Italian Penicillin Soup: 7 Reasons It’s the Ultimate Comfort Food

Feeling under the weather or craving something warm, cozy, and healing? Studies show that comfort foods not only lift your mood but may also help reduce stress hormones — and few dishes deliver that emotional boost like Italian Penicillin Soup.

This classic comfort meal combines tender chicken, aromatic herbs, and soothing broth — a Mediterranean twist on the age-old chicken soup remedy. More than just food, Italian Penicillin Soup is nourishment for both body and soul.

So, why do Italians swear by this “cure-in-a-bowl”? Here are 7 reasons why Italian Penicillin Soup deserves a permanent spot in your comfort food collection.

Ingredients List

The beauty of Italian Penicillin Soup lies in its simplicity — fresh, wholesome ingredients that come together in a deliciously balanced bowl.

Here’s what you’ll need:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil (extra virgin for richer flavor)
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 cup shredded cooked chicken (rotisserie or homemade)
• ½ cup orzo pasta (or substitute with ditalini or small shells)
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Juice of ½ lemon
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• Freshly grated Parmesan cheese for garnish

Substitution Tips:

• For gluten-free options, swap orzo with quinoa or rice.
• Vegetarians can replace chicken with chickpeas or white beans for a protein-packed alternative.
• For extra creaminess, add a splash of heavy cream or a spoonful of Greek yogurt.

The key? Fresh ingredients — they give Italian Penicillin Soup its signature depth of flavor.

Timing

This comforting meal is ready faster than most homemade soups!

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour

That’s 20% quicker than traditional chicken soup recipes, meaning you can enjoy homemade comfort without spending your entire evening in the kitchen.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Sauté the base

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion, celery, and carrots. Cook until softened (about 5 minutes). Stir in garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant — this is your aromatic foundation.

Step 2: Build the broth

Pour in the chicken broth, oregano, and Italian seasoning. Bring to a gentle boil. The blend of herbs infuses the broth with the earthy aroma that defines Italian Penicillin Soup.

Step 3: Add the chicken

Stir in the shredded chicken. Use rotisserie for convenience or homemade poached chicken for freshness. Let simmer for 20 minutes so flavors meld beautifully.

Step 4: Cook the orzo

Add orzo (or your chosen pasta). Simmer until tender, about 10 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Step 5: Brighten it up

Turn off the heat. Add lemon juice, parsley, and a sprinkle of Parmesan. These ingredients lift the flavors, giving the soup its iconic Italian finish.

Step 6: Serve and enjoy

Ladle into bowls, top with extra Parmesan, and drizzle a few drops of olive oil for a restaurant-quality presentation.

Nutritional Information

This Italian Penicillin Soup provides a balanced mix of protein, healthy fats, and complex carbs, making it both nourishing and satisfying.

Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe

If you want to keep the comforting flavor but make it even healthier, try these swaps:

• Use bone broth instead of regular broth for added collagen and gut health.
• Skip the orzo and add cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.
• Add greens like kale or spinach for extra vitamins.
• Reduce sodium by using unsalted broth and seasoning with fresh herbs instead.

Small adjustments can make your Italian Penicillin Soup suitable for gluten-free, low-carb, or high-protein diets.

Serving Suggestions

This soup pairs perfectly with:

• Warm crusty Italian bread or garlic toast for dipping.
• A crisp Caesar salad or roasted vegetables for balance.
• A glass of light white wine or sparkling water with lemon for a refreshing touch.

💡 Pro tip: Serve it in a deep bowl with fresh parsley and Parmesan for that cozy, trattoria-style vibe.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even simple recipes can go wrong — here’s how to get it right:

1. Overcooking the pasta: Orzo continues cooking in hot broth. Slightly undercook it to keep it al dente.
2. Skipping the lemon juice: It brightens the flavor and balances richness.
3. Not using enough seasoning: Taste as you go — bland soup is the enemy of comfort food.
4. Boiling too hard: A gentle simmer ensures your broth stays clear, not cloudy.
5. Neglecting fresh herbs: Dried herbs are fine, but fresh parsley adds a fresh aroma and taste.

Storing Tips for the Recipe

Refrigeration:

• Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

Freezing:

• For long-term storage, freeze for up to 3 months.
• To avoid mushy pasta, store the orzo separately and add when reheating.

Reheating Tip:

• Warm on the stovetop over low heat. Add a splash of broth or water to restore texture.

Conclusion

Italian Penicillin Soup isn’t just food — it’s comfort, care, and culture in a single bowl. With tender chicken, soothing broth, and bold Italian flavors, it’s the perfect pick-me-up for body and soul.

✨ Try this recipe today and share your experience in the comments! Don’t forget to subscribe for more comforting, easy-to-follow recipes like this one.

FAQs

1. Why is it called Italian Penicillin Soup?
Because it’s believed to have healing properties — like “Jewish Penicillin” (chicken soup) — but infused with Italian herbs and Mediterranean flair.

2. Can I make Italian Penicillin Soup vegetarian?
Yes! Replace chicken with chickpeas or cannellini beans and use vegetable broth.

3. What’s the best pasta to use?
Orzo is classic, but ditalini, small shells, or even broken spaghetti work well.

4. Can I make it in a slow cooker?
Absolutely. Combine ingredients (except orzo and lemon), cook on low for 6 hours, then add pasta 30 minutes before serving.

5. How can I make it spicier?
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a few drops of chili oil for an Italian kick.