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Italian Penicillin Soup

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A comforting and hearty soup that’s perfect for cold days and busy weeknights, packed with flavors and nutrients.

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 for garnish
  • Extra virgin olive oil for drizzling
  • Crusty Italian bread for serving

Instructions

  1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced onion, carrots, and celery. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until the vegetables soften and the onion becomes translucent. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute.
  2. Pour in the chicken broth and place the chicken breast into the pot. Add bay leaves, oregano, thyme, and red pepper flakes if using. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to simmer.
  3. Cover partially and simmer for 25-30 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through. Remove the chicken and let it cool slightly.
  4. Shred the chicken meat into bite-sized pieces and return it to the pot. Season the broth with salt and pepper to taste.
  5. Add the pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. The broth will thicken slightly from the pasta starch.
  6. Remove bay leaves and stir in lemon juice and parsley. Taste and adjust seasoning. Serve hot with grated cheese, a drizzle of olive oil, and crusty bread.

Notes

For gluten-free diets, replace pasta with rice or omit it entirely. Vegetarians can skip the chicken and use vegetable broth with white beans for protein.

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