Italian Penicillin Soup (Hearty Italian Chicken Soup)

Italian Penicillin Soup is a warm, comforting dish packed with nourishing ingredients that help to boost the immune system and soothe the soul. This rich and flavorful chicken soup is inspired by the traditional Jewish “penicillin” (chicken soup), but with an Italian twist, featuring aromatic herbs, garlic, tomatoes, and a depth of flavor that makes it a go-to remedy for cold nights, flu season, or simply when you need a hearty, delicious meal.

Unlike standard chicken soup, this version includes classic Italian ingredients like oregano, basil, crushed tomatoes, and Parmesan cheese to elevate the taste. The slow simmering process allows the flavors to meld together beautifully, creating a deeply satisfying broth infused with the essence of garlic, onions, and fresh herbs. The addition of vegetables like carrots, celery, and spinach not only enhances the flavor but also provides a nutritional boost.

Whether you’re making this soup to fight off a cold, recover from illness, or simply enjoy a comforting homemade meal, Italian Penicillin Soup is a must-try. It’s packed with protein, vitamins, and minerals while being light enough to be easily digestible. Serve it with crusty bread, over pasta, or on its own for a truly healing and delicious experience.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Immune-Boosting Properties: Garlic, onions, chicken, and vegetables provide vitamins and antioxidants to help fight off illness.
• Comforting and Flavorful: A rich, aromatic broth infused with Italian herbs and spices makes this soup incredibly satisfying.
• Easy to Make: Simple ingredients come together in one pot for a fuss-free meal.
• Great for Meal Prep: Make a big batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week or freeze for future use.
• Customizable: Add pasta, beans, or additional vegetables to tailor the soup to your preferences.
• Perfect for All Seasons: While great for cold and flu season, it’s also a light and nutritious meal any time of the year.

Preparation Time and Servings

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 50 minutes
• Yield: 6-8 servings
• Serving Size: 1 bowl (about 1.5 cups)

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 320
• Carbohydrates: 22g
• Protein: 35g
• Fat: 9g
• Fiber: 4g
• Sugar: 7g

Ingredients

For the Soup Base:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 medium carrots, sliced
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 1 red bell pepper, diced (optional)
• 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• ½ teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 (14.5-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
• 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 cup water (if needed to adjust consistency)
• 1 bay leaf

For the Chicken and Additions:

• 2 large bone-in, skinless chicken breasts (or 4 bone-in, skinless chicken thighs)
• 1 Parmesan rind (adds rich umami flavor, optional)
• 1 (15-ounce) can cannellini beans, drained and rinsed (optional)
• 2 cups fresh spinach or kale, chopped
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice (for brightness)

Garnish and Serving:

• ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
• ¼ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• Crusty Italian bread or toasted garlic bread for serving

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the diced onions, carrots, and celery, and cook for about 5 minutes until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and bell pepper, and cook for another 2 minutes until fragrant.

Step 2: Add Seasonings and Tomatoes

Sprinkle in the salt, black pepper, red pepper flakes, oregano, basil, and thyme. Stir well to coat the vegetables with the herbs. Pour in the crushed tomatoes and stir to combine, allowing the flavors to develop for 2-3 minutes.

Step 3: Add the Chicken and Broth

Place the chicken breasts (or thighs) into the pot, nestling them into the tomato mixture. Pour in the chicken broth and add the bay leaf. If using a Parmesan rind, drop it into the pot for extra richness. Bring the soup to a gentle boil.

Step 4: Simmer the Soup

Reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Let the soup simmer for 1 hour, stirring occasionally. The chicken should become tender and easily shreddable.

Step 5: Shred the Chicken

Remove the chicken from the pot and place it on a cutting board. Use two forks to shred it into bite-sized pieces, then return the shredded chicken to the pot. Discard any bones if using bone-in chicken.

Step 6: Add Final Ingredients

Stir in the drained cannellini beans (if using) and chopped spinach or kale. Cook for another 10 minutes until the greens are wilted and the beans are warmed through.

Step 7: Add Lemon Juice and Adjust Seasoning

Stir in the lemon juice to brighten the flavors. Taste the soup and adjust seasoning as needed, adding more salt, pepper, or herbs.

Step 8: Serve and Garnish

Ladle the hot soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley and grated Parmesan cheese. Serve with crusty bread or over pasta for an extra hearty meal.

Ingredient Background

Chicken

Bone-in chicken adds extra richness to the broth while staying tender and juicy during cooking. If using boneless chicken, reduce cooking time slightly to prevent dryness.

Crushed Tomatoes

This gives the soup a tangy, slightly sweet base that complements the herbs and garlic.

Parmesan Rind

Adding a Parmesan rind to simmering soups is a classic Italian trick that enhances the umami depth and richness of the broth.

Cannellini Beans

For added protein and fiber, beans are a great addition, making the soup even heartier.

Technique Tips

• For a creamier broth, blend a portion of the soup before adding the shredded chicken back in.
• If you prefer a thinner broth, add extra chicken broth or water.
• For extra richness, drizzle in a little extra virgin olive oil before serving.

Alternative Presentation Ideas

• Serve Over Pasta: Ladle the soup over cooked ditalini or orzo.
• Rustic Stew: Reduce the broth slightly for a thicker, stew-like consistency.
• Spicy Kick: Add extra red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños.

Additional Tips for Success

• Simmer the soup low and slow for deeper, richer flavors.
• Use homemade chicken broth for the best taste.
• Don’t skip the lemon juice! It brightens up the flavors and balances the richness.

Recipe Variations

• Low-Carb Version: Skip the beans and pasta, and add more greens.
• Dairy-Free: Omit the Parmesan and use nutritional yeast for a similar umami boost.
• Vegetarian Version: Use vegetable broth and replace chicken with chickpeas.

Freezing and Storage

• To Store: Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• To Freeze: Freeze for up to 3 months in portioned containers.
• To Reheat: Warm on the stovetop over medium heat until hot.

Serving Suggestions for Events

• Family Dinner: Pair with a fresh Italian salad and bread.
• Sick Day Remedy: Serve with herbal tea and honey for extra comfort.
• Dinner Party Starter: Serve in small bowls before a pasta dish.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use rotisserie chicken? Yes, just add shredded rotisserie chicken in the last 15 minutes.
2. What’s the best pasta to serve with this soup? Small pasta shapes like ditalini, orzo, or farfalle work best.
3. Can I make this in a slow cooker? Yes! Cook on low for 6-8 hours, then shred the chicken.

Conclusion

Italian Penicillin Soup is a flavorful, nourishing dish perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re fighting off a cold, craving a comforting meal, or looking for an easy one-pot dish, this soup delivers on all fronts. Packed with immune-boosting ingredients like garlic, onions, and nutrient-rich greens, it’s a meal that warms both the body and soul. The slow-simmered broth develops deep, rich flavors, making each spoonful satisfying and restorative. Serve it with crusty bread, over pasta, or as a stand-alone dish for a hearty and wholesome experience. Try it today and enjoy the ultimate Italian-style comfort food, made with love!

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