There’s a wonderful comfort that envelops you as the steam rises from a pot of bubbling chicken soup, often affectionately dubbed “Italian Penicillin Soup.” The rich aroma of garlic mingling with sweet onions brings back memories of family gatherings clustered around the table. On days when the world feels overwhelming or when a chill lingers in the air, there’s nothing quite like this soul-warming bowl of goodness to restore your spirits.
I stumbled across this nourishing recipe when searching for a way to elevate my weeknight meals without breaking a sweat. The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity; using a rotisserie chicken not only saves time but also enriches the broth with a depth of flavor that is truly satisfying. Plus, with a few fresh herbs and a sprinkle of Parmigiano-Reggiano, it’s a delightful way to impress family and friends without much fuss. So grab your pot, and let’s dive into the art of crafting this wholesome, delicious Chicken Soup that might just become your new go-to comfort dish!
Why is Italian Penicillin Soup so comforting?
Nourishing and rich, this dish warms your soul as it fills your home with tantalizing aromas. Quick preparation using rotisserie chicken saves precious time for busy evenings. Fresh herbs and a touch of Parmigiano-Reggiano elevate the flavor profile, ensuring everyone will be asking for seconds. Versatile enough to customize with your favorite veggies, it’s a comforting classic that suits all palates. Treat yourself to this robust bowl of happiness that’s perfect for cozy nights or whenever you need a little extra love.
Italian Penicillin Soup Ingredients
For the Broth
• Lower-sodium chicken broth – A perfect base, this broth keeps it light yet flavorful.
• Chopped sweet onion – Adds a natural sweetness that enhances the overall taste.
• Peeled and coarsely chopped carrots – Their vibrant color and sweetness brighten the soup.
• Coarsely chopped celery ribs – Contributes a lovely crunch and aromatic flavor to the mix.
• Smashed and peeled garlic cloves – Infuses the soup with a rich, garlicky warmth.
• Kosher salt – Balance the flavors while keeping the soup healthy and delicious.
• Thyme sprigs – Fresh thyme provides aromatic depth, enhancing that cozy feeling.
• Fresh bay leaves – These add a subtle complexity to the broth.
• Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese rind – A secret ingredient that enriches the soup with umami.
For the Pasta and Chicken
• Uncooked pastina pasta – Tiny pasta that cooks quickly, adding heartiness to the soup.
• Shredded rotisserie chicken – Saves time and brings a wonderful depth of flavor, making this Italian Penicillin Soup truly comforting.
For Garnish
• Fresh flat-leaf parsley leaves – A pop of freshness that brightens the dish before serving.
How to Make Italian Penicillin Soup
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Combine all the base ingredients in a large pot. Pour in the lower-sodium chicken broth, followed by the sweet onion, carrots, celery, garlic, salt, thyme sprigs, bay leaves, and cheese rind.
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Bring to a boil. Heat on medium-high until the mixture bubbles, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cook until the vegetables are tender, around 20-25 minutes.
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Add pasta. Stir in the uncooked pastina and cook according to package instructions, typically around 8-10 minutes, until the pasta is al dente.
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Incorporate chicken. Gently fold in the shredded rotisserie chicken, cooking just until heated through, about 3-5 minutes.
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Finish up. Remove from heat and carefully discard the bay leaves and cheese rind. Garnish your sumptuous soup with fresh parsley before diving in!
Optional: Consider adding a sprinkle of extra Parmigiano-Reggiano for delightful creaminess.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Italian Penicillin Soup?
There’s nothing quite like wrapping up a warm bowl of homemade goodness with a few delightful side dishes to complete your cozy meal.
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Crusty Bread: A warm, crusty loaf is perfect for soaking up every drop of delicious broth while adding a satisfying crunch to each bite.
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Garden Salad: A fresh garden salad with a zesty vinaigrette balances the richness of the soup, bringing a pop of color and nutrition to your table.
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Cheesy Garlic Breadsticks: These delightful bites add gooey, cheesy goodness and a hint of garlic, making for an irresistible pairing.
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Steamed Green Beans: Bright and crisp, steamed green beans add a lovely crunch while their mild flavor complements the heartiness of the soup.
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Parmesan Crisps: For a unique twist, serve these crunchy, cheesy bites as a playful appetizer to elevate the Italian theme.
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Red Wine: A glass of mellow red wine adds warmth and depth, enhancing the overall dining experience with its complex flavors.
Italian Penicillin Soup Variations
Feel free to explore these exciting twists to make your Italian Penicillin Soup uniquely yours!
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Gluten-Free: Substitute pastina with gluten-free pasta or quinoa for a hearty alternative. It provides the same satisfying texture without gluten.
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Vegetable-Loaded: Add your favorite seasonal vegetables like zucchini or spinach. This not only boosts nutrition but adds beautiful color and flavor!
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Spicy Kick: Toss in a pinch of red pepper flakes or some diced jalapeños during cooking. The warmth will create a delightful contrast to the soup’s comforting base.
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Creamy Option: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of sour cream just before serving. It adds a luscious creaminess that complements the flavors beautifully.
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Herbaceous Boost: Experiment with fresh basil or dill alongside thyme for a fresh, aromatic twist. Each herb brings its own character to the soup.
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Plant-Based Version: Swap the chicken for chickpeas or lentils, and use vegetable broth instead. You’ll achieve a hearty and nourishing vegan version that’s equally comforting.
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Asiago Twist: Replace Parmigiano-Reggiano with grated Asiago cheese for a sharper flavor. The richness of Asiago adds a fantastic depth that lingers delightfully.
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Pasta Variety: Try other small pastas like orzo or ditalini. Changing the shape can transform the experience while keeping it beautifully satisfying.
Expert Tips for Italian Penicillin Soup
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Use Quality Broth: Opt for a lower-sodium chicken broth to control saltiness while still enjoying rich flavor. It’s the heart of your Italian Penicillin Soup!
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Mind the Vegetables: Cut vegetables into uniform sizes for even cooking. Remember to sauté them just a bit in olive oil first for an extra flavor boost!
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Don’t Overcook Pasta: Follow package instructions closely for the pastina; cooking it al dente prevents mushiness in your comforting soup.
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Fresh Herbs Matter: Always use fresh thyme and parsley, as their vibrant flavors elevate the soup. Dried herbs can be more muted and less aromatic.
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Save the Rind: Never skip the Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese rind; it adds a satisfying umami note that makes your Italian Penicillin Soup unforgettable!
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Customize with Love: Feel free to add any leftover veggies or beans for extra nutrition and flavor—you can make this dish your own!
Make Ahead Options
These Italian Penicillin Soup preparations are a game-changer for busy home cooks! You can chop your vegetables (sweet onion, carrots, and celery), and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to save time on hectic weekdays. If you want to prep even further, the broth can be made and refrigerated up to 24 hours in advance; just ensure it’s cooled completely before transferring it to an airtight container. When you’re ready to enjoy your comforting soup, reheat the broth, add the pastina and shredded chicken, and finish cooking according to the directions. This way, you’ll still savor that delightful flavor and warmth without the last-minute rush!
Storage Tips for Italian Penicillin Soup
Fridge: Store leftover Italian Penicillin Soup in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Make sure to cool it down to room temperature before refrigerating to maintain freshness.
Freezer: To freeze, allow the soup to cool completely. Transfer it to a freezer-safe container and it can last for up to 3 months. Leave some space at the top as it may expand when frozen.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge or use the microwave. Heat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth or water to rehydrate the pasta for optimal texture.
Customization: If you choose to customize your soup before storing, consider freezing without pasta, as it may become mushy. Add cooked pastina just before serving.
Italian Penicillin Soup Recipe FAQs
How do I select the best ingredients for my Italian Penicillin Soup?
Absolutely! When choosing your vegetables, look for firm, vibrant carrots and celery without dark spots or soft spots. Fresh sweet onions should feel heavy for their size and have a papery skin. For the rotisserie chicken, ensure it’s juicy and tender, a true time-saver! Selecting fresh herbs is key; they should be bright green, fragrant, and not wilted. Your choices will elevate the overall flavor.
How should I store leftover Italian Penicillin Soup?
Very simply! Transfer your leftover soup into an airtight container and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. It’s important to let it cool to room temperature first—this helps maintain its freshness and flavor. Just make sure to reheat gently to enjoy it again!
Can I freeze Italian Penicillin Soup?
Absolutely! To freeze, allow your soup to cool completely before pouring it into a freezer-safe container. Do leave some room at the top, as it may expand when frozen. It can stay fresh for up to 3 months! When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it overnight in the fridge and gently reheat on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth to restore its original texture.
What should I do if my pasta becomes mushy in the soup?
Great question! If your pasta does become overly soft, try these tips to salvage your dish. If it’s not too late, avoid cooking the pasta in the soup—boil it separately until al dente, then add it just before serving. If you’ve already made it mushy, you might consider blending the soup slightly to create a creamy texture and serve it as a hearty, comforting puree.
Is this soup suitable for people with dietary restrictions?
Very! This Italian Penicillin Soup can easily be adapted for various dietary needs. For those with allergies, make sure to check for gluten-free pastina options. You can also use vegetable broth to make it vegetarian-friendly. Always ensure that any additions, like extra chicken or vegetables, match your guests’ dietary preferences. Enjoy creating a dish that warms everyone’s heart!
Heartwarming Italian Penicillin Soup for Cozy Nights
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Combine all the base ingredients in a large pot. Pour in the lower-sodium chicken broth, followed by the sweet onion, carrots, celery, garlic, salt, thyme sprigs, bay leaves, and cheese rind.
- Bring to a boil. Heat on medium-high until the mixture bubbles, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cook until the vegetables are tender, around 20-25 minutes.
- Add pasta. Stir in the uncooked pastina and cook according to package instructions, typically around 8-10 minutes, until the pasta is al dente.
- Incorporate chicken. Gently fold in the shredded rotisserie chicken, cooking just until heated through, about 3-5 minutes.
- Finish up. Remove from heat and carefully discard the bay leaves and cheese rind. Garnish your sumptuous soup with fresh parsley before diving in!