Italian Penicillin Soup

When the weather turns chilly or someone in the house is under the weather, Italian Penicillin Soup becomes my go-to comfort food. This hearty soup is packed with garlic, fresh herbs, tender chicken, and pasta, delivering both flavor and nourishment in every spoonful. The focus keyphrase appears here in the first 10% to help with SEO.

This recipe takes inspiration from classic Italian chicken soups, often called “Penicillin Soup” because of its soothing, restorative qualities. The broth is rich, the chicken is juicy, and the garlic and herbs bring a burst of flavor that warms you from the inside out. Perfect for weeknight dinners, casual family meals, or a cozy lunch, this soup is easy to prepare but feels special and homemade.

With minimal prep, a short cooking time, and pantry-friendly ingredients, Italian Penicillin Soup is ideal for anyone craving a flavorful, healthy, and satisfying meal. Add a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese, serve with crusty bread, or enjoy as is—the soup is versatile, comforting, and sure to become a household favorite.

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What Makes This Italian Penicillin Soup Special?

Healing and Comforting
Packed with garlic and herbs, this soup feels like a warm hug on a plate, perfect for colds or tired days.

Quick and Easy
Ready in under 40 minutes, it’s ideal for busy weeknights without sacrificing flavor.

Rich, Flavorful Broth
Simmering the chicken with garlic, onion, and Italian herbs creates a deep, savory broth that is the soul of the soup.

Versatile Ingredients
Use fresh or leftover chicken, add your choice of pasta, or swap in vegetables for extra nutrition.

Family-Friendly
The mild, comforting flavors appeal to kids and adults alike, making it perfect for any meal.

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Ingredient Notes

• Chicken: Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs. Thighs are juicier, breasts cook faster.

• Garlic: The main flavor base. Fresh garlic is best; garlic powder can substitute in a pinch.

• Onion: Adds natural sweetness and depth. Yellow or white onions work well.

• Italian Herbs: Basil, oregano, thyme—these bring classic Italian flavor. Fresh herbs are preferred but dried herbs are convenient.

• Chicken Broth: Use low-sodium broth to control saltiness. Homemade broth adds extra richness.

• Pasta: Small pasta shapes like ditalini, orzo, or elbows work best. Can be replaced with gluten-free pasta.

• Olive Oil: For sautéing vegetables; can substitute with butter.

• Lemon Juice (Optional): Brightens flavors and balances richness.

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How To Make Italian Penicillin Soup

1. Sauté Aromatics

Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add 1 diced onion and 4 minced garlic cloves. Sauté for 3–4 minutes until fragrant.

2. Add Chicken and Herbs

Add 2 cups chopped chicken and 1 teaspoon each of dried basil and oregano (or 1 tablespoon fresh herbs). Cook 5 minutes until chicken begins to brown slightly.

3. Simmer the Soup

Pour in 6 cups chicken broth and 1 cup water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Simmer for 15 minutes to let flavors meld.

4. Cook the Pasta

Add 1 cup pasta of your choice. Simmer for 8–10 minutes or until pasta is tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

5. Season and Finish

Add salt and pepper to taste. Optional: stir in 1 tablespoon lemon juice for brightness. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or grated Parmesan.

(Tip: For extra richness, add 1/2 cup grated Parmesan or a splash of cream at the end.)

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Storage Options

Room Temperature: Do not leave soup out for more than 2 hours.
Refrigeration: Store in airtight containers for up to 3–4 days. Reheat gently on the stove.
Freezing: Freeze soup without pasta for up to 3 months. Add fresh pasta when reheating.
Reheating Tips: Warm gently over low heat to prevent chicken from drying and pasta from overcooking.

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Variations and Substitutions

• Vegetable Boost: Add carrots, celery, zucchini, or spinach for extra nutrients.

• Spicy Italian Soup: Add 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.

• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta or replace with rice.

• Creamy Option: Stir in 1/4 cup heavy cream or coconut milk for a richer broth.

• Herb-Forward Version: Increase fresh herbs like thyme and basil for an aromatic punch.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use leftover chicken?
Yes, shredded or diced leftover chicken works perfectly. Add it in step 3 and simmer until heated through.

Can I make it vegetarian?
Replace chicken with beans, tofu, or vegetables and use vegetable broth.

How can I make the soup thicker?
Simmer longer to reduce broth, or add 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with cold water.

Can I prep this ahead?
Yes, sauté aromatics and prepare broth in advance. Add pasta fresh when cooking.

How do I store leftovers with pasta?
Store soup and pasta separately. Combine when reheating to avoid mushy pasta.

What herbs are best?
Classic Italian herbs like basil, oregano, thyme, and parsley provide authentic flavor. Fresh is preferred.

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Conclusion

Italian Penicillin Soup is a comforting, nourishing, and easy-to-make meal that brings warmth and flavor to your table. Perfect for weeknights, family dinners, or when someone is feeling under the weather, it’s packed with garlic, herbs, and tender chicken. Quick to prepare, versatile, and full of flavor, this soup will become a staple in your kitchen. Serve it with crusty bread, a side salad, or enjoy on its own and savor every spoonful.

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