Introduction
Italian Penicillin Soup is the kind of recipe that feels like a warm embrace in a bowl. Often made when someone is feeling under the weather, this classic Italian-style soup is known for its soothing qualities, gentle flavors, and nourishing ingredients. I grew especially fond of this soup on chilly evenings or during cold season, when something simple and restorative is exactly what you crave. It is light yet filling, comforting without being heavy, and incredibly easy to digest.
What makes this soup so special is its simplicity. Tender chicken, delicate pasta, and a clear, flavorful broth come together in a way that feels almost medicinal in the best sense. Italians have long relied on variations of this soup as a home remedy, which is why it earned the affectionate nickname “penicillin soup.” Whether you are feeling under the weather or simply want a cozy, wholesome meal, this recipe delivers comfort, nourishment, and familiarity in every spoonful.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is gentle, nourishing, and easy to prepare. It uses simple ingredients, requires minimal effort, and delivers a soothing soup that is perfect for cold days, recovery meals, or light dinners.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
Chicken breast or thighs
Chicken provides protein and creates a flavorful, comforting base for the broth.
Chicken broth
Broth forms the foundation of the soup, delivering warmth and savory depth.
Carrots
Carrots add natural sweetness and gentle texture.
Celery
Celery contributes subtle flavor and classic soup aroma.
Onion
Onion builds the flavor base and adds mild sweetness.
Garlic
Garlic enhances the soup with warmth and is traditionally valued for its comforting qualities.
Pastina
Pastina is a tiny pasta that makes the soup especially soothing and easy to eat.
Olive oil
Olive oil adds richness and helps sauté the vegetables gently.
Salt
Salt balances and enhances all the flavors in the soup.
Black pepper
Black pepper adds mild warmth without overpowering the broth.
Fresh parsley
Parsley adds freshness and a clean finish before serving.
Grated Parmesan cheese
Parmesan adds savory depth and richness when sprinkled on top.
Directions
Begin by heating olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery, cooking gently until softened but not browned. Stir in the garlic and cook briefly until fragrant.
Add the chicken to the pot, followed by the chicken broth. Bring the soup to a gentle simmer and cook until the chicken is fully cooked and tender. Remove the chicken, shred it into bite-sized pieces, and return it to the pot.
Stir in the pastina and continue simmering until the pasta is tender. Season the soup with salt and black pepper to taste. Remove from heat and stir in fresh parsley.
Serve the soup hot, finished with a generous sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese.
Equipment Needed
Must-Have Tools to Get Rolling
Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand:
Silicone Spatula – Durable, heat-resistant silicone spatula perfect for mixing, scraping, and spreading. Gentle on non-stick cookware and easy to clean.
Large pot – You’ll need this to boil the whole cabbage head and soften the leaves.
large bowl –Spacious, durable large bowl ideal for mixing, serving, or food preparation. Made from sturdy material and easy to clean.
Sharp knife – For coring the cabbage and slicing out the thick stem in each leaf. A paring knife works best.
Mixing bowl – A big bowl makes it easier to combine your meat and rice filling evenly.
Cutting board – For prepping cabbage leaves and rolling them like a pro.
9×13-inch baking dish – Ideal size to fit your rolled cabbage leaves snugly and prevent them from unraveling.
knife – A sharp, durable kitchen knife perfect for slicing, chopping, and dicing with ease.
Servings and Timing
This recipe serves four people. Preparation takes about 15 minutes, and cooking time is approximately 30 minutes. The total time is around 45 minutes.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftover Italian Penicillin Soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth or water if the soup thickens.
Variations and Customizations
Italian Penicillin Soup is highly adaptable. You can add beaten egg at the end for extra richness, creating a texture similar to egg drop soup. Spinach or escarole can be added for extra nutrients. For a deeper flavor, use bone broth instead of regular chicken broth. You can also substitute rice for pastina if preferred. These variations allow you to adjust the soup while keeping its comforting essence.
Nutrition and Dietary Info
This soup provides lean protein from chicken, carbohydrates from pasta, and vitamins from vegetables. It is naturally low in fat and easy to digest, making it ideal for recovery meals and light dinners.
Expert Tips & Customizations
Simmer gently
Avoid boiling to keep the broth clear and delicate.
Shred the chicken finely
Smaller pieces make the soup easier to eat and more comforting.
Add pasta last
This prevents the pastina from overcooking.
FAQs
Why is it called Italian Penicillin Soup?
It is a nickname referring to its comforting, restorative qualities.
Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes, it tastes even better the next day.
What is pastina?
Pastina is very small pasta traditionally used in Italian soups.
Can I use rotisserie chicken?
Yes, add it near the end to avoid overcooking.
Is this soup good when sick?
Yes, it is light, warm, and easy to digest.
Can I freeze this soup?
Freezing is not recommended due to the pasta texture.
Can I add eggs?
Yes, beaten egg can be stirred in at the end.
What herbs work best?
Parsley is traditional, but thyme also works.
Is this soup kid-friendly?
Yes, it is very mild and comforting.
Can I make it gluten-free?
Yes, use gluten-free pasta or rice.
Conclusion
Italian Penicillin Soup is a timeless comfort recipe that delivers warmth, nourishment, and simplicity in every bowl. With tender chicken, gentle vegetables, and soothing broth, it is the kind of meal that feels both healing and familiar. Whether enjoyed during cold season or as a cozy everyday soup, this recipe is one you will return to whenever comfort is needed most.
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