There’s nothing quite like the aroma of a simmering pot of Italian Penicillin Soup to warm the soul on a chilly day. I can still remember the first time my mom made this recipe – the comforting scent of garlic and herbs would fill the entire house, and we’d all gather around the table, eager to dig in. Even as an adult, that familiar flavor takes me right back to those cozy childhood memories.
Why This Italian Penicillin Soup Recipe Will Become Your Go-To
The Secret Behind Perfect Italian Penicillin Soup
What makes this Italian Penicillin Soup recipe so special is the perfect balance of flavors and textures. The key lies in the slow-simmered broth, which develops a rich, complex taste by infusing the chicken, vegetables, and herbs over time. But it’s not just about the broth – the combination of tender chicken, al dente veggies, and the pop of acidity from the tomatoes creates a symphony of comfort in every spoonful.
Essential Ingredients You’ll Need
To make this Italian Penicillin Soup, you’ll need a few simple, wholesome ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: This forms the aromatic base, gently sautéing the veggies to bring out their natural sweetness.
- 1 onion, diced: The onion adds depth and savory notes to the broth.
- 3 carrots, peeled and sliced: Carrots lend a naturally sweet crunch to the soup.
- 3 celery stalks, sliced: Celery brings a refreshing, slightly bitter element to balance the flavors.
- 4 garlic cloves, minced: Garlic is the backbone of Italian cuisine, infusing the entire soup with its warm, pungent aroma.
- 6 cups chicken broth: A high-quality chicken broth serves as the foundation, providing a rich, satisfying base.
- 2 cups shredded cooked chicken: Tender chicken adds heartiness and protein to make this a complete meal.
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes: The tomatoes provide a touch of acidity to brighten up the soup.
- 2 bay leaves: Bay leaves lend a subtle, earthy flavor that permeates the entire dish.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano: Oregano is a classic Italian herb that adds fragrance and depth.
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme: Thyme complements the oregano, creating a harmonious blend of aromatics.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Seasoning is crucial to bringing out the best in all the ingredients.
- Fresh parsley, for garnish: A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a final touch of brightness and color.
Step-by-Step Italian Penicillin Soup Instructions
Preparing Your Italian Penicillin Soup
With a prep time of just 15 minutes and a cook time of 30 minutes, this Italian Penicillin Soup comes together in a total of 45 minutes. All you’ll need is a large pot or Dutch oven to bring this comforting dish to life.
1- Start by heating the olive oil in your pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes, until it becomes fragrant and slightly translucent.
2- Next, add the sliced carrots and celery to the pot. Sauté for an additional 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables begin to soften.
3- Toss in the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes, until the aroma fills the air. Be careful not to let the garlic burn, as that can impart a bitter flavor.
4- Pour in the 6 cups of chicken broth, making sure to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. The broth should immediately start to simmer.
5- Add the shredded cooked chicken, diced tomatoes, bay leaves, dried oregano, and dried thyme. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6- Let the soup simmer for 20-25 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the chicken to become even more tender. Ladle the Italian Penicillin Soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley for a vibrant finishing touch.
Pro Tips for Success
- Use high-quality chicken broth for maximum flavor. Look for low-sodium options to control the salt content.
- Shred the chicken by hand or with two forks for a more rustic, homemade texture.
- Adjust the seasoning to your taste preferences, adding more salt, pepper, or herbs as desired.
- For a heartier meal, serve the Italian Penicillin Soup with crusty bread or a side salad.
Serving and Storing Your Italian Penicillin Soup
Perfect Pairings for Italian Penicillin Soup
This Italian Penicillin Soup recipe serves 6 generous portions, making it the perfect dish for a cozy family dinner or a casual gathering with friends. To round out the meal, consider serving it with a fresh green salad dressed in a light vinaigrette. For beverages, a crisp white wine or a warm cup of herbal tea would complement the flavors beautifully.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
One of the best things about this Italian Penicillin Soup is that it reheats and stores incredibly well. To enjoy it later, simply let the soup cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days. When you’re ready to serve, reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave until piping hot.
For even longer storage, the soup can be frozen for up to 3 months. Let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. The flavors will actually intensify the longer it sits, making it a perfect make-ahead meal for busy weeknights.
Variations and Dietary Adaptations for Italian Penicillin Soup
Creative Italian Penicillin Soup Variations
While this recipe is already a tried-and-true classic, there are plenty of ways to put your own spin on it. For a heartier version, you can add diced potatoes or small pasta shapes like ditalini or orzo. In the summertime, swap in fresh basil and zucchini for a lighter, more vibrant take. You can also experiment with different protein sources, like shredded turkey or plant-based meat alternatives.
Making Italian Penicillin Soup Diet-Friendly
To make this Italian Penicillin Soup suitable for various dietary needs, you have a few easy options. For a gluten-free version, simply omit the pasta or use gluten-free noodles. For a vegan or vegetarian approach, replace the chicken broth with a high-quality vegetable broth and use tofu or chickpeas in place of the shredded chicken. To reduce the carb count, skip the potatoes or pasta and serve the soup over a bed of zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use a different type of protein in this Italian Penicillin Soup recipe?
A: Absolutely! While the recipe calls for shredded cooked chicken, you can easily substitute turkey, beef, or even plant-based proteins like tofu or chickpeas.
Q: How long does it take to make this Italian Penicillin Soup?
A: The total time for this recipe is 45 minutes, with 15 minutes of prep time and 30 minutes of cook time.
Q: Can I make this Italian Penicillin Soup ahead of time?
A: Yes, this soup actually gets better the longer the flavors have a chance to meld. You can refrigerate it for up to 4 days or freeze it for up to 3 months.
Q: How many servings does this Italian Penicillin Soup recipe make?
A: This recipe yields 6 generous servings, making it perfect for feeding a crowd or enjoying leftovers throughout the week.
Q: What should I do if my Italian Penicillin Soup comes out too thin or too thick?
A: If the soup is too thin, you can simmer it for a bit longer to allow some of the liquid to evaporate and the broth to thicken up. If it’s too thick, simply add a splash more broth or water to reach your desired consistency.
Italian Penicillin Soup
- Total Time: 45
- Yield: 6 servings
Description
This comforting Italian Penicillin Soup is a quick and easy dish that’s perfect for chilly days. Packed with tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and a flavorful broth, it’s a nourishing and satisfying meal that will warm you from the inside out.
Ingredients
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 carrots, peeled and sliced
– 3 celery stalks, sliced
– 4 garlic cloves, minced
– 6 cups chicken broth
– 2 cups shredded cooked chicken
– 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
– 2 bay leaves
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the onion, carrots, and celery, and sauté for 5-7 minutes until softened.
3. Stir in the garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
4. Pour in the chicken broth, diced tomatoes, bay leaves, oregano, and thyme. Bring the mixture to a boil.
5. Reduce the heat and let the soup simmer for 15-20 minutes, until the vegetables are tender.
6. Stir in the shredded chicken and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve the Italian Penicillin Soup hot, garnished with fresh parsley.
Notes
This soup is the perfect remedy for cold and flu season! For a heartier meal, serve with crusty bread or a side salad. You can also add other vegetables, such as spinach or kale, for extra nutrition.
- Prep Time: 15
- Cook Time: 30
- Category: Main Dishes
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Conclusion
This Italian Penicillin Soup is the ultimate comfort food that’s sure to become a new family favorite. With its rich, flavorful broth, tender chicken, and hearty vegetables, it’s a dish that will warm you from the inside out. Whether you’re craving a cozy meal on a chilly day or looking for a delicious way to use up leftover chicken, this recipe is a true winner. So, what are you waiting for? Go ahead and give this Italian Penicillin Soup a try – I promise it’ll become your new go-to comfort dish in no time. Don’t forget to let me know how it turns out in the comments below!
