistency
  4. Ensure internal temperature reaches 165°F

“A great soup tastes even better the next day!” – Cooking Wisdom

Pro tip: Stir occasionally during reheating to distribute heat evenly and maintain the soup’s delightful texture.

Storage Nutrition Quick Reference

Storage MethodDurationTemperature
Refrigerator3 daysBelow 40°F
Freezer3 months0°F or lower

By following these tips, your soup will stay safe, tasty, and ready to eat whenever you want!

Nutritional Information and Dietary Considerations

Your recipe for pasta fazool made with chicken is more than tasty. It’s also packed with nutrients. Knowing the nutritional breakdown helps you make smart food choices.

Caloric and Macronutrient Profile

A typical serving of chicken pasta fazool is well-balanced:

  • Calories: Approximately 366 per serving
  • Protein: 14.22 grams
  • Carbohydrates: 60.21 grams
  • Fat: 6.72 grams

Micronutrient Highlights

The soup is rich in important nutrients:

  • Vitamin A: 332.28 IU
  • Iron: 4.54 mg
  • Calcium: 45.05 mg
  • Potassium: 145.39 mg

Dietary Modifications

This recipe is flexible for different diets:

  1. Low-sodium option: Cut down on salt or use low-sodium broth
  2. Gluten-free alternative: Use gluten-free orzo instead of regular pasta
  3. Vegetarian adaptation: Swap chicken with plant-based protein

“Nutrition isn’t about perfection, it’s about balance and enjoying wholesome, delicious food.” – Chef’s Wisdom

Understanding the nutritional value lets you enjoy pasta fazool as part of a healthy diet. Every spoonful is a delight.

Serving Suggestions and Garnishes

When you’re ready to serve this delightful italian-american dish, presentation can elevate your chicken pasta fazool from simple soup to a restaurant-worthy meal. Your garnishing choices can transform the flavor profile and visual appeal of the dish.

The ultimate finishing touch for your pasta fazool is a generous parmesan cheese topping. Freshly grated Parmesan adds a rich, savory dimension that complements the soup’s hearty base.

  • Fresh chopped parsley
  • Crisp fresh basil leaves
  • Extra virgin olive oil drizzle
  • Freshly ground black pepper

Perfect Serving Companions

  • Crusty Italian bread
  • Warm garlic breadsticks
  • Simple green salad
  • Bruschetta

Your serving temperature matters. Serve the soup piping hot to maximize flavor and comfort. A ceramic bowl can help retain heat and create an inviting presentation.

“A great soup is like a warm hug for your taste buds.” – Chef Mario Batali

Serving Size Recommendations

Serving TypePortion Size
Main Course1.5 cups
Starter/Appetizer1 cup

Pro tip: Always have extra parmesan cheese on hand for those who love an extra sprinkle!

Conclusion

Your journey to make the ultimate hearty Italian soup ends here. But the tasty memories will last forever. The chicken pasta fazool recipe you’ve learned is more than a meal. It’s a culinary experience that warms your kitchen and comforts your table.

This soup’s rich flavors and health benefits show that home cooking can be simple yet amazing. By mastering this recipe, you’ve found a dish that fits your taste and dietary needs. It’s perfect for a quick dinner or a cozy meal on a cold day.

The soup’s low-fat, high-fiber profile is great for those watching their health. The secret to this Italian soup’s charm is its simplicity and deep flavors. With just a few ingredients and some care, you can make a meal that everyone will love.

Remember, cooking is about more than just following steps. It’s about making moments, sharing love, and enjoying the journey. Buon appetito!

FAQ

What exactly is pasta fazool?

Pasta fazool, or pasta e fagioli, is a classic Italian-American soup. It mixes pasta, beans, and veggies in a tasty broth. This dish is a beloved comfort food that came from Italy and was adopted in the U.S.

Can I make pasta fazool with chicken instead of the traditional recipe?

Yes, you can! Traditional recipes might not include meat, but chicken adds protein and makes the meal more filling. Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are a great choice because they’re flavorful and tender.

What type of pasta is best for pasta fazool?

Ditalini pasta is the classic choice for pasta fazool. Its small, tube shape is perfect for soups, holding the broth well and adding texture. But, you can also use small shells or orzo if ditalini is hard to find.

How long can I store leftover pasta fazool?

Leftover pasta fazool can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days. If you freeze it, it can last up to 3 months. Just remember, the pasta might get softer when you reheat it.

Is pasta fazool a healthy meal?

Yes, pasta fazool is nutritious! It’s packed with protein from chicken and beans, fiber from beans and veggies, and carbs. It’s a complete meal that fits well into a balanced diet.

Can I make a vegetarian version of pasta fazool?

Definitely! Omit the chicken and use vegetable broth instead. Add more veggies like zucchini, carrots, or escarole for extra nutrition and taste. Beans will keep providing protein in the veggie version.

What should I serve with pasta fazool?

Pasta fazool goes great with crusty Italian bread, a simple green salad, or garlic bread. Top it with Parmesan cheese and olive oil for extra flavor.

How can I prevent the pasta from becoming mushy?

To avoid mushy pasta, add it towards the end of cooking and don’t overcook. If you’re making leftovers, cook the pasta separately. Then, add it to individual portions to keep it firm.

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