Italian Penicillin Soup: How to Cure Colds in 5 Steps

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Italian Penicillin Soup is the soul-warming remedy that transforms simple ingredients into liquid gold, offering the same healing comfort as traditional chicken soup but with an irresistible Mediterranean twist.

Picture yourself in a cozy Italian kitchen, where the aroma of garlic, herbs, and simmering broth fills the air, promising warmth and nourishment with every spoonful. This isn’t just soup—it’s a warm hug from nonna herself, designed to cure whatever ails you while delighting your taste buds with authentic Italian flavors.

When the weather turns cold or you’re feeling under the weather, nothing beats a steaming bowl of this therapeutic elixir. The combination of tender chicken, aromatic vegetables, and perfectly cooked pasta creates a symphony of flavors that will transport you straight to the Italian countryside.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Italian Penicillin Soup became my go-to comfort food after a particularly challenging winter when my family seemed to catch every bug going around. I discovered that this recipe not only satisfied our cravings for something hearty and delicious but actually helped us feel better faster.

The magic lies in the perfect balance of healing ingredients—from the immune-boosting garlic and anti-inflammatory herbs to the protein-rich chicken that provides sustained energy.

What makes this recipe truly special is its versatility and forgiving nature. Whether you’re cooking for a sick loved one or simply craving something comforting on a chilly evening, this soup delivers every time.

The best part? It tastes even better the next day, making it perfect for meal prep. Explore more trending comfort recipes here to discover additional soul-warming dishes that your family will love.

Ingredients List

Here’s everything you’ll need to create this nourishing Italian Penicillin Soup:

Category	Ingredient	Amount
Base Ingredients	Extra virgin olive oil	2 tablespoons
	Large onion, diced	1 (about 1 cup)
	Medium carrots, sliced into rounds	3
	Celery stalks, chopped	3
	Garlic cloves, minced	4
	Low-sodium chicken broth	8 cups
	Whole chicken breast, bone-in and skin-on	1 (about 1 pound)
	Bay leaves	2
	Small pasta (ditalini, orzo, or small shells)	1 cup
Seasonings & Aromatics	Dried oregano	1 teaspoon
	Dried thyme	1/2 teaspoon
	Red pepper flakes (optional)	1/4 teaspoon
	Salt and freshly ground black pepper	To taste
	Fresh lemon juice	2 tablespoons
	Fresh parsley, chopped	1/4 cup

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity—each ingredient serves a purpose in creating the perfect healing bowl. Find more quick weeknight recipes here for additional easy meal solutions that fit perfectly into your busy schedule.

Step-by-Step Directions

Follow these detailed instructions to create the perfect Italian Penicillin Soup that will warm your soul and boost your immune system:

Step 1: Prepare the aromatics
Heat extra virgin olive oil in a large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery, cooking for 5-7 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften and the onions become translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 2: Build the broth base
Pour in the chicken broth and add the whole chicken breast, bay leaves, oregano, thyme, and red pepper flakes if using. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to maintain a steady simmer. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 3: Cook the chicken
Allow the soup to simmer for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken breast is fully cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. Remove the chicken breast from the pot and set aside to cool slightly. Once cool enough to handle, remove and discard the skin and bones, then shred the meat into bite-sized pieces.

Step 4: Add the pasta
Return the shredded chicken to the pot and bring the soup back to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente, typically 8-10 minutes for small shapes.

Step 5: Final touches
Remove the bay leaves and stir in the fresh lemon juice and chopped parsley. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or lemon juice as needed. Serve immediately while hot.

Exact Timing to Make Italian Penicillin Soup

Prep time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 45 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Serves: 6-8 people
Active cooking time: 20 minutes (includes stirring and monitoring)
Hands-off simmering time: 25 minutes

Nutritional Information

This Italian Penicillin Soup provides excellent nutritional value while delivering comfort and healing properties. Here’s the comprehensive breakdown per serving (based on 8 servings):

Nutrient	Amount per Serving	% Daily Value
Calories	245	12%
Total Fat	6.2g	8%
Saturated Fat	1.4g	7%
Cholesterol	42mg	14%
Sodium	680mg	30%
Total Carbohydrates	26g	9%
Dietary Fiber	2.8g	10%
Sugars	4.2g	–
Protein	22g	44%
Vitamin A	184% DV	184%
Vitamin C	12% DV	12%
Calcium	45mg	4%
Iron	1.8mg	10%
Potassium	485mg	10%

Key Nutritional Insights: This soup is particularly rich in protein, providing nearly half of your daily needs, while the carrots contribute exceptional vitamin A content. The moderate calorie count makes it perfect for those managing weight while still craving satisfying comfort food.

Healthier Alternatives

Transform your Italian Penicillin Soup to meet various dietary needs while maintaining its delicious, healing properties:

Dietary Need	Original Ingredient	Healthy Alternative	Benefits
Low-Carb/Keto	Small pasta (1 cup)	Zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice	Reduces carbs by 85%, adds extra vegetables
Gluten-Free	Regular pasta	Chickpea, lentil, or rice pasta	Provides additional protein and fiber
Lower Sodium	Regular chicken broth	Low-sodium or homemade broth	Reduces sodium by up to 40%
Plant-Based	Chicken breast	Extra-firm tofu or white beans	Maintains protein while adding fiber
Anti-Inflammatory	Regular olive oil	Cold-pressed extra virgin olive oil + turmeric	Boosts anti-inflammatory compounds
Heart-Healthy	Skin-on chicken	Skinless chicken thighs	Reduces saturated fat while maintaining flavor
Diabetic-Friendly	Regular pasta	Shirataki noodles or spaghetti squash	Significantly lowers glycemic impact

These modifications ensure that everyone can enjoy this comforting soup regardless of their dietary restrictions. Explore more healthy recipe ideas here to discover additional nutritious options that complement your wellness journey.

Serving Suggestions

Accompaniment pairings: Serve your Italian Penicillin Soup with crusty Italian bread or focaccia for dipping, which helps soak up every drop of the flavorful broth. A light side salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a simple lemon vinaigrette provides a fresh contrast to the rich, warming soup.

Presentation and garnishing: Elevate your soup presentation by drizzling a small amount of high-quality extra virgin olive oil on top, sprinkling freshly grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese, and adding a few fresh basil leaves. These finishing touches not only enhance the visual appeal but also intensify the authentic Italian flavors.

Meal timing and portions: This soup works perfectly as a light lunch with bread, or as a starter for a larger Italian dinner. For maximum comfort and healing benefits, serve piping hot in warmed bowls, especially when someone is feeling under the weather.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overcooking the pasta: The biggest mistake when making Italian Penicillin Soup is adding the pasta too early or cooking it beyond al dente. Overcooked pasta becomes mushy and breaks apart, creating an unappetizing texture. Always add pasta during the final 8-10 minutes of cooking and monitor it closely for the perfect bite.

Using the wrong chicken cut: Avoid using boneless, skinless chicken breasts as they tend to become dry and stringy when simmered for extended periods. Bone-in, skin-on chicken breast provides superior flavor and stays moist throughout the cooking process. The bones also contribute additional nutrients and richness to the broth.

Skipping the fresh elements: Many home cooks forget to add the fresh lemon juice and parsley at the end, which are crucial for brightening the entire dish. These final additions transform a good soup into an exceptional one by adding freshness and balancing the rich, savory flavors.

Storing Tips

Refrigeration guidelines: Store leftover Italian Penicillin Soup in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors actually improve overnight as the ingredients have time to meld together. When reheating, add a splash of chicken broth or water if the soup has thickened, as the pasta will continue to absorb liquid during storage.

Freezing considerations: For optimal texture, freeze the soup without the pasta for up to 3 months in freezer-safe containers, leaving about an inch of headspace for expansion. When ready to serve, thaw overnight in the refrigerator, reheat to a simmer, and add freshly cooked pasta. This prevents the pasta from becoming mushy after freezing.

Reheating best practices: Reheat the soup gently over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally to ensure even warming. Avoid boiling vigorously as this can break down the vegetables and make the chicken tough. Taste and adjust seasoning after reheating, as flavors can become muted during storage, and add fresh herbs to restore brightness.

FAQs

Can I make Italian Penicillin Soup in a slow cooker?

Yes, you can adapt this Italian Penicillin Soup recipe for a slow cooker. Add all ingredients except pasta, lemon juice, and parsley to the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours. Remove and shred the chicken, then return it to the pot. Cook pasta separately and add to individual bowls when serving, then ladle the hot soup over top to prevent overcooking.

How can I make Italian Penicillin Soup thicker or thinner?

To thicken your Italian Penicillin Soup, simmer uncovered for an additional 10-15 minutes to allow natural evaporation, or mash some of the cooked vegetables against the side of the pot. For a thinner consistency, gradually add warm chicken broth or water until you reach your desired texture. Remember that the pasta will continue absorbing liquid, naturally thickening the soup over time.

What’s the best pasta shape for Italian Penicillin Soup?

Small pasta shapes work best in Italian Penicillin Soup because they’re easier to eat with a spoon and distribute evenly throughout the bowl. Ditalini, small shells, orzo, or small elbow macaroni are ideal choices. Avoid long pasta like spaghetti or large shapes like rigatoni, as they can make the soup difficult to eat and may overpower the other ingredients.

Can I substitute chicken thighs in my Italian Penicillin Soup recipe?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs actually work wonderfully in Italian Penicillin Soup and often provide more flavor due to their higher fat content. Use 1.5 pounds of bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs and increase the cooking time to 35-40 minutes to ensure they’re fully cooked. The dark meat will create an even richer, more flavorful broth that’s perfect for this comforting soup.