Name: Ultimate Italian Penicillin Soup
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 whole chicken (about 3-4 lbs), or 4-6 bone-in chicken breasts or thighs; 2 tbsp olive oil; 1 large onion, diced; 3 garlic cloves, minced; 2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced; 2 celery stalks, diced; 1 large zucchini, diced; 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained; 1 tsp dried oregano; 1 tsp dried thyme; 4 cups chicken broth (low-sodium); 2 cups water; Salt and pepper, to taste; 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (optional); 1 lemon, for zest and juice; 1 cup small pasta (optional, such as ditalini or orzo)

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Why Make This Recipe

Ultimate Italian Penicillin Soup is more than just a meal; it’s a warm hug in a bowl. This comforting soup not only satisfies your hunger but also helps you feel better during cold days or when you’re under the weather. With flavorful ingredients and a rich broth, it brings the soothing qualities of a homemade remedy traditional to Italian cooking. Perfect for sharing or enjoying alone, this soup warms both the body and soul.

How to Make Ultimate Italian Penicillin Soup

Ingredients:

1 whole chicken (about 3-4 lbs), or 4-6 bone-in chicken breasts or thighs
2 tbsp olive oil
1 large onion, diced
3 garlic cloves, minced
2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
2 celery stalks, diced
1 large zucchini, diced
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp dried thyme
4 cups chicken broth (low-sodium)
2 cups water
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
1 lemon, for zest and juice
1 cup small pasta (optional, such as ditalini or orzo)

Directions:

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
Add the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté until the onion is translucent.
Add the carrots, celery, and zucchini. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
If using a whole chicken, place it in the pot. If using chicken breasts or thighs, add them now.
Pour in the drained diced tomatoes, oregano, thyme, chicken broth, and water. Stir well.
Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and let simmer for about 1 hour, or until the chicken is cooked through.
If using small pasta, add it during the last 10 minutes of cooking.
Once the chicken is cooked, carefully remove it from the pot. Shred the meat and return it to the soup.
Add the lemon juice and zest for a burst of freshness.
Garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!

How to Serve Ultimate Italian Penicillin Soup

Serve this hearty soup in large bowls, making sure to include chunks of chicken and plenty of vegetables. A sprinkle of fresh parsley on top adds a nice touch. For a classic pairing, enjoy it with a slice of crusty bread or some garlic bread on the side.

How to Store Ultimate Italian Penicillin Soup

Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep for about 3-4 days. If you want to store it longer, freeze it in portions. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Tips to Make Ultimate Italian Penicillin Soup

If you prefer a richer flavor, roast the chicken before adding it to the pot.
Use homemade chicken broth for an extra layer of taste.
Adjust the vegetables based on what you have on hand. Spinach or kale can be great additions!

Variation

You can make this soup vegetarian by omitting the chicken and using vegetable broth instead. Toss in your favorite plant-based proteins like chickpeas or lentils for added nutrition.

FAQs

Can I use pre-cooked chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can add pre-cooked chicken. Just skip the step of cooking the chicken in the pot and add it during the last 10-15 minutes of cooking to heat through.

What if I don’t have fresh herbs?
You can use dried herbs instead—just use about one-third of the amount required for fresh herbs.

Can I add other vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to add any vegetables you enjoy, such as green beans, peas, or bell peppers. The soup is very versatile!