This warm Italian Penicillin Soup is a cozy bowl filled with tasty chicken, carrots, and noodles. It’s perfect for when you need a pick-me-up!
I love how easy this soup is to make—it comes together quickly and fills the house with the best smells. Grab a spoon and enjoy a comforting bowl of goodness! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Olive Oil: This is perfect for sautéing as it adds a nice flavor. If you’re out, you can use vegetable oil or butter instead, but keep in mind they might change the flavor slightly.
Onion: A small onion gives great depth. If you prefer milder flavors, you can substitute with shallots or even leeks.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is key for flavor. If you’re out, powdered garlic can work in a pinch, but fresh is best for that aromatic quality.
Chicken Broth: Homemade is great, but store-bought works well too. Low-sodium broth is fantastic if you’re watching your salt intake. You can also use vegetable broth for a lighter soup.
Pasta: I love using pastina or orzo for their small size, but other small pasta like ditalini or tiny shells will also do the trick. For a gluten-free option, use rice or a gluten-free pasta.
Cooked Chicken: Rotisserie chicken is my favorite for convenience, but any leftover chicken will work great, or you can use canned chicken for a quick option.
How Can I Enhance the Flavor of My Soup?
To make the most of this soup, use fresh herbs and spices. Here’s how:
- Always start with a base of sautéed onions, carrots, and celery (the classic mirepoix) for a deeper flavor.
- Don’t rush the sautéing step; let them caramelize a bit to bring out their sweetness.
- Add garlic last when sautéing to prevent it from burning and becoming bitter.
- Season as you go—taste the broth before adding the pasta and adjust with salt and pepper.
- Finish with fresh herbs, which brighten the flavor just before serving. Lemon juice adds a refreshing kick!
Taking these steps can really elevate your Italian Penicillin Soup, making it a beloved dish in your home! Enjoy every spoonful!
How to Make Italian Penicillin Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 medium carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 6 cups chicken broth (preferably homemade or low sodium)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 cup small pasta (pastina or orzo work well)
- 2 cups cooked chicken (finely shredded or diced)
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- Optional: Parmesan cheese for garnish
- Optional: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice for brightness
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Italian Penicillin Soup takes about 15 minutes to prep and 30 minutes to cook, making it a quick yet satisfying meal. In total, you’ll be enjoying this hearty soup on your table in about 45 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Vegetables:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté these vegetables for about 5-7 minutes until they become soft and fragrant. This is your base for flavor!
2. Add Garlic:
Next, stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute. You want to make sure the garlic gets fragrant but doesn’t burn, as this can make it taste bitter.
3. Build the Broth:
Pour in the chicken broth and sprinkle in the dried oregano and basil. Season your soup with a pinch of salt and black pepper. Stir everything together until mixed well.
4. Simmer:
Bring the soup to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 10 minutes. This will help the flavors blend beautifully and soften the vegetables.
5. Cook the Pasta and Chicken:
After simmering, add the small pasta and the cooked chicken to the pot. Continue to simmer for another 8-10 minutes, or until the pasta is cooked to your liking. Keep an eye on it so it doesn’t get too soft!
6. Final Touches:
Taste your soup and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Stir in the freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and flavor!
7. Serve:
If you like, squeeze a bit of fresh lemon juice into the soup for a hint of brightness. Ladle your soup into bowls, and if desired, sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese for extra flavor. Enjoy your warm bowl of Italian Penicillin Soup!
With wholesome ingredients like chicken, vegetables, and fragrant herbs, this soup is truly nourishing and a perfect dish for cozy evenings. Enjoy every spoonful of this wonderful comfort food!
Can I Use Rotisserie Chicken for This Soup?
Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver and adds a delicious flavor to the soup. Just shred or dice the meat and add it in with the pasta.
Can I Make This Soup Vegetarian?
Yes! Simply substitute the chicken broth with vegetable broth and skip the chicken. You can add extra veggies or some beans for protein.
How Do I Store Leftover Soup?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it in a pot on the stove or in the microwave until heated through.
Can I Use Different Pasta Shapes?
Definitely! While pastina or orzo are ideal, you can use any small pasta like ditalini, or tiny shells. Just make sure to adjust cooking time as needed for different pasta shapes.