Italian Penicillin Soup Recipe: 3 Powerful Comforts

There are days when life feels a little too much—whether it’s the sniffles making their way through your house, the stress of a long workday, or simply the craving for something cozy. That’s when I reach for my Italian Penicillin Soup Recipe. Think of it as chicken soup’s elegant Italian cousin: hearty, healing, and filled with layers of flavor that hug you from the inside out.

This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, chilly weekends, or whenever your soul says, “I need a hug, but make it edible.” Trust me, one spoonful and you’ll understand why Italians swear by this soothing bowl of goodness.

Why You’ll Love This Italian Penicillin Soup Recipe

• Healing Comfort: Just like traditional chicken soup, this dish has that magic quality that makes you feel better almost instantly.
• Bright & Fresh: The addition of lemon juice and parsley keeps it light and zesty.
• Simple but Flavorful: With just a few pantry staples, you’ll create a meal that tastes like it simmered all day.
• Customizable: Gluten-free? Vegetarian? Dairy-free? No problem—I’ve got you covered with substitutions.

This is more than soup. It’s comfort, tradition, and flavor wrapped up in one pot.

Ingredients You’ll Need

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)
• 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

Substitutions:

• Gluten-free: Use rice instead of pasta, or skip the starch entirely.
• Vegetarian: Swap chicken for white beans and stick with vegetable broth.
• Dairy-free: Leave out the cheese or try nutritional yeast for that “cheesy” flavor.

How to Make Italian Penicillin Soup Recipe

1. Build the Aromatic Base

Warm olive oil in a heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat. Add onion, carrots, and celery—the classic trifecta of soup-making. Cook for 5–7 minutes until softened. Stir in garlic and cook just until fragrant (about 1 minute). Don’t let it burn—nobody likes bitter garlic!

2. Add Broth and Chicken

Pour in broth and tuck the chicken breast into the pot. Toss in bay leaves, oregano, thyme, and red pepper flakes (if you like a little kick). Bring to a boil, then lower to a gentle simmer. Let the magic happen slowly—patience is key.

3. Simmer Until Tender

Cover the pot partially and simmer for 25–30 minutes. By now, your house should smell like the world’s coziest Italian trattoria. Remove chicken and let it cool slightly.

4. Shred and Season

Discard the skin and bones, then shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces. Season broth with salt and pepper—add little by little, tasting as you go.

5. Cook the Pasta

Return shredded chicken to the pot. Bring soup to a gentle boil, add pasta, and cook until al dente. This step thickens the broth slightly, making it extra comforting.

6. Finish with Fresh Elements

Remove bay leaves. Stir in lemon juice and parsley. Taste, adjust seasoning, and get ready to ladle love into bowls.

Pro Cooking Tips

• For Extra Depth: Sauté a tablespoon of tomato paste with your veggies in step one—it adds a subtle richness.
• Double the Batch: This soup freezes beautifully (minus the pasta). Cook pasta fresh when reheating.
• For Kids: Skip the red pepper flakes and serve with extra cheese on top—works like a charm for picky eaters.

A Little Story from My Kitchen

The first time I made this Italian Penicillin Soup Recipe, it was purely for survival—I had a cold, two restless kids, and zero energy. Somehow, standing over the simmering pot felt therapeutic. When I finally sat down with a bowl, my kids (surprisingly!) gobbled it up and asked for seconds. Since then, it’s been our family’s go-to comfort soup, no illness required.

FAQs About Italian Penicillin Soup Recipe

Bring the Comfort Home

This Italian Penicillin Soup Recipe isn’t just about feeding your body—it’s about feeding your soul. Whether you’re under the weather or simply craving comfort in a bowl, this recipe has your back. Warm, nourishing, and easy to customize, it’s the kind of dish that makes you feel cared for with every bite.

So, grab your pot, pour yourself a glass of wine (optional, but recommended), and let the magic of Italian penicillin work its wonders in your kitchen tonight.

More Cozy Recipes to Try Next

If this Italian Penicillin Soup Recipe warmed your heart, I’ve got more comforting bowls and hearty meals you’ll love. Here are a few reader favorites worth bookmarking:

• Soothe your soul with another broth-based classic like this Chicken Poblano Soup—a flavorful twist with just the right amount of kick.
• For a creamy and rich option, my Creamy Tuscan Ravioli Soup is perfect for pasta lovers who crave something indulgent.
• Looking for a hearty one-pot wonder? This Autumn Harvest Beef Stew is as cozy as it gets on a chilly evening.
• And if you’re craving a lighter but still satisfying bowl, try the Chicken Pot Pie Soup—all the comfort of pot pie, no crust required.

Each of these recipes pairs beautifully with the same crusty bread you’ll want alongside your Italian soup. Happy cooking.

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