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–+ servings

Italian Penicillin Soup

A comforting and nourishing Italian-style chicken soup passed down through generations, known as 'Italian Penicillin' for its restorative properties when feeling under the weather. Features tender chicken, vegetables, and small pasta in a savory broth.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Course Main Course
Cuisine Italian
Servings 6-8 servings servings
Calories 280 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 2 tbsp Olive Oil
  • 1 medium Yellow Onion, finely chopped
  • 2 medium Carrots, peeled and diced
  • 2 stalks Celery Stalks, diced
  • 4 cloves Garlic, minced
  • 8 cups Chicken Broth, low-sodium
  • 1.5 lbs Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts
  • 1 tsp Dried Oregano
  • 1 tsp Dried Basil
  • 1 cup Small Pasta (acini de pepe, orzo, or ditalini)
  • 1/4 cup Fresh Parsley, chopped, for garnish
  • Grated Parmesan Cheese for serving
  • Salt and Black Pepper to taste

Instructions
 

  • Sauté the Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium heat. Add onion, carrots, and celery. Cook for 8-10 minutes until vegetables soften and onion is translucent.
  • Bloom the Garlic and Herbs: Add minced garlic, oregano, and basil. Stir constantly for 30-60 seconds until fragrant.
  • Simmer the Chicken: Pour in chicken broth and bring to a gentle simmer. Add whole chicken breasts and simmer for 15-20 minutes until cooked through.
  • Shred the Chicken: Remove chicken from pot and shred with two forks into bite-sized pieces.
  • Cook the Pasta: Return pot to simmer. Add shredded chicken and uncooked pasta. Cook for 8-10 minutes until pasta is tender.
  • Finish and Serve: Turn off heat. Stir in fresh parsley. Season with salt and pepper. Serve with grated Parmesan cheese.

Notes

Don't rush the soffritto - cook vegetables slowly for best flavor. Add Parmesan rind to broth for extra umami flavor. For leftovers, cook pasta separately to prevent mushiness. Use high-quality broth for best results. Can be made in slow cooker or Instant Pot.

Nutrition

Calories: 280kcalCarbohydrates: 25gProtein: 25gFat: 8gSaturated Fat: 2gCholesterol: 55mgSodium: 650mgFiber: 3gSugar: 4g
Keyword chicken, comfort food, pasta, soup
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