There are certain dishes that feel like a gentle embrace, and Homestyle Italian Penicillin Soup is one of them. This is the kind of meal you turn to on a quiet evening when the weather turns chilly or when you need something soothing and restorative after a long day. In many Italian households, a simple chicken-based soup has long been considered a natural remedy, lovingly prepared to bring warmth, comfort, and strength back to the body.
This recipe is inspired by the traditional Italian belief that food is medicine when made with care. Slowly simmered chicken, aromatic vegetables, and delicate pasta come together to create a broth that is deeply nourishing without being heavy. It is the kind of soup passed down through generations, made not from strict measurements at first, but from instinct, patience, and love. Whether you are cooking for family, friends, or yourself, this soup invites you to slow down and savor every spoonful.
Why This Soup Is Called “Italian Penicillin”
In Italy, there is a long-standing tradition of using simple soups as a way to restore energy and promote well-being. The term “Italian Penicillin” is a playful nickname for chicken soup prepared with care, fresh vegetables, and herbs. It is not a medical claim, but rather a reflection of how deeply comforting and strengthening this dish feels.
This soup relies on natural ingredients that have been used for centuries in Italian cooking. Onions, carrots, celery, garlic, and chicken are simmered slowly to extract maximum flavor and nourishment. The result is a clear yet golden broth that feels light but satisfying. Small pasta shapes or rice are often added, making the soup filling enough to be a complete meal.
What makes this version special is its homestyle simplicity. There are no complicated techniques or rare ingredients. Everything is accessible, familiar, and comforting, making this soup perfect for both experienced cooks and beginners.
Ingredients That Make This Soup Special
Every ingredient in Homestyle Italian Penicillin Soup plays an important role in building flavor and texture. Using fresh, high-quality ingredients will elevate the final result.
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Chicken: Bone-in chicken thighs or a whole chicken provide a richer, more flavorful broth.
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Olive oil: Adds depth and smoothness to the base of the soup.
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Onion, carrots, and celery: Known as the classic Italian soffritto, these vegetables create a flavorful foundation.
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Garlic: Adds warmth and aroma without overpowering the broth.
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Bay leaf and dried herbs: Infuse the soup with gentle herbal notes.
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Small pasta: Ditalini, stelline, or acini di pepe are traditional and comforting.
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Fresh parsley: Brightens the soup just before serving.
Each component works together to create a balanced soup that is both comforting and deeply flavorful.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Creating the Base with Olive Oil
The foundation of this soup begins with olive oil gently heated in a large, heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat. Olive oil is essential here because it adds subtle richness while helping release the natural sweetness of the vegetables. Allow the oil to warm slowly rather than rushing this step. When the oil begins to shimmer slightly, it is ready to receive the vegetables. This careful start ensures the flavors develop evenly and prevents any bitterness from overheating.
Building Flavor with Onion, Carrots, and Celery
Once the oil is ready, add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery to the pot. This trio forms the classic Italian soffritto, which is the backbone of countless comforting dishes. Stir the vegetables occasionally and let them cook for several minutes until they soften and become fragrant. The onion should turn translucent, while the carrots and celery release their gentle sweetness. This step is crucial, as it sets the overall flavor tone for the entire soup.
Adding Garlic for Aroma
Next, stir in the minced garlic. Garlic should always be added after the vegetables have softened, as it cooks much faster. Allow it to sauté for about 30 seconds, just until fragrant. Be careful not to let it brown, as burnt garlic can overpower the delicate balance of the broth. At this stage, the kitchen will already begin to fill with the comforting aroma that makes this soup so inviting.
Introducing the Chicken and Seasonings
Now it is time to add the chicken pieces, bay leaf, dried herbs, salt, and black pepper. Nestle the chicken into the vegetables so it begins to absorb the flavors immediately. The dried herbs slowly infuse the broth as it cooks, while the bay leaf adds a subtle depth that enhances the overall profile. Stir gently to distribute the seasonings evenly without breaking apart the vegetables.
Pouring in Water and Beginning the Simmer
Carefully pour in the measured water, making sure the chicken is fully submerged. Increase the heat slightly to bring the liquid to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low. This is one of the most important steps in the entire process. A gentle simmer allows the chicken to cook evenly and releases flavor into the broth without making it cloudy. Avoid boiling, as it can toughen the chicken and dull the delicate flavors.
Slow Cooking for a Rich Broth
Let the soup simmer slowly for about 40 to 45 minutes. During this time, the chicken becomes tender and the broth develops a rich, golden color. You may notice a small amount of foam rising to the surface early on; skim this away for a clearer broth. This slow cooking period is where patience truly pays off, transforming simple ingredients into something deeply nourishing and comforting.
Shredding the Chicken
Once the chicken is fully cooked, carefully remove it from the pot and place it on a cutting board. Allow it to cool slightly before shredding the meat into bite-sized pieces. Discard the bones and skin. Shredding the chicken ensures that every spoonful of soup contains tender pieces of meat, making the texture more inviting and evenly distributed.
Returning the Chicken and Adding Pasta
Return the shredded chicken to the pot and bring the soup back to a gentle simmer. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions, usually about 8 to 10 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. The pasta absorbs some of the flavorful broth, adding body and heartiness to the soup without overwhelming it.
Finishing with Fresh Parsley and Final Adjustments
Just before serving, stir in the freshly chopped parsley. This final touch adds brightness and a fresh herbal note that lifts the entire dish. Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with additional salt or black pepper if needed. The result is a clear, golden soup that tastes as though it has been simmering all day, offering warmth, balance, and comforting depth in every bowl.
Tips for the Best Homestyle Italian Penicillin Soup
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Simmer gently rather than boiling to keep the broth clear.
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Skim any foam from the surface during cooking for a cleaner flavor.
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Add pasta just before serving if you plan to store leftovers.
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Taste and adjust seasoning at the end for the best balance.
These small details make a noticeable difference in the final soup.
Serving Suggestions
This soup is wonderful on its own, but it also pairs beautifully with crusty bread or a simple side salad. A sprinkle of freshly grated hard cheese can add richness, though the soup is equally satisfying without it. Serve it hot, allowing the steam to carry the comforting aroma to the table.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes, Homestyle Italian Penicillin Soup is an excellent make-ahead dish. In fact, many people find that it tastes even better the next day after the flavors have had time to meld. If you plan to prepare it in advance, consider cooking the pasta separately and adding it just before serving. This prevents the pasta from absorbing too much broth and becoming overly soft. Store the soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator, and gently reheat it on the stovetop when ready to serve.
2. What type of chicken works best for this recipe?
Bone-in chicken pieces, such as thighs or drumsticks, are ideal because they contribute more flavor to the broth. A whole chicken cut into pieces also works very well. Boneless chicken can be used if preferred, but the broth may be slightly lighter in flavor. If using boneless chicken, you may want to simmer the soup a bit longer or add extra vegetables to enhance depth.
3. Can I freeze Italian Penicillin Soup?
This soup freezes well, especially if the pasta is cooked separately. Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. Leave a little space at the top for expansion. When ready to enjoy, thaw the soup in the refrigerator overnight and reheat gently on the stove. Add freshly cooked pasta and herbs before serving for the best texture and flavor.
4. How can I customize this soup to my taste?
One of the joys of this recipe is its flexibility. You can add leafy greens like spinach or escarole near the end of cooking for extra color and nutrition. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice can brighten the flavor just before serving. You may also adjust the herbs, adding thyme or rosemary for a slightly different aroma. The soup adapts easily while still maintaining its comforting character.
Final Thoughts
Homestyle Italian Penicillin Soup is more than just a recipe; it is a reminder of how powerful simple food can be. In a world filled with complicated meals and rushed schedules, this soup encourages a return to basics. It invites you to slow down, let ingredients simmer gently, and enjoy the process as much as the result.
This soup is perfect for sharing, whether you are cooking for loved ones or preparing a nourishing meal for yourself. It carries with it a sense of tradition, care, and warmth that is hard to replicate with more elaborate dishes. Each bowl tells a story of home kitchens, family gatherings, and quiet moments of comfort.
By making this soup, you are participating in a timeless culinary ritual. You are choosing ingredients that have been trusted for generations and transforming them into something deeply satisfying. No matter the season, there is always room at the table for a bowl of Homestyle Italian Penicillin Soup, warm, nourishing, and made with heart.
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Homestyle Italian Penicillin Soup Warm & Nourishing
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 4–6 servings 1x
Description
A comforting Italian-style chicken soup made with simple ingredients, perfect for cozy evenings and nourishing meals.
Ingredients
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2 tablespoons olive oil
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1 medium onion, finely chopped
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2 medium carrots, sliced
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2 celery stalks, sliced
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3 cloves garlic, minced
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1.5 pounds (680 g) bone-in chicken thighs or drumsticks
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8 cups (1.9 liters) water
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1 bay leaf
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1 teaspoon dried oregano
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0.5 teaspoon dried thyme
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1 teaspoon salt, or to taste
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0.5 teaspoon black pepper
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1 cup (100 g) small pasta (ditalini or stelline)
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2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
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Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
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Add onion, carrots, and celery, cooking for 5–7 minutes until softened.
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Stir in garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
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Add chicken, water, bay leaf, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper.
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Bring to a gentle simmer and cook for 40–45 minutes.
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Remove chicken, shred the meat, and discard bones.
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Return shredded chicken to the pot.
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Add pasta and cook for 8–10 minutes until tender.
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Stir in fresh parsley and adjust seasoning before serving.
Notes
For best results, cook pasta separately if storing leftovers. Adjust seasoning after reheating and add extra water or broth if needed.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
