When you’re feeling under the weather or simply need a cozy, nourishing meal, there’s nothing better than a steaming bowl of Italian Penicillin Soup. Inspired by the classic Jewish Penicillin (chicken soup) but infused with rich Italian flavors, this dish combines tender chicken, garlic, tomatoes, herbs, and Parmesan in a deeply satisfying broth.
This soup is not only delicious but also incredibly nourishing, packed with immune-boosting ingredients like garlic, fresh herbs, bone broth, and olive oil. Whether you’re battling a cold, recovering from the flu, or just craving a hearty, wholesome dish, this Italian-inspired version of “penicillin” soup is the perfect healing remedy.
In this article, we’ll cover:
✅ The best ingredients (measured in grams for accuracy)
✅ Step-by-step instructions for a rich, flavorful broth
✅ Nutritional benefits of this dish
✅ Pro tips to enhance the depth of flavor
✅ Fun variations to customize your soup
✅ A Pinterest-friendly description for social media sharing
Let’s dive in! 🍲🇮🇹
Why You’ll Love This Italian Penicillin Soup
✔️ Rich & Comforting – Deep, warm flavors with classic Italian ingredients.
✔️ Healing & Immune-Boosting – Packed with garlic, chicken, and fresh herbs.
✔️ Easy to Make in One Pot – A simple, fuss-free recipe.
✔️ Perfect for Cold Weather – Keeps you warm, satisfied, and healthy.
✔️ Customizable – Adjust ingredients to your liking!
Ingredients (Measured in Grams for Accuracy)
For the Broth Base:
- Olive oil – 30g (2 tablespoons)
- Garlic, minced – 15g (3 cloves)
- Onion, chopped – 100g (1 medium onion)
- Carrots, diced – 100g (2 medium carrots)
- Celery, diced – 80g (2 stalks)
- Crushed tomatoes – 400g (1 can)
- Chicken thighs or bone-in chicken breast – 600g (about 3 pieces)
- Chicken broth or bone broth – 1.2kg (5 cups)
- Bay leaves – 2 leaves
- Fresh rosemary – 5g (1 teaspoon, chopped)
- Fresh thyme – 5g (1 teaspoon, chopped)
- Dried oregano – 3g (½ teaspoon)
- Salt & black pepper – to taste
For the Soup Ingredients:
- Small pasta (orzo, ditalini, or acini di pepe) – 120g (¾ cup)
- Parmesan cheese, grated – 50g (½ cup)
- Lemon juice – 15g (1 tablespoon)
- Fresh parsley, chopped – 10g (2 tablespoons)
- Crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for heat) – 2g (¼ teaspoon)
For Serving:
- Crusty Italian bread – for dipping
- Extra Parmesan cheese – for topping
- Extra virgin olive oil – for drizzling
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Sauté the Aromatics
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the onions, carrots, and celery, and sauté for 4-5 minutes until softened.
- Stir in the garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
2. Build the Broth
- Pour in the crushed tomatoes and cook for 2 minutes to deepen the flavor.
- Add the chicken broth, bay leaves, rosemary, thyme, oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Nestle the chicken thighs or bone-in breast into the broth.
3. Simmer for Maximum Flavor
- Bring the soup to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 30 minutes until the chicken is tender.
- Remove the chicken, shred it with a fork, and discard any bones.
4. Cook the Pasta
- Add the small pasta to the soup and cook until al dente (about 7-8 minutes).
- Return the shredded chicken to the pot and stir well.
5. Add the Finishing Touches
- Stir in Parmesan cheese, lemon juice, and fresh parsley for brightness.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt, pepper, or crushed red pepper flakes for spice.
6. Serve & Enjoy
- Ladle into bowls and drizzle with extra virgin olive oil.
- Top with extra Parmesan cheese and serve with crusty Italian bread for dipping.
Nutritional Benefits (Per Serving)
This Italian Penicillin Soup is not only delicious but also loaded with nutrients that boost immunity:
- Calories: ~350 kcal
- Protein: 28g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fats: 12g
- Vitamins A, C, & K – Support immune function and overall health.
- Collagen & Amino Acids – From chicken bone broth, helping with gut health and healing.
- Antioxidants – From garlic, tomatoes, and fresh herbs.
Pro Tips for the Best Italian Penicillin Soup
🔥 Use bone-in chicken – It releases collagen and makes the broth extra rich.
🔥 Simmer for at least 30 minutes – The longer it cooks, the deeper the flavor.
🔥 Don’t overcook the pasta – Cook until just al dente, so it stays firm.
🔥 Add lemon juice at the end – It brightens the soup and enhances the flavors.
🔥 Customize with greens – Add kale, spinach, or escarole for extra nutrients.
Fun Variations to Try
🍅 Creamy Italian Penicillin Soup – Stir in heavy cream or mascarpone for a richer version.
🌿 Herby Tuscan Style – Add sun-dried tomatoes, white beans, and kale for a Tuscan twist.
🦴 Extra Healing Bone Broth – Simmer the broth for 2-3 hours with extra bones for maximum nutrients.
🌶️ Spicy Arrabbiata Style – Add extra chili flakes and Italian sausage for a spicy kick.
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