Comforting, flavorful, and immune-boosting, the Italian Penicillin Soup Recipe is the ultimate remedy for cold nights, seasonal sniffles, or just a cozy dinner. Inspired by the traditional healing powers of chicken, garlic, and herbs, this soup marries the rich flavors of Italian cuisine with wellness-focused ingredients. Each spoonful brings warmth, nourishment, and a hint of lemony brightness, making it perfect for family meals or solo self-care nights.
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!Whether you’re new to homemade soups or a seasoned chef, this Italian Penicillin Soup Recipe is designed to be easy, satisfying, and packed with benefits that go beyond flavor. By combining simple pantry staples with aromatic herbs, this soup becomes a natural immunity booster that tastes as good as it feels.
Why You’ll Love This Italian Penicillin Soup Recipe
Immune-Boosting Ingredients – Garlic, onion, and fresh herbs help strengthen your immune system.
Hearty & Comforting – Tender chicken, flavorful broth, and small pasta create a soul-satisfying meal.
Quick & Easy to Make – Prep in under 20 minutes and enjoy in about an hour.
Budget-Friendly – Affordable ingredients that feed a crowd without breaking the bank.
Customizable – Adaptable for gluten-free, vegetarian, or dairy-free diets.
Family-Friendly – Mild yet flavorful; loved by kids and adults alike.
Perfect for Cold Nights – Warm, nourishing, and ideal for recovery days or cozy dinners.
Ingredients
Base 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)
Seasonings & Aromatics
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
Garnishes & Finishing Touches
Freshly grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese
Extra virgin olive oil for drizzling
Crusty Italian bread for serving
Substitution Notes:
For gluten-free diets, replace pasta with rice or omit entirely.
Vegetarians can skip chicken and use vegetable broth with white beans for protein.
Dairy-free? Skip the cheese or use nutritional yeast for a similar umami flavor.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Base
Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onions, carrots, and celery. Sauté until softened, about 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Food Science Tip: Cooking the aromatics slowly releases natural sugars, enhancing the depth of flavor in your broth.
2. Add Garlic & Herbs
Stir in minced garlic, oregano, thyme, and red pepper flakes. Cook for 1–2 minutes until fragrant but not browned.
Sensory Indicator: You’ll notice a rich, earthy aroma—this is the flavor foundation forming.
3. Incorporate Broth & Chicken
Pour in the chicken broth, then gently place the chicken breast in the pot. Add bay leaves, a pinch of salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Bring to a simmer.
Scientific Note: Simmering chicken slowly allows proteins to release collagen, naturally thickening and enriching the broth.
4. Simmer & Skim
Simmer gently for 30–40 minutes, occasionally skimming foam or impurities for a clear, golden broth. Remove the chicken and shred it once cooled slightly.
5. Add Pasta & Finish
Stir in the small pasta and shredded chicken. Cook until pasta is tender, about 8–10 minutes. Remove from heat and add lemon juice and chopped parsley.
6. Garnish & Serve
Serve hot with freshly grated Parmigiano-Reggiano, a drizzle of olive oil, and crusty bread. Enjoy immediately for the ultimate comforting effect.
Pro Tips
How Can I Make the Soup More Immune-Boosting?
Adding extra garlic, a touch of turmeric, or a sprinkle of black pepper enhances immune benefits while adding subtle flavor layers.
Can I Make This Soup Vegetarian?
Yes! Replace chicken with white beans and use vegetable broth. Add mushrooms for extra umami depth.
How Do I Keep the Pasta From Getting Mushy?
Cook pasta separately and combine just before serving, or add directly to the soup in the last 8–10 minutes.
Can I Freeze Italian Penicillin Soup?
Freeze in airtight containers for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stovetop to prevent pasta from overcooking.
Best Ways to Serve
Pair with Garlic Parmesan Breadsticks or a Tuscan Chicken Pasta side.
Top with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of Parmesan for visual appeal and flavor punch.
Nutrition (Per Serving, ~2 Cups)
Calories: 280 kcal
Protein: 24g
Carbs: 18g
Fat: 12g
Fiber: 2g
Sodium: 750mg (adjust with low-sodium broth)
Storage & Leftovers
Refrigerator: Store in airtight containers for up to 4 days. Reheat on low heat to preserve flavor.
Freezer: Freeze up to 3 months. Avoid reheating with pasta already cooked to prevent mushiness.
Reheating Tip: Add a splash of broth or water to restore consistency.
FAQs
What is Italian Penicillin Soup?
Italian Penicillin Soup is a hearty chicken and pasta soup inspired by traditional Italian remedies for colds. Garlic, herbs, and chicken combine for immune support and comfort.
Can I Make It Spicy?
Yes! Add extra red pepper flakes, a pinch of cayenne, or chopped chili for a warming kick.
Is This Soup Kid-Friendly?
Absolutely! Keep the spice minimal for children and adjust flavors with extra parsley and cheese.
How Do I Make It Creamy?
Stir in a splash of heavy cream, coconut milk, or Greek yogurt at the end for a rich, creamy texture.
What Herbs Work Best?
Oregano, thyme, and parsley are traditional, but rosemary or basil can be added for extra aroma.
Variations
Immune-Boosting Italian Chicken Soup: Add turmeric, ginger, and extra garlic.
Vegetarian Italian Penicillin Soup: Use vegetable broth, white beans, and mushrooms.
Gluten-Free Italian Penicillin Soup: Substitute rice or omit pasta entirely.
Cozy Winter Variation: Add diced potatoes and kale for heartiness.
Lemon Herb Variation: Increase lemon juice and zest for a bright flavor twist.
Conclusion
Embrace the healing warmth of this Italian Penicillin Soup Recipe—a comforting, flavorful, and immune-boosting dish perfect for cold nights, family dinners, or wellness-focused meals. This soup not only nourishes the body but delights the senses with every spoonful.