There’s something incredibly comforting about a steaming bowl of soup that brings warmth to the soul, especially on a chilly evening when the wind howls outside. I remember the first time I discovered this Italian Penicillin Soup—its rich aroma enveloped my kitchen, swirling together the familiar scents of garlic, thyme, and bubbling chicken broth. It hit me unexpectedly, a delightful remedy to the mundane fast-food cycle I found myself in.
This Chicken Pastina Soup, affectionately dubbed Italian Penicillin by my friends, not only warms the heart but is also a breeze to whip up. With just a handful of ingredients—like rotisserie chicken that does half the work for you—and the satisfying bite of pastina, it’s a dish that simplifies the dinner routine while delivering flavors that dance on your palate. Perfect for soothing a long day or impressing unexpected guests, this soup is as versatile as it is inviting. Let’s dive into this easy, wholesome recipe that’s sure to become a staple in your home!
Why is Italian Penicillin Soup a must-try?
Comforting warmth: A steaming bowl of Italian Penicillin Soup is like a hug for your soul, perfect for cozy nights.
Easy preparation: With simple steps and ingredients, this soup is a fast favorite for busy weeknights.
Flavorful balance: The rich chicken broth combined with fresh herbs creates an irresistible taste.
Health-conscious choice: Made with lower-sodium broth and fresh veggies, it’s a nutritious alternative to fast food.
Crowd-pleaser: Serve it at gatherings, and watch as it disappears—everyone loves a good soup!
Versatile delight: Tailor it to your liking by adding extra veggies or spices, making it uniquely yours.
Italian Penicillin Soup Ingredients
• Get ready to create this cozy classic with just a few simple ingredients.
For the Soup Base
• Lower-sodium chicken broth – A heartwarming foundation for the flavors to shine.
• Chopped sweet onion – It adds a gentle sweetness that enhances the soup.
• Peeled and coarsely chopped carrots – For a touch of earthiness and vibrant color.
• Celery ribs, coarsely chopped – Adds a lovely crunch and depth to the flavor.
• Smashed and peeled garlic cloves – A must for that aromatic punch!
For Seasoning
• Kosher salt – Enhances all the flavors; adjust to taste.
• Thyme sprigs – Brings an aromatic herbal touch synonymous with cozy comforts.
• Fresh bay leaves – Infuses the soup with a subtle, fragrant warmth.
For the Richness
• Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese rind – Imparts a rich, umami depth to the broth.
• Grated cheese for garnish – Perfect for finishing touches and extra flavor!
For the Pasta and Protein
• Uncooked pastina pasta – Tiny yet mighty, it soaks up all the delicious flavors.
• Shredded rotisserie chicken – A time-saving superstar ingredient that adds protein.
For Garnish
• Fresh flat-leaf parsley leaves – Brightens up the dish and adds a pop of color.
With these ingredients at the ready, you’re one step closer to enjoying a bowl of delightful Italian Penicillin Soup!
How to Make Italian Penicillin Soup
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Combine Ingredients: In a large pot, combine the chicken broth, sweet onion, chopped carrots, celery, smashed garlic, kosher salt, thyme sprigs, and bay leaves. Stir gently to mix.
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Boil and Simmer: Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat and let it simmer until the vegetables are tender, about 15-20 minutes.
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Cook Pastina: Add the pastina pasta to the pot and cook according to package instructions, usually around 6-8 minutes, or until al dente.
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Incorporate Chicken and Cheese: Stir in the shredded rotisserie chicken and the Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese rind. Allow everything to heat through for about 5 minutes.
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Discard Herbs: Remove the pot from heat and carefully discard the thyme sprigs and bay leaves. Enjoy the fragrant blend of flavors!
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Serve with Style: Ladle the hot soup into bowls and finish by garnishing with grated cheese and fresh parsley leaves for a delightful presentation.
Optional: Add a drizzle of olive oil for extra richness!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Italian Penicillin Soup?
Cozying up with a bowl of Italian Penicillin Soup invites some delightful pairings to elevate your meal experience.
- Crusty Garlic Bread: Perfect for dipping, it adds a crunchy contrast to the silky soup. The rich garlic flavor complements the herbs beautifully.
- Simple Arugula Salad: Tossed with olive oil and lemon, this fresh salad brightens every bite and balances the soup’s warmth.
- Parmesan Risotto: Creamy and rich, this elegant side enhances the Italian theme and provides a luscious texture to enjoy alongside the soup.
- Steamed Broccoli: A light and healthy addition, the mild bitterness perfectly offsets the soup’s richness while adding a pop of color.
- Lemon Fizz: A refreshing sparkling lemonade or lemon-infused drink cleanses the palate and enhances the soup’s comforting flavors.
- Homemade Biscotti: For dessert, these crunchy, lightly sweet cookies are great for dipping in your coffee, rounding out the meal perfectly.
- Stuffed Peppers: Filled with rice and herbs, these can complement the soup’s flavor while adding a hearty option to the table.
- Cheesy Cauliflower Bake: Melty and indulgent, this dish offers another layer of creaminess, making each bite with the soup a wonderful experience.
- Peppery Prosecco: This sparkling wine adds a light fizz and slight sweetness, providing a perfect contrast to the savory soup.
With these suggestions, you’re all set to create a truly memorable meal around your warm, comforting Italian Penicillin Soup!
How to Store and Freeze Italian Penicillin Soup
Fridge: Store leftover soup in an airtight container for up to 3 days, ensuring it cools to room temperature before sealing.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze soup in individual portions for up to 3 months. Use freezer-safe bags or containers, leaving space for expansion.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.
Airtight Tips: Avoid storing pastina pasta in the soup if freezing; cook fresh pasta when you’re ready to serve for the best texture in your Italian Penicillin Soup.
Make Ahead Options
These Italian Penicillin Soup preparations are perfect for busy weeknights! You can chop the sweet onion, carrots, and celery up to 24 hours in advance and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. Additionally, you can shred the rotisserie chicken ahead of time and keep it in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve the soup, simply combine the prepped ingredients with the chicken broth and bring it to a simmer. Cook the pastina right before serving to ensure it stays tender and doesn’t soak up too much broth. This way, you’ll have a delicious, time-saving meal ready in minutes, just as comforting as if you made it from scratch!
Expert Tips for Italian Penicillin Soup
- Quality Broth Matters: Choose a good-quality lower-sodium chicken broth for optimal flavor; it serves as the foundation of your Italian Penicillin Soup.
- Veggie Prep: Ensure veggies are cut uniformly to promote even cooking and tenderness; this enhances overall texture in the soup.
- Don’t Skip the Rind: Adding a Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese rind is essential—it adds depth and richness that elevates the entire dish.
- Watch the Pasta: Keep an eye on the pastina; overcooking will turn it mushy. Aim for al dente for the best bite.
- Season to Taste: Adjust the salt gradually as you cook; everyone’s palate is different, and you’ll want the perfect balance.
- Garnish Generously: Don’t be shy with the parsley and grated cheese on top—they add freshness and flare that makes this soup shine!
Italian Penicillin Soup Variations
Feel free to customize your Italian Penicillin Soup with these delightful twists that awaken your taste buds!
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Vegetarian: Swap out the chicken broth for vegetable broth and omit the shredded chicken for a nourishing plant-based option. Enjoy a medley of veggies bursting with flavor!
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Pasta Alternatives: Use small shell pasta orzo instead of pastina for an interesting texture change that still holds onto the soup’s savory goodness. Each bite will surprise you!
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Herb Infusion: Try adding fresh basil or dill in place of thyme for an aromatic twist—each herb brings its unique essence that will transform your soup into a garden-fresh delight.
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Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to introduce a gentle heat to the soup. It creates a lovely contrast to the comforting warmth, waking up your senses.
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Creamy Touch: Stir in a splash of cream or a dollop of crème fraîche before serving. This will add a luxurious, velvety texture, turning an already comforting dish into something indulgent.
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Lemon Zest: Incorporate the zest of one lemon or a squeeze of lemon juice just before serving for a bright and refreshing finish. It enhances the flavors and balances the richness beautifully!
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Savory Greens: Toss in a handful of fresh spinach or kale during the last few minutes of cooking. This not only boosts nutrition but also gives your soup a vibrant pop of color.
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Nutty Flavor: Add a tablespoon of toasted pine nuts or slivered almonds on top for a satisfying crunch. The nutty flavor pairs wonderfully with the soup’s warmth and heartiness.
Italian Penicillin Soup Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right ingredients for Italian Penicillin Soup?
Absolutely! For this comforting soup, choose fresh vegetables with no dark spots or blemishes. Look for vibrant carrots and celery, and make sure your onion is firm and fragrant. As for the rotisserie chicken, I often prefer the herb-seasoned variety for an extra flavor boost.
How should I store leftover Italian Penicillin Soup?
Leftover soup can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Let it cool to room temperature before sealing to maintain its deliciousness. When reheating, simply warm it up gently on the stovetop while stirring occasionally to bring back all the cozy flavors.
Can I freeze Italian Penicillin Soup?
Very! To freeze, portion the soup into airtight, freezer-safe bags or containers, leaving some space for the soup to expand. It will store well for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, just thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stovetop, adding fresh pastina for the best texture.
What should I do if the soup is too salty?
If you find the soup a bit too salty, don’t worry! You can add a few extra cups of low-sodium chicken broth or water to dilute the saltiness. If the soup is too thin after that, simmer it a bit longer to help meld those lovely flavors back together.
Is this soup safe for my pets to eat?
While the ingredients in Italian Penicillin Soup are nutritious, avoid letting pets consume it, especially due to garlic and onion, which can be harmful to them in larger amounts. If you’re looking for something pet-friendly, consider setting aside some plain, cooked chicken without seasoning for a special treat.
How can I prevent the pastina from getting mushy?
To keep the pastina pasta beautifully al dente, cook it separately just before you’re ready to enjoy the soup. Cook it according to package instructions in salted boiling water, then drain and stir it into the soup right before serving. This step ensures that you retain that delightful bite and texture!
Warm Up with Italian Penicillin Soup for Cozy Nights
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large pot, combine the chicken broth, sweet onion, chopped carrots, celery, smashed garlic, kosher salt, thyme sprigs, and bay leaves. Stir gently to mix.
- Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat and let it simmer until the vegetables are tender, about 15-20 minutes.
- Add the pastina pasta to the pot and cook according to package instructions, usually around 6-8 minutes, or until al dente.
- Stir in the shredded rotisserie chicken and the Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese rind. Allow everything to heat through for about 5 minutes.
- Remove the pot from heat and carefully discard the thyme sprigs and bay leaves. Enjoy the fragrant blend of flavors!
- Ladle the hot soup into bowls and finish by garnishing with grated cheese and fresh parsley leaves for a delightful presentation.