Description
Healing and flavorful, this Italian Penicillin Soup is a nourishing chicken soup packed with garlic, herbs, and slow-simmered goodness. Perfect for boosting immunity and comforting the soul in any season
Ingredients
- 1 whole chicken (3–4 lbs) or 2 lbs bone-in chicken thighs
- 10 cups water or low-sodium chicken broth
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 large onion, diced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 large carrots, chopped
- 3 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 large tomato, diced (or ½ cup canned diced tomatoes)
- 1 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- ½ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 Parmesan rind (optional)
- ½ cup small pasta (orzo, ditalini, or pastina)
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tbsp fresh basil, chopped
- Juice of ½ a lemon
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese for serving
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
- Rinse and pat dry the chicken.
- Heat olive oil in a large stockpot over medium heat.
- Sear the chicken for 3-4 minutes on each side.
Step 2: Build the Soup Base
4. Add onion, garlic, carrots, celery, and tomato. Sauté for 5 minutes.
5. Pour in water or broth, ensuring the chicken is submerged.
6. Add salt, pepper, oregano, thyme, red pepper flakes (if using), bay leaf, and Parmesan rind.
Step 3: Simmer for Maximum Flavor
7. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours.
8. Remove chicken, let cool slightly, then shred the meat. Discard skin and bones.
9. Remove bay leaf and Parmesan rind from the pot.
Step 4: Add Pasta and Herbs
10. Return shredded chicken to the pot.
11. Add pasta and cook for 10 minutes until al dente.
12. Stir in fresh parsley, basil, and lemon juice.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
13. Ladle into bowls and garnish with grated Parmesan cheese.
14. Serve warm with crusty Italian bread.
Notes
- Make It Gluten-Free: Swap pasta for rice or gluten-free noodles.
- Add More Veggies: Try zucchini, spinach, or kale.
- Spicy Kick: Increase red pepper flakes or add cayenne.
- Rich and Creamy: Stir in a splash of heavy cream.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 hours
- Category: soup
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: italian
Keywords: Italian penicillin soup, chicken soup recipe, immune-boosting soup, Italian comfort food, homemade chicken soup