There’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of homemade soup when you’re feeling a little under the weather or just need a cosy pick-me-up. This Italian penicillin soup recipe has earned a reputation as a nourishing comfort food that’s packed with immune-boosting ingredients, making it the perfect cure for chilly days, mild colds, or any time you need a little TLC. Like a Mediterranean twist on the classic chicken soup, it blends the flavours of garlic, fresh herbs, and tender chicken in a savoury broth. The aroma alone feels healing, but it’s the soothing, rich taste that makes this dish a beloved staple.
In Italy, this soup is affectionately referred to as “Italian penicillin” because of its comforting and restorative qualities. It’s a recipe that’s not only delicious but also easy to prepare, making it ideal for anyone who wants a satisfying and healthy meal with minimal fuss. Dive in and discover why this Italian classic is the ultimate feel-good soup.
Why You’ll Love Italian Penicillin Soup Recipe
- Flavorful and Nourishing: With its rich broth, herbs, and tender chicken, this soup brings cosy, wholesome flavours that everyone loves.
- Simple and Customizable: You can adapt it based on what’s in your pantry and make it your own with extra veggies or different herbs.
- Immune-Boosting Ingredients: Packed with garlic and rosemary, this soup supports the immune system and feels like a natural remedy.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a big batch and enjoy it over a few days—this soup reheats well and freezes beautifully.
Italian Penicillin Soup Recipe Card
A flavorful, immune-boosting Italian soup loaded with garlic, herbs, and tender chicken. Perfect for cosy nights and fighting off colds.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Servings: 6
- Calories: ~250 per serving
Italian Penicillin Soup Recipe Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 large carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 cup diced tomatoes
- 8 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups shredded cooked chicken
- 1 sprig of fresh rosemary
- 1 sprig of fresh thyme
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup small pasta (like ditalini or orzo)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Grated Parmesan cheese (optional for garnish)
Italian Penicillin Soup Recipe Instructions:
- Sauté Aromatics: Warm the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onions, garlic, carrots, and celery, and cook for approximately 5 minutes, or until the vegetables are softened.
- Add Broth and Tomatoes: Stir in the diced tomatoes and chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
- Simmer with Herbs: Add the shredded chicken, rosemary, thyme, and bay leaf. Season with salt and pepper, then let simmer for about 20-30 minutes to blend the flavours.
- Cook Pasta: Add the pasta and cook until it reaches your preferred tenderness, usually 8-10 minutes.
- Serve and Garnish: Remove the herb sprigs and bay leaf. Serve hot with a sprinkle of fresh parsley and optional Parmesan cheese on top.
Key Ingredients and Substitutions
- Chicken Broth: Use a high-quality chicken broth as it’s the heart of this soup. For a vegetarian version, use vegetable broth and add chickpeas or cannellini beans for protein.
- Garlic and Herbs: Garlic, rosemary, and thyme are essential for the Italian flavour. Dried herbs can work in a pinch, but fresh herbs elevate the taste.
- Pasta: Small pasta like ditalini or orzo is traditional and adds heartiness. You can substitute with gluten-free pasta or omit the pasta altogether.
- Chicken: Shredded cooked chicken breast works best. Leftover rotisserie chicken can be a great time-saver, or replace it with white beans for a vegetarian twist.
How to Make Italian Penicillin Soup Recipe (Step-by-Step)
- Start with Sautéing: Begin by sautéing the onions, garlic, carrots, and celery in olive oil. This base layer of aromatics creates the soup’s core flavour. Sauté until vegetables are just softened but not browned.
- Add Broth and Tomatoes: Once your aromatics are ready, pour in the chicken broth and add diced tomatoes. The broth brings depth, and the tomatoes add acidity and brightness.
- Infuse with Herbs and Chicken: Add the rosemary, thyme, bay leaf, and shredded chicken. These herbs give the soup its unique Italian flavour and offer immune-boosting benefits. Let the soup simmer, allowing the flavours to develop.
- Cook the Pasta: Once the soup is flavorful, add your choice of pasta. Cooking the pasta in the broth thickens the soup and makes it even more filling.
- Serve and Enjoy: After removing the bay leaf and herb sprigs, ladle the soup into bowls. Garnish with fresh parsley and Parmesan for added flavour.
Expert Tips for Success
- Season Gradually: Start with a little salt, then add more if needed after simmering. Taste testing is key, as flavours intensify over time.
- Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Add pasta near the end of cooking to prevent it from becoming mushy. Alternatively, cook it separately and add it when serving.
- Use Quality Broth: A good-quality broth can make a big difference in flavour. Consider making your own or using a low-sodium version to control salt levels.
Variations and Customizations
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute the chicken with white beans or chickpeas and use vegetable broth for a hearty, plant-based version.
- Add a Kick: For a bit of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a diced chilli pepper.
- Leafy Greens: Stir in a handful of spinach or kale during the last few minutes of cooking for an extra boost of vitamins and minerals.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta or skip it altogether. Zucchini noodles are another fun addition for a lower-carb option.
Serving Suggestions
This soup is hearty enough to enjoy as a meal, but here are some ideas for a full Italian-inspired spread:
- Crusty Bread: A slice of Crusty Italian Bread or garlic bread pairs perfectly, ideal for dipping.
- Side Salad: A light, simple salad with greens, tomatoes, and a balsamic vinaigrette balances the richness of the soup.
- Roasted Vegetables: Serve with roasted vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus to add colour and nutrients.
Conclusion
With its hearty blend of chicken, herbs, vegetables, and pasta, this Italian penicillin soup recipe is a must-try for anyone seeking comfort and flavour in a bowl. It’s ideal for chilly days, cosy nights, or whenever you need a nourishing meal that warms from the inside out.
FAQs
Why do they call it Italian penicillin?
The name “Italian penicillin” reflects the soup’s reputation as a comfort food that’s believed to have immune-boosting properties, similar to how chicken soup is often viewed as “Jewish penicillin.” The Italian twist adds Mediterranean ingredients like garlic, olive oil, and rosemary, all known for their health benefits and rich flavours.
What is the most famous soup in Italy?
While Italian penicillin soup is beloved for its comforting and restorative qualities, the most famous Italian soup is likely minestrone. Minestrone is a vegetable-packed soup often made with beans, pasta, or rice, and it varies greatly by region and season. This classic embodies the hearty and wholesome nature of Italian cooking.
Can I make this soup vegetarian?
Yes, it’s easy to make vegetarian. Substitute the chicken broth with vegetable broth and use white beans or chickpeas in place of the chicken for a protein boost.