Italian Penicillin Soup

When the weather gets chilly or you’re feeling a little under the weather, there’s nothing quite like a warm, comforting bowl of soup to make everything better. This Italian Penicillin Soup is the perfect remedy for those days. Picture yourself spooning up hearty, savory broth with tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and just the right amount of spice. It’s like a hug in a bowl! Whether you’re recovering from a cold or just craving some cozy comfort, this soup will become your go-to for comfort and nourishment. Trust me, you’re going to love this one!

Why You’ll Love Italian Penicillin Soup

Italian Penicillin Soup is a total game-changer when it comes to comfort food. Not only does it taste incredible, but it’s packed with healing ingredients—perfect for a cozy night in or when you need something soothing. Here’s why it’ll steal your heart:

• Hearty and Nourishing: This soup is full of tender chicken, veggies, and just the right amount of broth to warm you up from the inside out. It’s a meal that leaves you feeling full and satisfied.
• Flavorful Comfort: The combination of garlic, Italian herbs, and a bit of heat gives the soup a depth of flavor that’s both comforting and invigorating. It’s like your own personal Italian home remedy!
• Quick and Easy: While it’s packed with layers of flavor, it doesn’t take hours to make. In less than 45 minutes, you can have a steaming bowl of goodness ready to enjoy.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether you’re feeling sick, serving a big family meal, or just craving something heartwarming, this soup fits the bill every time.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this magical, soul-soothing soup:

• Chicken Breasts: Boneless and skinless, these will cook up tender and juicy, infusing the broth with flavor.
• Carrots: Adds a touch of sweetness and color that makes the soup even more inviting.
• Celery: A classic soup ingredient that brings a mild crunch and freshness.
• Garlic: Freshly minced garlic is the key to that irresistible aroma.
• Onion: Adds a rich, savory depth that forms the base of the soup.
• Chicken Broth: The savory liquid that brings everything together. Use low-sodium if you prefer.
• Ditalini Pasta: Little pasta pieces that soak up the broth, making each bite extra satisfying.
• Italian Seasoning: A mix of herbs that infuse the soup with classic Italian flavors.
• Red Pepper Flakes: Just a pinch for a gentle kick of heat. You can adjust this depending on your spice preference.
• Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated for a touch of nutty, creamy goodness on top.
• Lemon Juice: A squeeze of lemon at the end brightens up the flavors and adds a zingy freshness.

(Note: The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions

Let’s get this soup simmering and fill your kitchen with the most incredible aroma!

Cook the Chicken

Start by heating a bit of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper and cook them for about 6-7 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the pot, set it aside, and let it cool slightly before shredding it into bite-sized pieces.

Sauté the Veggies

In the same pot, add a little more oil if needed and sauté the chopped onion, carrots, and celery over medium heat for about 5-6 minutes, or until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, just until fragrant.

Simmer the Broth

Pour in the chicken broth and stir in the Italian seasoning and red pepper flakes. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

Add the Pasta and Chicken

Once the broth is bubbling away, stir in the ditalini pasta and shredded chicken. Let the soup simmer for an additional 10 minutes, or until the pasta is tender and cooked through.

Finish with Lemon and Parmesan

Once the pasta is cooked, squeeze in some fresh lemon juice to brighten everything up. Give the soup a final stir and taste—add more salt, pepper, or lemon juice if needed.

Serve and Enjoy

Ladle the soup into bowls, top with freshly grated parmesan cheese, and enjoy the comforting goodness!

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 4
Calories per serving: 350
Total Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Cholesterol: 65mg
Sodium: 800mg
Total Carbohydrates: 35g
Dietary Fiber: 4g
Sugars: 5g
Protein: 30g

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes

How to Serve Italian Penicillin Soup

This soup is hearty enough on its own, but a few simple sides can make it even more special:

• Garlic Bread: Warm, buttery garlic bread is perfect for soaking up that delicious broth.
• Green Salad: A light, crisp salad with a tangy vinaigrette is a refreshing contrast to the rich soup.
• Cheese Toast: Another cheesy delight that pairs perfectly with the warm soup. Just melt some mozzarella on top of toast for a simple yet satisfying side.
• Crispy Croutons: A few crunchy croutons sprinkled on top adds texture and extra flavor.

Additional Tips

• Make It Spicy: If you like a bit more heat, add extra red pepper flakes or even a dash of hot sauce to really spice things up.
• Veggie Boost: Toss in some spinach or kale at the end of cooking for an added boost of nutrients and color.
• Use Rotisserie Chicken: If you’re short on time, rotisserie chicken works beautifully here—just shred it and add it to the soup.
• Storage Tips: Leftovers store well in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the fridge. The soup may thicken slightly as it sits, but you can add a splash of broth when reheating to bring it back to its soupy goodness.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use a different type of pasta?
A1: Absolutely! Any small pasta like elbow macaroni, orzo, or even farfalle will work beautifully in this soup.

Q2: Can I make this soup ahead of time?
A2: Yes, this soup actually tastes even better the next day after the flavors have had time to meld together! Just store it in the fridge and reheat when you’re ready to enjoy.

Q3: How do I store leftovers?
A3: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat it in a pot over low heat or in the microwave.

Q4: Can I freeze this soup?
A4: Yes! Allow the soup to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stovetop.

Q5: How do I reheat this soup?
A5: Reheat the soup gently on the stovetop over low heat. Add a splash of broth or water to loosen it up if it thickens too much.

Q6: Can I double the recipe?
A6: Definitely! Just be sure to use a larger pot to accommodate the extra ingredients, and keep an eye on the simmering time.

Q7: Can I make this soup vegetarian?
A7: Yes, simply swap the chicken for extra vegetables or beans, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

Q8: What’s the best way to serve this soup?
A8: This soup is perfect as a main dish, but serving it with a fresh side salad, garlic bread, or croutons really enhances the meal.

Q9: Can I make this soup spicier?
A9: Yes, add more red pepper flakes, or even toss in a chopped chili pepper or a splash of hot sauce for an extra kick.

Q10: What type of chicken should I use?
A10: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs work perfectly in this soup. If you prefer a quicker version, rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut.

Conclusion

Italian Penicillin Soup is the perfect bowl of comfort, whether you’re cozying up on a cold evening or nursing a sore throat. With its hearty chicken, tender vegetables, and a touch of Italian flavor, it’s a soup that nourishes both body and soul. So, gather your ingredients, get your pot ready, and let this soup work its magic. Your taste buds—and your spirit—will thank you!

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