If you’re craving a bowl of warmth that feels like a hug, this Ultimate Italian Penicillin Soup is exactly what you need. In the first spoonful, you’ll taste tender chicken, aromatic vegetables, gentle herbs, and cozy pasta all swimming in a savory broth that’s simple, soothing, and deeply comforting. It’s the kind of soup people make when someone they love needs nourishment—or when they just want a wholesome, satisfying meal that never disappoints.
Often nicknamed “penicillin soup,” this Italian-inspired classic doesn’t promise miracles, but it does deliver comfort, hydration, and familiar flavors that feel restorative any time of year. Best of all, it’s easy enough for weeknights, flexible for substitutions, and perfect for feeding the whole family.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Ultimate Italian Penicillin Soup
- Simple, honest ingredients you likely already have
- One-pot comfort food with minimal cleanup
- Family-friendly flavors—no spice, no fuss
- Customizable with vegetables, pasta, or greens
- Freezer-friendly and great for meal prep
- Light yet satisfying, making it perfect year-round
This soup is proof that you don’t need complicated steps or fancy ingredients to make something truly wonderful.
Ingredients for Ultimate Italian Penicillin Soup
This recipe is built on classic Italian soup basics—fresh vegetables, chicken, herbs, broth, and pasta.
Main Soup Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely diced
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 8 cups chicken broth (low-sodium preferred)
- 2–3 cups cooked chicken, shredded or chopped
- 1 cup small pasta (ditalini, orzo, or small shells)
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Optional Add-Ins
- Fresh spinach or kale
- Lemon juice or zest
- Grated Parmesan cheese
Ingredient Notes & Substitutions
- Chicken: Rotisserie chicken saves time, but leftover roasted or poached chicken works perfectly.
- Pasta: Small pasta shapes are ideal. Gluten-free pasta can be substituted—just cook separately to avoid overcooking.
- Broth: Low-sodium broth lets you control seasoning. Vegetable broth also works for a lighter flavor.
- Extra veggies: Zucchini, peas, or escarole fit beautifully into this soup.
- No alcohol, no pork: This recipe is naturally family-safe and suitable for broad audiences.
Step-by-Step Instructions
This soup comes together easily with just a few simple steps.
Step 1 – Sauté the Aromatics
Heat olive oil in a large soup pot over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, and celery. Cook for about 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables soften and the onion becomes translucent. Add the garlic and cook for 30 seconds, just until fragrant.
Step 2 – Build the Broth
Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Stir in the Italian seasoning, along with a pinch of salt and black pepper. Let the soup simmer for 10–15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Step 3 – Add Chicken and Pasta
Add the shredded chicken to the pot, followed by the pasta. Reduce the heat to a steady simmer and cook until the pasta is just tender, usually 8–10 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Step 4 – Finish and Serve
Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. If using leafy greens, stir them in during the last 2 minutes of cooking. Remove from heat and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve hot, with lemon or Parmesan if desired.
Pro Tips for Success
- Don’t overcook the pasta—it should be tender but not mushy.
- Simmer gently, not rapidly, to keep the broth clear and flavorful.
- Season gradually and taste at the end for best balance.
- Add lemon juice at the table for brightness without overpowering the soup.
- Cook pasta separately if you plan to freeze leftovers.
Flavor Variations
- Lemony Italian Penicillin Soup: Add fresh lemon zest and juice before serving.
- Extra Veggie Boost: Stir in zucchini, spinach, or peas.
- Herb-Forward Version: Add fresh thyme or basil along with parsley.
- Hearty Style: Increase chicken and pasta slightly for a more filling meal.
Serving Suggestions
This soup is wonderful on its own, but it pairs beautifully with:
- Crusty bread or garlic toast
- A simple green salad
- Crackers or breadsticks
- A sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan
It’s perfect for lunch, dinner, or anytime comfort food is needed.
Storage and Freezing Instructions
Refrigerator:
Store cooled soup in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezer:
Freeze the soup without pasta for best texture. Add freshly cooked pasta when reheating. Frozen soup keeps well for up to 3 months.
Reheating:
Warm gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth if needed.
Ultimate Italian Penicillin Soup – Easy & Comforting
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
Description
A warm, comforting Italian-style chicken soup made with tender chicken, aromatic vegetables, gentle herbs, and cozy pasta in a soothing savory broth.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely diced
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 8 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 2–3 cups cooked chicken, shredded or chopped
- 1 cup small pasta (ditalini, orzo, or small shells)
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add onion, carrots, and celery and cook until softened.
- Add garlic and cook briefly until fragrant.
- Pour in chicken broth and bring to a gentle boil.
- Stir in Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper.
- Simmer to allow flavors to develop.
- Add cooked chicken to the pot.
- Add pasta and simmer until just tender.
- Adjust seasoning as needed.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.
Notes
Avoid overcooking the pasta and simmer gently for the best flavor. Cook pasta separately if planning to freeze leftovers.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Approx. Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 280 |
| Protein | 22g |
| Carbohydrates | 26g |
| Fat | 9g |
| Fiber | 3g |
| Sodium | 620mg |
Values are estimates and may vary based on ingredients used.
FAQ About Ultimate Italian Penicillin Soup
What makes this a “penicillin” soup?
It’s a nickname for comforting chicken soup often made when someone feels under the weather. The warm broth, garlic, and herbs are soothing and nourishing.
Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes! The flavor improves after resting. Just store the pasta separately if making more than one day ahead.
Is this soup good for kids?
Absolutely. The mild, familiar flavors make it a great choice for children and picky eaters.
Can I make it gluten-free?
Yes. Use gluten-free pasta or substitute cooked rice instead.
How do I make it more filling?
Add more chicken, extra vegetables, or a slightly larger portion of pasta.
Final Thoughts
This Ultimate Italian Penicillin Soup – Easy & Comforting is the kind of recipe you’ll come back to again and again. It’s simple, nourishing, flexible, and deeply satisfying—perfect for busy weeknights, cozy weekends, or anytime you need a little extra comfort in a bowl. Once you try it, it’s sure to become a household favorite.