When the sniffles arrive or the weather turns chilly, nothing soothes quite like a steaming bowl of homemade soup. Italian Penicillin Soup is a rustic twist on the classic chicken soup—brimming with tender chicken, hearty vegetables, fragrant herbs, and a touch of Italian love. It’s the kind of recipe that feels like it was made by a Nonna just for you, wrapping you up in warmth and nourishment with every spoonful.
This soup is wholesome, easy to prepare, and uses simple pantry staples, making it the perfect meal for beginners and seasoned cooks alike.
Recipe Info
| Category | Prep Time | Cook Time | Servings | Calories |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Soup / Comfort Food | 15 minutes | 40 minutes | 6 servings | ~280 kcal |
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 medium carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- ½ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- 8 cups chicken broth (low-sodium if possible)
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (rotisserie chicken works great)
- 1 cup small pasta (like ditalini, orzo, or elbow)
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
Step-By-Step Instructions
- Sauté the aromatics: In a large soup pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion, carrots, and celery. Cook for 5–6 minutes, until softened.
Tip: Stir occasionally to avoid burning the garlic once added. - Add the flavor base: Stir in garlic, oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes (if using). Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Build the soup: Pour in the chicken broth and diced tomatoes. Stir well and bring to a gentle boil.
- Simmer & add chicken: Reduce heat to low and stir in shredded chicken. Let simmer for 15 minutes to allow the flavors to blend.
- Cook the pasta: Add pasta and cook until al dente (about 8–10 minutes, depending on pasta type).
- Finish with freshness: Stir in fresh parsley and lemon juice. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Serve: Ladle into bowls and sprinkle generously with Parmesan cheese. Serve warm.
Helpful Notes & Tips
- Chicken shortcut: A rotisserie chicken makes this recipe even faster.
- Pasta tip: Cook pasta separately and add it when serving to prevent sogginess if storing leftovers.
- Storage: Store in airtight containers in the fridge for 3–4 days, or freeze for up to 2 months (without pasta).
Recipe Variations
- Protein swap: Use turkey or Italian sausage instead of chicken for a new twist.
- Veggie boost: Add spinach, kale, or zucchini in the last few minutes of cooking.
- Lighter version: Skip the pasta and add extra vegetables for a lower-carb option.
- Spice lovers: Increase red pepper flakes or add a splash of hot sauce.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with warm crusty bread or garlic bread for dipping.
- A simple side salad with Italian dressing makes it a complete meal.
Conclusion
Whether you’re under the weather or just craving something cozy, Italian Penicillin Soup is a hug in a bowl. It’s nourishing, flavorful, and perfect for sharing around the family table. Brew up a big pot and let it bring warmth and comfort to your kitchen!