Name: Italian Penicillin Soup
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 2 tbsp olive oil (For sautéing); 1 small onion, finely chopped; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced; 2 stalks celery, chopped; 1 lb chicken breasts or thighs (boneless & skinless); 8 cups chicken broth (homemade or low-sodium); 1 cup small pasta (ditalini, orzo, or acini di pepe) (To soak up the broth); ½ tsp dried oregano; ½ tsp dried thyme; 1 whole zest and juice of 1 lemon (Add at the end for brightness); to taste salt and pepper; 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley or basil (for garnish); to taste freshly grated Parmesan (Optional but highly encouraged)

First, let me just say thank you — thank you for being here, for showing up hungry for something nourishing, and for trusting me with a recipe that’s more than just food. It’s comfort. It’s tradition. It’s a little hug in a bowl. 💛

If you’ve been under the weather, or simply craving a cozy, soul-satisfying meal that brings warmth from the inside out, this is it. Italian Penicillin Soup is what I reach for on chilly days, sick days, or days when I just want to feel taken care of — even if I’m the one doing the cooking.

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🥄 What Is Italian Penicillin Soup?

Italian Penicillin Soup is Italy’s answer to the classic chicken soup — but with a twist of lemon, a touch of garlic, and those cozy Mediterranean herbs we all adore. Think chicken noodle soup... but better. MUCH better.

Originally inspired by traditional Italian peasant food and Nonna’s wisdom, this soup is loaded with:

Tender chicken
Garlic and onions
Carrots, celery
Fresh herbs
A bright pop of lemon
Little pasta pearls that soak up all the goodness

💛 Why You’ll Fall in Love With This Soup

It's healing: Packed with immune-boosting ingredients (garlic, lemon, chicken broth).
It’s comforting: The warm, savory aroma feels like being wrapped in a blanket.
It’s easy: One pot, no fancy tricks, just real food.
It’s versatile: Add what you love, leave out what you don’t.
It’s anything but boring!! The citrus-herb combo is a total flavor bomb.

🌿 What Does It Taste Like?

Close your eyes and imagine:

A savory, garlicky broth that’s brightened with a squeeze of lemon
Meltingly tender chicken pieces
Herbs that feel like a garden in your spoon
That little sharp kick of Parmesan melting in, if you're into that...

The taste? Comforting, clean, rich — with just the right amount of zing. Like if sunshine and a warm hug had a baby.

🌟 Benefits of Italian Penicillin Soup

Immune support: thanks to garlic, lemon, and fresh herbs
Hydrating: broth-based and full of fluids
Soothing: gentle on sore throats and tender tummies
Protein-rich: from chicken and Parmesan
Heartwarming: in all the best ways 🥰

🛒 Ingredients

Serves 4–6

2 tbsp olive oil
1 small onion, finely chopped
4 garlic cloves, minced
2 carrots, peeled and sliced
2 celery stalks, chopped
1 lb chicken breasts or thighs (boneless & skinless)
8 cups chicken broth (homemade or low-sodium)
1 cup small pasta (ditalini, orzo, or acini di pepe)
½ tsp dried oregano
½ tsp dried thyme
Zest and juice of 1 lemon
Salt and pepper, to taste
2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley or basil (for garnish)
Freshly grated Parmesan (optional but highly encouraged)

🧰 Tools You’ll Need

Large soup pot or Dutch oven
Sharp knife and cutting board
Wooden spoon
Ladle
Citrus zester (or the fine side of a grater)

🔁 Add-Ins & Substitutions

Veggies: Add spinach, kale, or zucchini at the end for extra greens.
Pasta-free? Skip it and go for white beans or quinoa.
Low-carb? Use cauliflower rice or shirataki noodles.
Vegan version: Swap chicken for chickpeas and use veggie broth.
Spice it up: A pinch of chili flakes = next-level cozy.

👩‍🍳 How to Make Italian Penicillin Soup

Step 1:
Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté for 3–4 minutes until translucent.

Step 2:
Add garlic, carrots, and celery. Cook another 4–5 minutes until veggies begin to soften.

Step 3:
Nestle in the chicken pieces. Pour in the broth. Add oregano and thyme. Bring to a boil.

Step 4:
Lower heat and simmer for 20–25 minutes, until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.

Step 5:
Remove chicken, shred it with two forks, and return it to the pot.

Step 6:
Stir in the pasta and lemon juice + zest. Cook for another 8–10 minutes, or until the pasta is al dente.

Step 7:
Taste, season with salt and pepper. Sprinkle with fresh herbs and a generous dusting of Parmesan.

Step 8:
Serve hot, and feel your soul sigh with relief. 🥣

🍞 What to Serve With This Soup

Warm, crusty bread (for dipping, obviously!)
A simple arugula salad with shaved Parmesan
Roasted garlic toast
Grilled cheese panini (trust me)

🧠 Tips for the Best Italian Penicillin Soup

Use good-quality broth – it’s the backbone of flavor.
Add lemon at the end – it keeps the soup bright, not bitter.
Make it ahead – it tastes even better the next day.
Shred the chicken with a fork or mixer for perfect texture.

🧊 Storage Instructions

Fridge: Store in airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezer: Freeze (without pasta) for up to 3 months. Add fresh pasta when reheating.
Reheat: Gently warm on the stovetop. Add a splash of broth or water if it’s too thick.

ℹ️ General Information

Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 35 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Servings: 4–6
Diet: Gluten-friendly (with GF pasta), dairy-optional

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this in a slow cooker?
Yes! Just add everything except the pasta and lemon. Cook on low for 6–7 hours. Add pasta and lemon in the last 30 minutes.

What pasta works best?
Ditalini, orzo, or acini di pepe — small pasta shapes soak up the broth beautifully without overpowering the bowl.

Can I use rotisserie chicken?
Absolutely! Just simmer the broth with veggies, add pre-shredded chicken and pasta toward the end.

Is it kid-friendly?
Very! Mild, comforting, and you can adjust herbs and lemon to suit young taste buds.

🥰 In Conclusion

Italian Penicillin Soup is so much more than just a bowl of broth — it’s tradition, comfort, and healing all in one. Whether you're making it for yourself, your partner, your kiddos, or a friend in need, this recipe is a warm gesture of love that truly speaks louder than words.

Don’t wait for a sniffle to try it. Your soul deserves this bowl, any day of the week.

🍑 More Cozy Recipes You’ll Love

📸 Let’s See Your Creations!

Tried this soup? I’d LOVE to see it!
📌 Share your photo on Pinterest and tag me so I can swoon over your bowl. 💬 Leave a review below – it helps others find and fall in love with this recipe too!

🥄 Nutritional Info (per serving – approx.)

Calories: 310
Protein: 28g
Carbs: 22g
Fat: 12g
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 4g

Note: Nutrition will vary based on pasta type and additions.