When the weather turns chilly or you’re feeling under the weather, nothing warms the body and soul like a comforting bowl of soup. Italian Penicillin Soup is inspired by classic Italian flavors and designed to soothe and nourish. Combining tender chicken, aromatic vegetables, fragrant herbs, and a splash of fresh lemon, this soup delivers healing comfort in every spoonful. The name “penicillin” is a playful nod to its restorative properties, reminiscent of the way chicken soup has long been celebrated for boosting immunity and soothing colds. Lightly seasoned, aromatic, and hearty, it’s easy to prepare yet full of depth, making it perfect for weeknight dinners, family meals, or anytime you crave a comforting, homemade dish. Pasta added to the soup creates a satisfying texture, while fresh parsley and lemon juice brighten the flavors, making this classic Italian-inspired soup both delicious and nourishing.
🧂 Ingredients
Base Ingredients:
2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil – for sautéing vegetables and building flavor.
1 large onion, diced (about 1 cup) – adds sweetness and aromatic depth.
3 medium carrots, sliced into rounds – provide natural sweetness, color, and nutrients.
3 celery stalks, chopped – classic aromatics for flavor and texture.
4 garlic cloves, minced – essential for depth and warmth.
8 cups low-sodium chicken broth (or vegetable broth for vegetarian option) – forms the flavorful base of the soup.
1 whole chicken breast, bone-in and skin-on (about 1 pound) – tender protein that enriches the broth.
2 bay leaves – add subtle herbal flavor.
1 cup small pasta (ditalini, orzo, or small shells) – tender pasta for texture and heartiness.
Seasonings & Aromatics:
1 teaspoon dried oregano – classic Italian flavor.
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme – adds warmth and depth.
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional) – for a gentle kick of heat.
Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste – enhances and balances flavors.
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice – brightens and adds a fresh, tangy finish.
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped – garnish that adds freshness, color, and aroma.
Optional toppings: grated Parmesan, extra lemon wedges, or a drizzle of olive oil for richness.
🍳 Method
Step 1: Prepare Aromatics
Heat the olive oil in a large stockpot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add diced onion, carrots, and celery, and sauté for 5–7 minutes until softened and fragrant. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30–60 seconds until aromatic. This forms the flavorful foundation of the soup.
Step 2: Add Chicken and Broth
Place the whole chicken breast into the pot and pour in the chicken or vegetable broth. Add the bay leaves, oregano, thyme, red pepper flakes (if using), and a pinch of salt and pepper. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cover and cook for 20–25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
Step 3: Remove Chicken and Shred
Carefully remove the chicken breast from the pot and set aside to cool slightly. Remove and discard the bay leaves from the broth. Shred the chicken using two forks and return it to the pot. This ensures even distribution and makes the soup hearty and satisfying.
Step 4: Cook the Pasta
Add the small pasta to the simmering broth and cook according to package instructions, usually 8–10 minutes, until tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure the pasta absorbs the flavors of the soup.
Step 5: Finish with Lemon and Parsley
Remove the soup from heat and stir in fresh lemon juice. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley and stir gently. The lemon and parsley brighten the soup and provide a fresh, vibrant flavor.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Ladle the soup into bowls, garnish with extra parsley or Parmesan if desired, and serve hot. Each spoonful delivers a comforting combination of tender chicken, flavorful broth, aromatic vegetables, and perfectly cooked pasta. Pair with crusty bread for a full, warming meal.
🌿 Expert Tips for Success
Use bone-in, skin-on chicken for a richer, more flavorful broth. Add pasta toward the end to prevent overcooking. Simmer gently — boiling too rapidly can make the chicken tough. Taste before serving and adjust seasonings for balance. For extra flavor, you can simmer the broth with a clove of garlic or a piece of Parmesan rind before adding vegetables.
🥄 Variations
Vegetarian Version: Use vegetable broth and omit chicken, adding extra vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms for heartiness.
Spicy Version: Increase red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce for heat.
Herb Variation: Add rosemary or basil for additional aromatic notes.
Gluten-Free Pasta: Use rice or gluten-free pasta to make this soup suitable for gluten-free diets.
Extra Protein: Add shredded rotisserie chicken or cooked chickpeas for a protein boost.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
Serve with crusty bread, garlic bread, or a simple side salad. For a more Italian-inspired meal, offer grated Parmesan or a drizzle of high-quality olive oil on top. A glass of white wine, such as Pinot Grigio, pairs beautifully with the light, aromatic flavors.
🧊 Storage and Reheating Tips
Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Pasta may absorb more liquid over time; add a splash of broth when reheating.
Freezer: Freeze without pasta for up to 2 months. Add fresh pasta when reheating to maintain texture.
Reheating: Gently reheat on the stove over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally. Adjust seasoning and lemon juice if needed.
🧮 Nutrition Information (Approximate per serving)
Calories: 290 | Protein: 25 g | Fat: 10 g | Carbohydrates: 20 g | Fiber: 3 g | Sodium: 750 mg
This soup provides a balanced, comforting meal with lean protein, complex carbohydrates, and vitamins and minerals from fresh vegetables and herbs. It’s light, nourishing, and ideal for boosting energy and immunity.
⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid
Overcooking chicken — can become dry; simmer gently. Cooking pasta too early — adds mushiness; add toward the end. Skipping aromatics — onion, garlic, and celery are essential for depth of flavor. Not adjusting seasoning — always taste and balance salt, pepper, and lemon. Boiling too vigorously — can make vegetables and chicken tough.
💭 Conclusion
Italian Penicillin Soup is a comforting, healing, and satisfying meal that combines tender chicken, flavorful broth, fresh vegetables, and perfectly cooked pasta. Its bright notes of lemon and parsley elevate the classic chicken soup into a vibrant Italian-inspired dish. Easy to prepare, versatile, and nutrient-rich, this soup is perfect for cold days, recovery meals, or any time you need a bowl of comforting warmth.
Italian Penicillin Soup Recipe: Comfort Food That Heals
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4–6 servings
Description
Italian Penicillin Soup is a comforting, nourishing bowl of goodness that warms you from the inside out. With tender chicken, hearty vegetables, pasta, and bright lemon and parsley, it’s perfect for cozy nights or when you need a little comfort food that heals.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 large onion, diced (about 1 cup)
- 3 medium carrots, sliced into rounds
- 3 celery stalks, chopped
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 8 cups low-sodium chicken broth (or vegetable broth for vegetarian option)
- 1 whole chicken breast, bone-in and skin-on (about 1 pound)
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 cup small pasta (ditalini, orzo, or small shells)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion, carrots, and celery; sauté 4–5 minutes until softened.
- Add garlic and cook 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add chicken breast, chicken broth, and bay leaves. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer 20–25 minutes until chicken is cooked through.
- Remove chicken and shred the meat; discard bones and skin. Return shredded chicken to the pot.
- Stir in pasta, dried oregano, thyme, and red pepper flakes. Simmer 8–10 minutes until pasta is tender.
- Add lemon juice and chopped parsley. Adjust salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve hot and enjoy a comforting, healing soup.
Notes
- For a vegetarian version, skip the chicken and use vegetable broth; add beans for protein.
- Leftovers store in the fridge for up to 3 days and can be reheated gently on the stove.
- Optional: garnish with grated Parmesan or a drizzle of olive oil.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: One-Pot
- Cuisine: Italian-Inspired
❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use boneless chicken? Yes, but bone-in chicken adds more flavor to the broth.
2. Can this soup be vegetarian? Yes, use vegetable broth and omit chicken.
3. Can I use other types of pasta? Small pasta like orzo, ditalini, or shells work best.
4. How do I store leftovers? Refrigerate for up to 3 days or freeze broth without pasta for 2 months.
5. Can I make this soup spicy? Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
6. Can I use pre-cooked chicken? Yes, add it in the last few minutes to warm through.
7. Can I make this ahead of time? Prepare broth and vegetables, then add chicken and pasta when ready to serve.
8. Can I use gluten-free pasta? Yes, cook separately and add to the soup before serving.
9. How do I enhance the flavor? Simmer the broth with aromatics like garlic or Parmesan rind before adding vegetables.
10. Can I add other vegetables? Yes, zucchini, spinach, or green beans are great additions.
This Italian Penicillin Soup is a cozy, flavorful, and healing meal that combines comfort, nutrition, and Italian-inspired flavors in a simple, easy-to-make soup perfect for any occasion.
