Healing Italian Penicillin Soup – Light, Easy & Comforting When Sick

Italian Penicillin Soup is a light, easy, and comforting remedy for when you're sick, filled with wholesome ingredients and flavors.

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Course: Dinner

Cuisine: Italian

Keyword: Comfort Food, Easy Recipe, healthy soup, Italian Penicillin Soup, soup recipe, wholesome ingredients

Prep Time: 10

Cook Time: 30

Total Time: 40

Servings: bowls

Calories: 350kcal

2 tablespoons Olive Oil Use avocado oil for a neutral taste.
1 medium Onion Can substitute with leek for a milder taste.
2 medium Carrots Use parsnips for a different flavor profile.
2 stalks Celery Omit if unavailable; increase onion.
3 cloves Garlic Use garlic powder in a pinch.
6 cups Chicken Broth Opt for low-sodium broth or homemade for richer flavor.
1 pound Chicken Breast Thighs can be used for more flavor.
2 leaves Bay Leaves Omit if unavailable but adjust seasoning to taste.
1 teaspoon Oregano Use dried herbs at ⅓ the quantity if fresh isn't available.
1 teaspoon Thyme Use dried herbs at ⅓ the quantity if fresh isn't available.
½ teaspoon Red Pepper Flakes Skip for a milder soup.
1 cup Pasta Substitute with rice for gluten-free.
2 tablespoons Fresh Lemon Juice Lime juice can be used in a pinch.
2 tablespoons Chopped Parsley Substitute with dried parsley if necessary.
¼ cup Parmigiano-Reggiano Cheese Omit or replace with nutritional yeast for dairy-free.

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced onion, carrots, and celery, stirring for 5-7 minutes until the vegetables bloom in color and soften. Stir in minced garlic for an added depth of flavor for about 1 minute.
Pour in your chicken broth, followed by the chicken breast, bay leaves, oregano, thyme, and red pepper flakes, if using. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cover partially and let cook for 25-30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
Carefully remove the chicken from the pot and let it cool slightly. Shred it with two forks or your hands before returning the tender pieces to the pot.
Add pasta to your pot of simmering goodness. Cook according to package directions until al dente, soaking up that rich broth.
Remove the bay leaves for a smooth finish. Stir in the fresh lemon juice and chopped parsley, adjusting the seasoning to your preference for a touch of brightness.

Taste as you go to ensure a well-balanced flavor. Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze without pasta for up to 3 months.