Name: Italian Penicillin Soup: Comforting Healing Broth with Chicken, Pasta, and Fresh Herbs Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil; 1 large onion, diced (about 1 cup); 3 medium carrots, sliced into rounds; 3 celery stalks, chopped; 4 garlic cloves, minced; 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 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; Freshly grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese; Extra virgin olive oil for drizzling; Crusty Italian bread for serving

Jump to Recipe· 4.1 from 20 reviews

If you are longing for a bowl of soulful nourishment that feels like a warm hug, look no further than this Italian Penicillin Soup: Comforting Healing Broth with Chicken, Pasta, and Fresh Herbs Recipe. With its rich, aromatic broth infused with tender chicken, delicate pasta, and vibrant fresh herbs, it’s not just a soup but a healing sanctuary in a bowl. Perfect for chilly evenings or when you need a little restorative magic, this recipe combines simple ingredients into a symphony of flavors that comforts both body and soul.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Inside a white pot, there are layers of fresh vegetables arranged loosely. At the bottom, thick chunks of bright orange carrots are grouped together on one side. Next to them, pieces of pale green celery are placed in a rough pile. Spread around, there are several whole garlic cloves with a smooth white texture. In the middle, thick white onion slices lay flat, topped with small green sprigs of fresh herbs and a few drops of reddish-orange seasoning oil. The inside of the pot is a soft cream color, contrasting with the colorful vegetables. The pot is set on a white marbled surface photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Gathering these straightforward yet essential ingredients is the first step toward creating a soup that’s bursting with flavor, texture, and color. Each element plays a critical role in building the delicious layers that make this soup so special.

2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil: Provides a fruity, heart-healthy base that gently sautés the veggies.
1 large onion, diced: Adds subtle sweetness and depth to the broth.
3 medium carrots, sliced: Contribute vibrant color and natural sweetness.
3 celery stalks, chopped: Bring a fragrant earthiness and gentle crunch to the mix.
4 garlic cloves, minced: Infuses the soup with warmth and immune-boosting properties.
8 cups low-sodium chicken broth: The flavorful liquid base, providing a rich, savory canvas.
1 whole chicken breast, bone-in and skin-on: Ensures tender, juicy meat and enriched broth.
2 bay leaves: Add a subtle, herbal complexity.
1 cup small pasta (ditalini, orzo, or small shells): Offers comforting body and texture.
1 teaspoon dried oregano: Brings classic Italian herbal notes.
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme: Adds a gentle earthy aroma.
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): Lends a touch of warming spice.
Salt and freshly ground black pepper: To taste, seasoning each component perfectly.
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice: Brightens and balances the rich broth.
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped: Adds a burst of fresh herbal flavor and color.
Freshly grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese: For a savory, salty finish (optional).
Extra virgin olive oil for drizzling: Enhances richness and mouthfeel at serving.
Crusty Italian bread: Perfect for dipping and soaking up every last drop.

How to Make Italian Penicillin Soup: Comforting Healing Broth with Chicken, Pasta, and Fresh Herbs Recipe

Step 1: Build the Aromatic Base

Start by heating that luscious extra virgin olive oil in a sturdy pot over medium heat. Toss in diced onions, carrots, and celery, and sauté gently for about 5 to 7 minutes until the veggies soften and the onion turns translucent. This trio forms the holy trinity of flavor foundations that make this soup truly comfort-inducing. Then, stir in minced garlic and cook for just a minute more, letting the kitchen fill with irresistible fragrance without letting it brown.

Step 2: Add Broth and Chicken

Pour in the chicken broth, nestle the whole skin-on chicken breast right into the pot, and scatter in bay leaves, oregano, thyme, and red pepper flakes if you want a mild kick. Bring everything to a gentle boil before reducing the heat to a steady simmer. The secret here is patience—the slow simmer lets the chicken become tender and fills your broth with layers of soulful flavor.

Step 3: Simmer Until Tender

Cover the pot partially and let the soup simmer gently for 25 to 30 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through and easily shreds apart. By now, your kitchen will be wrapped in the warm aroma of healing comfort. Carefully remove the chicken breast and let it cool slightly before handling.

Step 4: Shred and Season

Peel away the skin and bones, then shred the chicken meat into bite-sized pieces using two forks. Season the broth modestly with salt and freshly ground black pepper, remembering the flavors will intensify as you continue cooking. This is one of those moments where tasting as you go works wonders.

Step 5: Cook the Pasta

Return the shredded chicken to the pot and bring the soup just back to a boil. Add your choice of small pasta and cook until al dente according to package instructions. The starch from the pasta will gently thicken the broth, giving it that perfect velvety consistency that makes this Italian Penicillin Soup: Comforting Healing Broth with Chicken, Pasta, and Fresh Herbs Recipe so irresistible.

Step 6: Finish with Fresh Elements

Pull out the bay leaves and stir in fresh lemon juice alongside the chopped parsley. The lemon juice is a game changer—it brightens and lifts the entire soup, while parsley adds a fresh, herbaceous note that balances the richness beautifully. Give the soup a final taste and adjust salt and pepper if needed.

How to Serve Italian Penicillin Soup: Comforting Healing Broth with Chicken, Pasta, and Fresh Herbs Recipe

A white bowl filled with thick orange soup that has small pieces of rice and vegetables inside. On top, there are browned grilled chicken pieces, some shredded white cheese, and chopped green herbs spread over the surface. A silver spoon rests inside the bowl on the right side. The bowl is placed on a wooden board with a yellow cloth nearby, and there is a piece of toasted bread and a glass jar with green herbs blurred in the background, all set on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

To truly elevate your bowl, drizzle with a little extra virgin olive oil and sprinkle generously with freshly grated Parmigiano-Reggiano. These finishing touches add a luxurious silkiness and umami pop that will have everyone reaching for seconds.

Side Dishes

A thick slice of crusty Italian bread is the perfect accompaniment, soaking up the broth and adding a satisfying bite to each spoonful. For a lighter side, a crisp arugula salad tossed with lemon vinaigrette can add a peppery, bright contrast that feels fresh and balanced.

Creative Ways to Present

For an extra cozy presentation, serve this Italian Penicillin Soup: Comforting Healing Broth with Chicken, Pasta, and Fresh Herbs Recipe in hollowed-out bread bowls. It’s not only stunning but also functional, turning your meal into a delightful and memorable experience that guests will love.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, transfer your soup into airtight containers and store in the refrigerator. It will keep beautifully for up to four days, and the flavors only deepen overnight, making leftovers just as heavenly as the first day.

Freezing

This soup freezes wonderfully for up to three months. For the best texture, freeze without the pasta and add freshly cooked pasta when reheating, so it stays perfectly tender and doesn’t get mushy.

Reheating

Warm your soup gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat and stir occasionally. If it thickens too much, add a splash of broth or water to loosen it back up. For quick reheating, microwave individual portions in 30-second bursts, stirring between each to ensure even heating.

FAQs

Can I make this soup vegetarian?

Absolutely! Substitute vegetable broth for chicken broth and replace the chicken with white beans or chickpeas. Adding extra vegetables like zucchini or kale can also enhance both nutrition and flavor.

What if I don’t have Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese?

If you’re avoiding dairy, you can skip the cheese or use nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without the dairy. The soup’s flavor holds up beautifully either way.

Can I use different types of pasta?

Yes! Small pasta shapes like ditalini, orzo, or petite shells are ideal because they cook quickly and complement the soup’s texture. For gluten-free options, consider rice, quinoa, or gluten-free pasta.

How do I prevent the chicken from overcooking?

Keep an eye on the simmer time and remove the chicken as soon as it shreds easily with a fork—usually between 25 and 30 minutes. Overcooked chicken can become tough and lose tenderness.

Is the lemon juice really necessary?

Yes! That fresh lemon juice is the final touch that brightens the entire soup and balances its savory richness, making it taste fresh and vibrant every time.

Final Thoughts

This Italian Penicillin Soup: Comforting Healing Broth with Chicken, Pasta, and Fresh Herbs Recipe is an absolute treasure for anyone who loves warmth, nourishment, and a little culinary magic in their kitchen. Whether you’re chasing away a cold or simply craving a bowl of pure comfort, this recipe delivers kindness and care in every spoonful. Take your time making it, savor each step, and enjoy the beautiful healing flavors that make this soup a beloved go-to whenever you need a little extra love.