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Italian Penicillin Soup

A cozy, comforting Italian soup made with tender chicken, fresh herbs, and small pasta, perfect for busy weeknights or chilly days.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Main Course, Soup
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

Aromatic Base
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 large onion, diced (about 1 cup)
  • 3 medium carrots, sliced into rounds
  • 3 stalks celery, chopped
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
Main Ingredients
  • 8 cups low-sodium chicken broth (or vegetable broth for vegetarian option)
  • 1 whole chicken breast, bone-in and skin-on (about 1 pound)
  • 2 leaves bay leaves
  • 1 cup small pasta (ditalini, orzo, or small shells)
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
Garnishes
  • Freshly grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese
  • Extra virgin olive oil for drizzling
  • Crusty Italian bread for serving

Method
 

Build the Aromatic Base
  1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion, sliced carrots, and chopped celery. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until softened and the onion turns translucent. Add the minced garlic and sauté for one more minute.
Add Broth and Chicken
  1. Pour the chicken broth into the pot, then add the chicken breast. Add bay leaves, oregano, thyme, and red pepper flakes. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to simmer.
Simmer Until Tender
  1. Partially cover the pot and let it simmer for about 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and shreddable. Remove the chicken and let it cool.
Shred and Season
  1. Once cool, remove skin and bones, then shred the meat. Return the shredded chicken to the pot and season the broth with salt and pepper.
Cook the Pasta
  1. Bring the soup back to a gentle boil, add pasta, and cook according to package directions until al dente.
Finish with Fresh Elements
  1. Remove bay leaves, stir in lemon juice and parsley. Taste and adjust seasoning. Serve with grated Parmigiano-Reggiano, drizzle olive oil, and crusty Italian bread on the side.

Notes

Use low-sodium broth to control saltiness; browning chicken before adding broth can add depth of flavor. Add more veggies like spinach or zucchini for a heartier soup.