Name: Italian Penicillin Soup
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 2 tbsp olive oil; 1 small onion, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2 medium carrots, sliced; 2 celery stalks, sliced; 1 tsp salt (adjust to taste); ½ tsp black pepper; 1 tsp dried oregano; ½ tsp dried thyme; ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional); 1 ½ lbs bone-in, skinless chicken thighs (or boneless chicken breast); 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth; 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes; 1 Parmesan rind (for extra flavor, optional); 1 bay leaf; ½ cup small pasta (orzo, ditalini, or pastina); 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped; ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice (for brightness)

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Short Description

Italian Penicillin Soup is a comforting, immune-boosting dish featuring tender chicken, aromatic herbs, garlic, and hearty vegetables simmered in a rich, flavorful broth. Inspired by the classic Italian approach to wellness, this soothing soup is perfect for cold days or when you need a nourishing boost.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Healing and nourishing – Packed with immune-boosting garlic, herbs, and bone broth.
Rich and flavorful – Slow-simmered for deep, comforting flavors.
Easy to make – Simple ingredients with minimal prep.
Perfect for cold weather – A cozy, feel-good meal.
Customizable – Add extra veggies, pasta, or grains for variety.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Soup Base:

Olive oil
Onion (chopped)
Carrots (sliced)
Celery (sliced)
Garlic (minced, lots of it!)
Bone-in chicken thighs (or shredded rotisserie chicken)
Chicken broth or bone broth
Bay leaves
Fresh rosemary (or dried)
Fresh thyme (or dried)
Salt and black pepper
Red pepper flakes (optional, for spice)

Optional Add-Ins:

Small pasta (orzo, ditalini, or pastina)
Cannellini beans (for extra heartiness)
Parmesan cheese (for topping)
Fresh parsley (for garnish)
Lemon juice (for brightness)

Directions

Sauté the aromatics – Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onions, carrots, and celery. Cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
Add garlic and herbs – Stir in minced garlic, rosemary, thyme, and red pepper flakes. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
Simmer the broth – Add chicken thighs, chicken broth, and bay leaves. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let simmer for 30 minutes until chicken is tender.
Shred the chicken – Remove chicken, shred with a fork, and return to the pot.
Add extras (if using) – Stir in pasta, beans, or lemon juice and simmer for another 5-10 minutes.
Serve and enjoy – Ladle into bowls and top with Parmesan and fresh parsley.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4-6
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 40 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes

Variations

Spicy version – Add extra red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce.
Vegetarian option – Use vegetable broth and add extra beans or lentils instead of chicken.
Extra creamy – Stir in a little heavy cream or Parmesan at the end.
Slow cooker method – Cook on low for 6-8 hours, then shred chicken before serving.
Low-carb version – Replace pasta with cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles.

Storage/Reheating

Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezing: Freeze for up to 3 months without pasta (add fresh pasta when reheating).
Reheating: Warm on the stovetop over low heat or microwave in 30-second intervals.

FAQs

Why is it called “penicillin soup”?

This soup is packed with garlic, broth, and herbs that are believed to support the immune system—like a natural remedy!

Can I use boneless chicken?

Yes, but bone-in chicken adds more flavor to the broth.

What’s the best pasta for this soup?

Small pasta like orzo, ditalini, or pastina works best.

Can I make it ahead of time?

Yes! It tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld.

How do I make it extra rich?

Use homemade bone broth or simmer with a Parmesan rind.

Can I use rotisserie chicken?

Absolutely! Shred and add it during the last 10 minutes of cooking.

How do I make it more filling?

Add white beans, chickpeas, or even rice.

What can I serve with this soup?

Crusty bread, garlic toast, or a simple salad pair well.

Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?

Yes! Use 1 teaspoon dried per tablespoon of fresh.

How do I brighten the flavor?

A squeeze of fresh lemon juice before serving adds a nice touch.

Conclusion

Italian Penicillin Soup is a hearty, healing, and deeply flavorful dish that’s perfect for cold days, sick days, or whenever you need a comforting meal. Loaded with nourishing ingredients and classic Italian flavors, this soup is a must-try for any home cook. Make a pot today and feel the warmth with every spoonful!