Italian Penicillin Soup – A Healing Bowl of Comfort and Flavor
There’s a reason every culture has a version of “healing soup.” In Italian kitchens, that bowl is warm, simple, and deeply comforting — something simmered slowly with love and brought to the table when someone needs care.
Often called Italian Penicillin Soup, this classic chicken-based soup is light yet nourishing, rich with aromatics, tender chicken, and delicate pasta. It’s the kind of soup that soothes sore throats, warms cold hands, and somehow makes everything feel a little better — whether you’re under the weather or just craving comfort.
Italian Penicillin Soup
Ingredients
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2 tbsp olive oil
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1 small onion, finely diced
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2 carrots, finely diced
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2 celery stalks, finely diced
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3 cloves garlic, minced
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6–8 cups chicken broth (homemade if possible)
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2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (rotisserie works well)
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½ cup small pasta (acini di pepe, ditalini, or orzo)
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1 large egg (optional, for egg-drop style richness)
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2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese (plus more for serving)
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Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
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Optional: fresh parsley or dill, chopped
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Optional: pinch of nutmeg (traditional in some versions)
Instructions
1) Build the Base
Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
Add onion, carrots, and celery. Cook 5–7 minutes, until soft and fragrant.
Add garlic and cook 30 seconds.
2) Simmer
Pour in chicken broth and bring to a gentle simmer.
Season lightly with salt and pepper.
3) Add Chicken & Pasta
Stir in shredded chicken and pasta.
Simmer 8–10 minutes, until pasta is tender.
4) Optional Egg Enrichment
If using egg:
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Beat egg with Parmesan cheese.
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Slowly drizzle into gently simmering soup while stirring continuously.
This creates delicate, silky egg strands.
5) Finish
Taste and adjust seasoning.
Add herbs and a pinch of nutmeg if using.
6) Serve
Ladle into bowls and finish with extra Parmesan and cracked black pepper.
Why This Soup Heals
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Warm broth hydrates and soothes
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Chicken provides protein without heaviness
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Garlic and aromatics support immunity
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Small pasta makes it comforting and gentle
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Egg + Parmesan add richness without cream
It’s simple food, done with care — exactly what comfort soup should be.
Tips for the Best Italian Penicillin Soup
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Use low-sodium broth so you control salt
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Keep pasta small and delicate
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Add pasta just before serving if storing leftovers
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Stir constantly when adding egg for smooth strands
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Finish with Parmesan for depth and warmth
Serving Suggestions
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With crusty bread or toast
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Add a squeeze of lemon for brightness
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Serve as a starter or light meal
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Pair with a simple green salad when feeling better
FAQ – Italian Penicillin Soup
Why is it called “Italian Penicillin”?
It’s a nickname — Italians believe this soup cures everything from colds to bad days.
Is this the same as Italian wedding soup?
Similar, but lighter. Wedding soup often includes meatballs; this focuses on broth and chicken.
Can I make it ahead of time?
Yes, but cook pasta separately if storing more than a day to prevent mushiness.
How long does it last in the fridge?
Up to 4 days in an airtight container.
