Italian Penicillin Soup Recipe: Comfort Food That Heals

There are few dishes as soothing and nourishing as a bowl of Italian Penicillin Soup. This hearty, aromatic soup brings together tender chicken, savory vegetables, pasta, and fragrant herbs into a comforting broth that warms both body and soul. Often referred to as a modern twist on the classic chicken soup, Italian Penicillin Soup takes inspiration from traditional remedies and elevates them with Italian flavors. Perfect for cold days, under-the-weather evenings, or whenever you crave a comforting, homemade meal, this soup is designed to be both restorative and satisfying. Its rich, golden broth infused with garlic, herbs, and lemon, paired with tender chicken and pasta, makes every spoonful a blend of health and flavor. It’s easy enough for weeknight dinners yet impressive enough to serve for guests. The combination of vegetables, chicken, and aromatics creates a balance of sweetness, savoriness, and depth, while a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil and a sprinkle of Parmigiano-Reggiano elevate it to a comforting Italian classic. This guide will walk you step by step through preparing the soup, from choosing the freshest ingredients to achieving the perfect broth and pasta consistency, plus tips for flavor variations, serving, storage, and answers to common questions.

Ingredients for Italian Penicillin Soup

Main Ingredients
2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil – Adds depth and richness when sautéing the vegetables and garlic.
1 large onion, diced (about 1 cup) – Provides a sweet, savory base flavor for the broth.
3 medium carrots, sliced into rounds – Adds natural sweetness, color, and texture.
3 celery stalks, chopped – Balances the sweetness of carrots and enhances aromatic depth.
4 garlic cloves, minced – The signature aromatic, boosting flavor and health properties.
8 cups low-sodium chicken broth (or vegetable broth for vegetarian option) – Forms the nourishing liquid base. Bone broth can be used for an extra boost of nutrients and flavor.
1 whole chicken breast, bone-in and skin-on (about 1 pound) – Provides tender, juicy chicken and natural flavor for the broth. Skin-on chicken enriches the soup’s body.
2 bay leaves – Classic herb that adds subtle depth to the soup’s aroma.
1 cup small pasta (ditalini, orzo, or small shells) – Completes the soup, giving it heartiness and texture.

Seasonings & Aromatics
1 teaspoon dried oregano – Adds traditional Italian flavor.
½ teaspoon dried thyme – Offers subtle earthy notes.
¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional) – Adds a gentle heat to contrast the mild flavors.
Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste – Essential for balancing flavors.
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice – Brightens the soup with acidity, enhancing the overall taste.
¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped – Provides a fresh herbal finish.

Garnishes & Finishing Touches
Freshly grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese – Adds umami and richness to the finished soup.
Extra virgin olive oil for drizzling – Enhances flavor and mouthfeel.
Crusty Italian bread for serving – Perfect for dipping and completing the meal.

Step-by-Step Method

Step 1: Prepare the Aromatics Begin by heating the extra virgin olive oil in a large soup pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the diced onion, sliced carrots, and chopped celery. Sauté for about 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened and aromatic. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1–2 minutes, taking care not to burn it.

Step 2: Add the Chicken and Broth Place the whole chicken breast into the pot along with the bay leaves. Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, ensuring the chicken is fully submerged. Raise the heat to bring the soup to a gentle boil, then reduce to a simmer. Skim any foam that rises to the surface to keep the broth clear and flavorful.

Step 3: Simmer and Infuse Flavors Cover the pot partially and let the soup simmer for 25–30 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and tender. The slow simmer allows the flavors from the chicken, vegetables, and aromatics to meld together into a rich and comforting broth.

Step 4: Remove and Shred the Chicken Carefully remove the chicken from the pot and set aside to cool slightly. Once cool enough to handle, shred the meat into bite-sized pieces, discarding the skin and bones if desired. Return the shredded chicken to the pot.

Step 5: Add Seasonings and Pasta Stir in the dried oregano, thyme, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and black pepper. Bring the soup back to a gentle boil, then add the small pasta. Cook according to the package instructions, typically 7–10 minutes, until the pasta is tender but still al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Step 6: Finish with Fresh Ingredients Once the pasta is cooked, remove the pot from the heat. Stir in the fresh lemon juice and chopped parsley to add brightness and freshness to the soup. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

Step 7: Serve and Garnish Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish each serving with freshly grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese and a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil. Serve hot alongside slices of crusty Italian bread for dipping.

Tips for the Perfect Italian Penicillin Soup

• Use bone-in chicken for richer flavor; remove bones before serving.
• Avoid overcooking the pasta by adding it towards the end of cooking.
• Adjust the amount of garlic based on preference — the soup benefits from robust flavor.
• Skim any impurities from the surface of the broth for a clear and clean-tasting soup.
• Add seasonal vegetables like zucchini or spinach for extra nutrition.
• For vegetarian versions, replace chicken with beans or additional vegetables and use vegetable broth.

Flavor Variations

1. Spicy Italian Penicillin Soup: Add extra red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne for warmth.
2. Creamy Version: Stir in ¼ cup of heavy cream or coconut milk for a richer texture.
3. Herb-Forward: Use fresh thyme and oregano instead of dried for a more vibrant herbal flavor.
4. Lemon-Garlic Boost: Increase lemon juice to 3 tablespoons and add roasted garlic for extra brightness.
5. Protein Swap: Replace chicken breast with shredded rotisserie chicken or turkey for convenience.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the soup as a main course with crusty bread or garlic bread. Pair it with a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal. Garnish with extra parsley, lemon zest, or a sprinkle of chili flakes for added flavor.

Storage and Freezing Tips

Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezer: Cool completely, then freeze in portions for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of broth to restore consistency.
Pasta Consideration: If planning to freeze, cook the pasta separately or undercook slightly to avoid mushy texture after reheating.

Nutritional Information (Approximate per Serving)

Calories: 250 kcal | Protein: 25 g | Fat: 8 g | Carbohydrates: 20 g | Fiber: 3 g | Sugar: 3 g | Sodium: 350 mg

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

• Overcooked Chicken: Simmer gently and check for doneness to avoid dry meat.
• Mushy Pasta: Add pasta towards the end of cooking and cook just until al dente.
• Underseasoned Broth: Taste and adjust salt and pepper before serving.
• Bland Flavor: Don’t skip lemon juice or fresh parsley — they add brightness and depth.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Italian Penicillin Soup is more than a meal; it’s a remedy for the soul. It combines wholesome ingredients, healing flavors, and Italian culinary techniques to create a dish that is nourishing, comforting, and satisfying. It’s simple to make, adaptable for dietary preferences, and full of flavor from every spoonful. This soup brings the warmth and care of traditional homemade chicken soup into a flavorful Italian-inspired dish that can be enjoyed any time of year.

Conclusion

From its aromatic vegetables to tender chicken and perfectly cooked pasta, Italian Penicillin Soup is a one-pot wonder that warms the body and heart. It’s ideal for family dinners, meal prep, or as a comforting remedy when feeling under the weather. By following this step-by-step guide, you’ll achieve a soup that is flavorful, nutritious, and satisfying. Garnished with fresh herbs, Parmigiano-Reggiano, and served with crusty bread, it’s an Italian take on the classic chicken soup that delivers healing and comfort in every spoonful.

Print

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Can I make this soup vegetarian? Yes, replace chicken with hearty vegetables or beans and use vegetable broth.
2. Can I use leftover cooked chicken? Absolutely, add shredded cooked chicken when the pasta is nearly done.
3. How can I make it spicier? Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne powder.
4. Can I freeze this soup? Yes, freeze before adding pasta for best texture.
5. Can I use boneless chicken? Yes, but bone-in adds more flavor to the broth.
6. Can I make this soup in a slow cooker? Yes, combine all ingredients except pasta and cook on low for 6–8 hours. Add pasta at the end.
7. What pasta works best? Small shapes like ditalini, orzo, or small shells hold up well in the soup.
8. How do I enhance the flavor? Finish with fresh lemon juice, parsley, and a drizzle of good quality extra virgin olive oil.

This Italian Penicillin Soup is comforting, flavorful, and versatile. It’s a dish that nourishes, warms, and satisfies — the perfect homemade remedy in a bowl.