There’s something timeless about a pot of soup simmering on the stove; especially when it’s not just hearty, but healing. Italian Penicillin Soup is my go-to remedy when cold weather hits or someone’s sniffling on the couch. I call it our “get well soon” soup. With garlic, lemon, fresh herbs, and nourishing broth, it’s the Italian version of chicken noodle, only with more flavor and a lot more soul. If you’re a fan of comforting bowls like this Creamy Tortellini Soup, trust me, this one hits even deeper.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Packed with Immune-Boosting Goodness
This isn’t your average soup, it’s a bowl full of ingredients known to support your immune system. Garlic, onions, parsley, lemon, and bone broth come together to form what’s often called “Italian penicillin” for a reason. Whether you’re under the weather or just need something comforting, this soup does it all.
Quick to Make, Easy to Savor
With just one pot and simple prep, this healing soup comes together fast; ideal for busy nights or low-energy days. You’ll find it rivals the heartiness of our Italian Sausage and Potato Soup, but with fewer ingredients and a lighter finish.
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Italian Penicillin Soup
Italian Penicillin Soup is the ultimate comfort food; filled with garlic, lemon, chicken, and herbs to warm and heal.
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Ingredients
2 tbsp olive oil
1 medium onion, chopped
4 garlic cloves, minced
2 carrots, diced
2 celery stalks, chopped
2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
6 cups chicken or bone broth
2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
2 tbsp parsley, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
1. Heat olive oil in a pot and sauté onion, carrots, and celery for 5–6 minutes.
2. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Pour in broth and bring to a boil. Simmer 15 minutes.
4. Add cooked chicken and lemon juice. Simmer 5 minutes.
5. Stir in parsley and season to taste.
Notes
Optional: Add cooked pasta, rice, or spinach to boost flavor and texture. Freezes well.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Soups
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 65mg
Ingredients for Italian Penicillin Soup
You likely have most of these ingredients in your pantry or fridge already, another reason to love this recipe.
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Olive oil | 2 tbsp |
| Onion (chopped) | 1 medium |
| Garlic (minced) | 4 cloves |
| Carrots (diced) | 2 |
| Celery (chopped) | 2 stalks |
| Shredded cooked chicken | 2 cups |
| Chicken or bone broth | 6 cups |
| Fresh lemon juice | 2 tbsp |
| Chopped parsley | 2 tbsp |
| Salt and pepper | To taste |
How to Make Italian Penicillin Soup
Step-by-Step for One-Pot Healing Comfort
- Sauté aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large pot. Add onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté 5–6 minutes.
- Add garlic: Stir in garlic and cook 1 more minute until fragrant.
- Simmer: Pour in broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes.
- Add chicken: Stir in cooked chicken and lemon juice. Simmer 5 minutes to warm through.
- Finish: Stir in parsley, taste, and season with salt and black pepper.
It’s a lot like our Crockpot Lasagna Soup in comfort level, but much faster to get on the table.
Tips and Variations
Make It Your Own
- Swap chicken for turkey or white beans for a vegetarian spin.
- Add a parmesan rind to simmer for deeper umami flavor.
- Stir in a handful of spinach at the end for extra nutrients.
Freezer-Friendly & Meal Prep Approved
This soup freezes beautifully. Just cool completely and store in portions. It also keeps well in the fridge for 4–5 days; great for batch cooking like our Creamy Alfredo Lasagna Soup.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes it “Italian penicillin”?
It’s the Italian spin on chicken soup; a natural remedy rich in garlic, lemon, and healing herbs. It’s comforting and helps fight cold symptoms thanks to its immune-supportive ingredients.
Can I make it in the slow cooker?
Yes! Sauté the onions and garlic first, then transfer everything to your slow cooker and cook on low for 4–5 hours. It works similarly to our Broccoli Cheddar Soup for hands-off prep.
What’s the best broth to use?
Bone broth adds the most nutritional benefit and depth, but any good-quality chicken broth will do.
Can I add pasta or rice?
Definitely. Add ½ cup of cooked orzo, ditalini, or even brown rice for extra comfort.
Final Thoughts
Italian Penicillin Soup is a simple, soul-soothing recipe every home cook should have in their back pocket. Whether you’re fighting off a cold or just need something cozy, this bowl has your back. Serve it with crusty bread or a light salad for the perfect feel-better meal. It’s warm, restorative, and full of love
For more easy and satisfying recipes, don’t hesitate to join me on Pinterest – where good food meets great company!
