Why Make This Recipe

Italian Penicillin Soup is not just a delicious meal; it’s a warm, comforting dish that can lift anyone’s spirits. Perfect for chilly days or when you’re feeling under the weather, this soup combines wholesome ingredients into a nourishing bowl of goodness. Whether you are cooking for family or just for yourself, this recipe is simple to follow and full of flavor.

How to Make Italian Penicillin Soup

Ingredients:

2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
1 large onion, diced
3 medium carrots, sliced into rounds
3 celery stalks, chopped
4 garlic cloves, minced
8 cups low-sodium chicken broth or vegetable broth
1 whole chicken breast, bone-in and skin-on
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
Freshly grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese
Extra virgin olive oil for drizzling
Crusty Italian bread for serving

Directions:

Heat olive oil in a large, heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery, and cook for about 5-7 minutes until softened. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute.
Pour in chicken broth, add the chicken breast, bay leaves, oregano, thyme, and red pepper flakes. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat and simmer.
Cover and simmer for 25-30 minutes until the chicken is cooked. Remove the chicken, shred it, and return it to the pot.
Add pasta and cook until al dente.
Remove bay leaves, add lemon juice and parsley, and season to taste before serving.

How to Serve Italian Penicillin Soup

Serve this soup hot in large bowls. Drizzle a little extra virgin olive oil on top and sprinkle freshly grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese for added flavor. Pair with crusty Italian bread for a satisfying meal. It’s perfect for lunch or dinner and can even be enjoyed as a comforting snack!

How to Store Italian Penicillin Soup

If you have leftovers, let the soup cool to room temperature and store it in an airtight container. It can be kept in the fridge for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the soup. Make sure to allow it to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm on the stove.

Tips to Make Italian Penicillin Soup

For a heartier soup, add more vegetables such as peas or spinach at the end of cooking.
Use leftover roast chicken instead of fresh chicken breast for quicker preparation.
Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes based on your spice preference.
For a creamier soup, stir in a splash of heavy cream before serving.

Variation

You can make a vegetarian version of this soup by using vegetable broth and omitting the chicken. Instead, add additional legumes like chickpeas or lentils for protein. You can also add more seasonal vegetables to enhance flavor and nutrition.

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken in this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time as it may take longer to cook through.

What can I use instead of pasta?

If you want to keep this gluten-free, you can use rice, quinoa, or even skip the grains altogether for a lighter soup.

Can I add more spices?

Absolutely! Feel free to add your favorite spices or herbs to customize the flavor to your liking. Basil or rosemary makes a lovely addition.