Italian Penicillin Soup Recipe has always held a very special place in my kitchen. It’s the kind of soup that feels like a gentle hug — warm, healing, and full of old-world charm. The first spoonful always transports me to memories of simple homemade meals, the kind prepared slowly with love, fresh herbs, and the comforting aroma of simmering broth. That’s exactly why I return to this Italian Penicillin Soup Recipe again and again, especially on chilly evenings or whenever I need something soothing and restorative.
Inspired by traditional Homemade Italian chicken soup, this recipe blends the healing power of garlic, bright lemon, tender chicken, and small Italian pasta with a broth that feels like pure comfort. Whether you’re feeling under the weather or simply craving a nurturing bowl of warmth, this soup delivers flavor, nostalgia, and nourishment every single time.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
There are so many reasons this soup has become a favorite in households everywhere:
- It’s powerfully comforting. The combination of herbs, broth, chicken, and pasta creates a soothing, homey experience.
- Made with simple ingredients. Everything in this recipe is easy to find, budget-friendly, and wholesome.
- Quick enough for weeknights. Ready in under 45 minutes, but tastes like it simmered for hours.
- Perfect for meal prep. Make a big pot and enjoy it for lunches or dinners throughout the week.
- Incredibly nourishing. Garlic, lemon, and broth help revive the body — hence the “penicillin” nickname.
- A family-friendly classic. Kids and adults both love how cozy, mild, and flavorful it is.
This is truly the kind of soup that keeps you coming back for another bowl.
Ingredients Needed for This Recipe
Here’s everything you’ll need to bring this comforting Italian classic to life:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 large carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 1 lb (450 g) chicken breasts or thighs
- 8 cups chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 cup small pasta (ditalini or orzo)
- 1 cup baby spinach
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
- Optional: grated Parmesan
How to Make Italian Penicillin Soup Recipe
Follow these simple, friendly steps to create a pot of pure comfort:
- Heat the olive oil in a large soup pot over medium heat.
- Add the onion, carrots, and celery, then sauté for 5–6 minutes until they soften.
- Stir in the garlic and let it cook for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add the whole chicken breasts or thighs directly into the pot.
- Pour in the chicken broth and add oregano, basil, thyme, salt, and pepper.
- Bring everything to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 20 minutes.
- Remove the chicken, shred it with two forks, then return it to the pot.
- Stir in the pasta and let it cook until tender — usually 8–10 minutes.
- Add the spinach and lemon juice, stirring until the greens wilt.
- Taste and adjust seasonings: add more salt, pepper, or lemon if needed.
- Serve warm, topped with fresh parsley and Parmesan if you love extra richness.
How to Serve Italian Penicillin Soup Recipe
This soup is delicious on its own, but here are a few serving ideas that make it even better:
- With crusty Italian bread to soak up every drop of the broth.
- With a sprinkle of Parmesan for a savory, cheesy finish.
- With fresh lemon wedges so each person can add a bright, refreshing squeeze.
- As a starter for an Italian dinner — perfect before pasta or roasted chicken.
- Alongside a simple green salad drizzled with olive oil and balsamic vinegar.
This recipe makes the kind of meal that feels complete without much effort.
How to Store Italian Penicillin Soup
Storing this soup is easy, and it reheats beautifully:
- Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezer: Freeze without pasta for optimal texture — up to 3 months.
- Reheating: Warm slowly on the stovetop. Add fresh cooked pasta to the bowl before serving if you froze the soup.
Tips to Make Italian Penicillin Soup Recipe Perfect Every Time
A few small tricks make a big difference:
- Use bone-in chicken for an even richer, deeper broth.
- Add a Parmesan rind while simmering — it melts slowly and gives incredible flavor.
- Use fresh lemon juice only. Bottled lemon doesn’t give the same bright finish.
- Don’t overcook the pasta. It should stay tender but not mushy.
- Add veggies you love. Zucchini, peas, or mushrooms work beautifully.
- Season at the end. This gives the soup the perfect balance.
Helpful Notes for This Recipe
- You can easily swap spinach for kale, especially if you like a more robust green.
- If you’re short on time, rotisserie chicken works wonderfully — just add it at the end.
- For gluten-free diets, simply use GF pasta or even rice.
- Want it heartier? Add a can of white beans for extra protein.
Variation
Tuscan-Inspired Italian Penicillin Soup
For a deeper, rustic flavor, try adding:
- Sun-dried tomatoes
- White beans
- Fresh rosemary
- A splash of cream
This creates a creamy, cozy Tuscan version that feels luxurious but still simple.
FAQs (More Detailed & Warmer Tone)
1. What makes this soup “Italian Penicillin”?
The nickname comes from how incredibly soothing and restorative the soup is. With its garlic, lemon, herbs, and broth, it helps warm the body, ease discomfort, and bring comfort — much like a natural remedy passed down through generations. The Italian herbs add brightness and depth, making it even more healing than a classic chicken soup.
2. Can I make this recipe in the slow cooker?
Yes, and it turns out wonderfully! Add all ingredients except pasta and spinach to the slow cooker. Cook on LOW for 6–7 hours or HIGH for 3–4 hours. Shred the chicken, return it to the pot, then stir in pasta and cook on HIGH for 20 minutes. Add spinach at the very end.
3. Can I use rotisserie chicken instead of raw chicken?
Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is a perfect shortcut when you’re short on time. Add it shredded at the end, just long enough to warm through. This still gives you an incredibly flavorful soup.
4. How can I make the soup thicker or creamier?
If you prefer a thicker texture, simmer the soup for an extra 10–15 minutes or add a cornstarch slurry. For a creamier version, stir in a splash of heavy cream or half-and-half. You can even blend a small portion of the soup and stir it back in.
Conclusion
Warm, nurturing, and full of Italian flavor, this soup is one of the most comforting recipes you can make at home. It’s simple, wholesome, and satisfying — the kind of dish that brings people together around the table, especially on cold days or when someone needs a little extra love. If you’re craving something truly comforting, healing, and delicious, this Italian Penicillin Soup Recipe is exactly what you need. Make it once, and it will become a cherished favorite in your kitchen.