Go Back
Italian Penicillin Soup Recipe

Italian Penicillin Soup (Classic Comfort Chicken Soup)

A classic Italian comfort soup made with chicken, vegetables, herbs, and small pasta. Often called “Italian penicillin,” this nourishing soup is light, flavorful, and perfect for cold days or when you need a comforting homemade meal.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 4 people
Course: Main Course, Soup
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 320

Ingredients
  

Base Ingredients
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 large onion, finely diced
3 carrots, sliced
3 celery stalks, chopped
4 garlic cloves, minced
8 cups low-sodium chicken broth
1 bone-in, skin-on chicken breast (or thighs)
2 bay leaves
Pasta & Seasoning
1 cup small pasta (ditalini, orzo, or small shells)
1 teaspoon dried oregano
½ teaspoon dried thyme
Salt, to taste
Black pepper, to taste
Optional: pinch of red pepper flakes
Finishing Touches
Fresh lemon juice, to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped
Grated Parmigiano-Reggiano (optional)

Equipment

  • Large soup pot
  • Cutting board
  • Knife
  • Wooden spoon
  • Ladle

Method
 

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion, carrots, and celery. Cook for 6–8 minutes until softened.
    Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
      Pour in chicken broth and add chicken, bay leaves, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a gentle boil.
        Reduce heat and simmer partially covered for 25–30 minutes.
          Remove chicken, discard skin and bones, and shred the meat.
            Return chicken to the pot and add pasta. Cook until pasta is al dente.
              Remove bay leaves. Stir in lemon juice and fresh parsley. Adjust seasoning.
                Serve hot with olive oil and grated cheese if desired.

                  Notes

                  • For best texture, cook pasta separately if planning to freeze the soup.
                  • Chicken thighs give a richer flavor than breast.
                  • Lemon juice at the end is essential for brightness.
                  • Soup tastes even better the next day.