When the first hint of sniffles arrives or a busy week leaves me needing a hearty pick-me-up, I turn to this comforting bowl. The aroma of simmering broth, garlic, and fresh herbs truly fills the kitchen with warmth, promising a soothing embrace with every spoonful. This easy Italian Penicillin Soup, also affectionately known as Healing Chicken Soup, is a family-friendly favorite, perfect for those brisk evenings when you want a simple, nourishing meal without much fuss.

What You’ll Need (Ingredients & Why They Matter)
Core Ingredients for Your Healing Chicken Soup
- Cooked Chicken Breast: 2 cups (280g) shredded. A quick protein source that saves so much time. For ultimate ease and rich flavor, I often grab a rotisserie chicken from the store.
- Small Pasta (Ditalini or Orzo): 1 cup (170g) dry. These small shapes are classic for Italian Penicillin Soup, perfect for soaking up flavor. (Try gluten-free pasta or small rice if preferred).
- Chicken Broth (Low Sodium): 8 cups (1.9 liters). Forms the warming base, brimming with nutrients. Opt for an organic, good quality broth for the deepest flavor, or homemade if you have it.
- Mirepoix (Carrots, Celery, Onion): 1 cup (120g) chopped carrots, 1 cup (120g) chopped celery, 1 medium (150g) yellow onion, chopped. This classic trio builds a robust flavor foundation and adds essential vitamins.
- Fresh Spinach: 2-3 cups (60-90g) fresh, loosely packed. These wilted greens add a vibrant pop of color and extra iron, stirring in quickly at the end.
- Parmesan Cheese (Optional): ¼ cup (25g) freshly grated. For serving, this offers a salty, umami finish that truly elevates the soup. (Pecorino Romano is a great swap too).
Culinary Extras for Flavor and Nutrition
- Fresh Garlic: 4 cloves, minced. A must-have for its immune-boosting properties and pungent flavor.
- Fresh Parsley: ¼ cup (10g) chopped. Brightens the soup and adds a wonderful fresh aroma right before serving.
- Lemon Wedge: 1, for serving. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice at the end lifts all the flavors, adding a necessary brightness.
- Olive Oil: 1 tablespoon. Used for sautéing your vegetables to perfection, coaxing out their sweetness.
How to Make Italian Penicillin Soup Step by Step
- Step 1: Sauté Aromatics. Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large 6-quart Dutch oven over medium heat. Add chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Cook for 5-7 minutes until the vegetables have softened and appear slightly translucent, then stir in minced garlic for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Step 2: Build the Broth. Pour in 8 cups of low-sodium chicken broth. Bring the liquid to a gentle simmer, then reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and cook for 15 minutes to let those delicious flavors truly meld together.
- Step 3: Add Pasta and Chicken. Stir in 1 cup ditalini or orzo pasta and 2 cups shredded cooked chicken. Continue cooking for 8-10 minutes, or until the pasta is perfectly al dente, stirring occasionally to prevent it from sticking to the pot’s bottom. If the broth looks like it’s reducing too quickly, add ½ cup more broth to maintain consistency. This is key for a luscious Italian Penicillin Soup.
- Step 4: Finish with Greens. Remove the pot from the heat and stir in 2-3 cups fresh spinach until it just wilts into the warm soup, turning vibrant green. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste, ensuring the flavors are perfectly balanced.
- Step 5: Serve. Ladle the steaming Italian Penicillin Soup into individual bowls. Garnish generously with fresh parsley and a bright squeeze of fresh lemon juice. A sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese adds a lovely finishing touch.
Quick Swaps and Variations
- Veggie Boost: Add ½ cup of zucchini, peas, or green beans along with the pasta for an extra nutrient kick, making it even more of a family-friendly meal.
- Spice It Up: A small pinch of red pepper flakes adds a nice, subtle kick, especially if you’re fighting a cold.
- Creamy Touch: Stir in a tablespoon of cream cheese or a splash of heavy cream at the very end for a richer, more indulgent Healing Chicken Soup.
Troubleshooting Your Healing Chicken Soup
- Too Salty? Add a peeled and halved potato to the soup to absorb excess salt while simmering, then remove before serving. Alternatively, add more unsalted broth to dilute.
- Pasta Too Mushy? Remove the pot from heat immediately once the pasta is al dente, tasting for tenderness. Next time, consider cooking the pasta separately and adding it to individual bowls just before serving for optimal texture.
Best Ways to Enjoy Your Hearty Italian Penicillin Soup
This comforting Italian Penicillin Soup is incredibly versatile, fitting into your busiest days and nourishing your family with ease.
Everyday Uses
- Weeknight Warrior: Enjoy a satisfying dinner in under 30 minutes. It’s an easy dinner idea when time is short.
- Lunchbox Hero: Pack leftovers for a comforting workday lunch. For best results, store cooked pasta separately from the soup if meal prepping.
- Meal Prep Marvel: Prepare a big batch of broth and veggies, then add freshly cooked chicken and pasta when you are ready to eat.
Pairings and Toppings
Enhance your Italian Penicillin Soup with these delightful additions:
- Crusty Bread: Perfect for dipping and soaking up every drop of rich broth.
- Side Salad: A light, fresh salad offers a lovely contrast to the hearty soup.
- Fresh Herbs: Extra parsley, basil, or chives add bright, fragrant notes.
- Lemon Wedges: A squeeze of fresh lemon is essential for brightening every bowl.
- Grated Parmesan or Pecorino Romano: For a salty, umami finish that truly elevates the flavor.
Nutrition & Everyday Wellness with Italian Penicillin Soup
This Italian Penicillin Soup offers more than just comfort; it’s a powerhouse for everyday wellness and healthy eating.
- Protein-Rich: Lean chicken provides a high-protein meal, great for muscle recovery and feeling full.
- Vitamin-Packed: Loaded with vitamins from carrots, celery, and fresh spinach, supporting a healthy immune system.
- Hydrating & Soothing: The warm, savory broth of this healthy recipe for dinner is ideal when you need to rehydrate and feel comforted.
- Balanced Meal: With protein, carbohydrates, and vegetables, it’s a wholesome, family meal prep idea that nourishes your body.

How This Recipe Solves Common Needs
Our Italian Penicillin Soup is designed to make home cooking easier and more rewarding for busy families.
- Time Saver: Using pre-cooked chicken and quick-cooking pasta significantly reduces your time in the kitchen, making it perfect for quick meals.
- Budget-Friendly: Simple, affordable ingredients mean this nourishing soup is a smart, economical choice for family dinners.
- Healthier Eating: This wholesome alternative to takeout is packed with essential nutrients and the goodness of a homemade meal.
Expert Pointers and Smart Variations
Cooking Tricks for Texture and Flavor
Mastering your Italian Penicillin Soup is easy with these simple kitchen tips:
- Rotisserie Chicken Hack: Shred a pre-cooked rotisserie chicken for instant protein and robust flavor, saving you precious time.
- Fresh Herbs Last: Always add delicate fresh herbs like parsley or basil right before serving to preserve their vibrant aroma and taste.
- Don’t Overcook Pasta: Aim for al dente pasta; mushy pasta can quickly diminish the soup’s delightful texture.
Adjustments for Family & Kid Preferences
Tailor this healing chicken soup to please even the pickiest eaters in your household:
- Picky Eater Friendly: Cut vegetables into tiny pieces, or blend a portion of the soup for a smoother, less ‘chunky’ texture.
- Make it Fun: Use engaging pasta shapes like stars, animals, or alphabet letters to make mealtime more appealing for kids.
Allergy-Friendly Tweaks & Diet-Safe Swaps
Adapt your Italian Penicillin Soup to fit various dietary needs with these simple swaps:
- Gluten-Free: Easily use gluten-free pasta or a cup of rice instead of traditional wheat pasta.
- Dairy-Free: Simply omit the Parmesan cheese or opt for your favorite plant-based cheese alternative.
- Vegetarian Option: Replace the chicken with 1 can (15 ounces) cannellini beans or chickpeas, and use vegetable broth.
Common Questions About Italian Penicillin Soup
Can I freeze Italian Penicillin Soup for later?
Yes, this Italian Penicillin Soup freezes beautifully! For best results, freeze the broth and cooked vegetables without the pasta and shredded chicken. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw, reheat the broth, and add freshly cooked pasta and chicken. This prevents the pasta from getting mushy.
What’s the healthiest way to make this healing chicken soup?
To maximize health benefits, use a low-sodium chicken broth and lean chicken breast. Load your soup with extra vegetables like kale, zucchini, or bell peppers. I often add a handful of frozen peas right at the end for extra green goodness. Skip any added fats beyond a touch of olive oil, and avoid heavy creams.
Which ingredients are best for meal prepping this hearty chicken soup?
For ideal meal prep, focus on preparing the broth base, sautéed vegetables, and shredded chicken. Store these components together. The key is to cook your small pasta shape fresh when you’re ready to serve each portion. This prevents the pasta from absorbing too much liquid and becoming overly soft during storage.
Can I make this a vegetarian Italian Penicillin Soup?
Absolutely! To make a vegetarian Italian Penicillin Soup, simply swap chicken broth for a rich vegetable broth. For protein, replace the chicken with a can of drained and rinsed cannellini beans or chickpeas. You’ll still enjoy a hearty and flavorful bowl.
How long does this comforting chicken soup last in the fridge?
Your batch of this comforting chicken soup will keep well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Be aware that the pasta will continue to absorb liquid over time. For the best texture, I suggest adding a splash of extra broth or water when reheating. This keeps it perfectly comforting.
Is this healing chicken soup good for a cold?
Yes, this healing chicken soup is truly excellent when you’re feeling under the weather! The warm broth is incredibly hydrating and soothing for sore throats. Packed with vitamins from the vegetables and protein from the chicken, it’s a nourishing meal that helps support your body when you need it most.
Can I use different types of pasta?
Of course! Small pasta shapes are best for this healing chicken soup. Ditalini and orzo are classics, but pastina, stelline, or even broken vermicelli or spaghetti work beautifully. Choose any small pasta you love for this comforting meal.
This Italian Penicillin Soup is truly a comforting, wholesome meal, perfect for healthy eating and family dinners. I know you’ll love it as much as we do; pin this easy chicken soup recipe now!
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Italian Penicillin Soup (Healing Chicken Soup)
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: General
Description
This comforting Italian Penicillin Soup, also known as Healing Chicken Soup, is a family-friendly and nourishing meal perfect for brisk evenings or when you need a hearty pick-me-up. It’s an easy recipe that fills the kitchen with warmth and provides a soothing embrace with every spoonful.
Ingredients
- 2 cups shredded cooked chicken breast
- 1 cup dry small pasta (such as ditalini or orzo)
- 8 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 cup chopped carrots
- 1 cup chopped celery
- 1 medium chopped yellow onion
- 2.5 cups fresh spinach, loosely packed
- 0.25 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- 4 cloves minced fresh garlic
- 0.25 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1 lemon wedge, for serving
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Sauté Aromatics: Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large 6-quart Dutch oven over medium heat. Add chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Cook for 5-7 minutes until vegetables soften and appear slightly translucent, then stir in minced garlic for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Build Broth Base: Pour in 8 cups of low-sodium chicken broth. Bring the liquid to a gentle simmer, then reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and cook for 15 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
- Add Pasta and Chicken: Stir in 1 cup ditalini or orzo pasta and 2 cups shredded cooked chicken. Continue cooking for 8-10 minutes, or until the pasta is perfectly al dente, stirring occasionally. If broth reduces too quickly, add 0.5 cup more broth.
- Finish with Greens: Remove the pot from the heat and stir in 2-3 cups fresh spinach until it just wilts into the warm soup. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
- Serve Soup: Ladle the steaming soup into individual bowls. Garnish generously with fresh parsley, a squeeze of fresh lemon juice, and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese.
Notes
For a veggie boost, add 0.5 cup of zucchini, peas, or green beans with the pasta. A small pinch of red pepper flakes can add a subtle kick. For a creamy touch, stir in 1 tablespoon of cream cheese or a splash of heavy cream at the end. To reduce saltiness, add a peeled and halved potato while simmering, then remove before serving, or add more unsalted broth. To prevent mushy pasta, cook pasta until just al dente and remove from heat immediately, or cook pasta separately and add to individual bowls just before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 31 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1.5 cups (360 g)
- Calories: 300 calories
- Sugar: 5 g
- Sodium: 400 mg
- Fat: 12 g
- Saturated Fat: 4 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 30 g
- Fiber: 4 g
- Protein: 25 g
- Cholesterol: 70 mg
Keywords: Italian Penicillin Soup, Healing Chicken Soup, chicken soup, easy, comfort food, nourishing, family-friendly, pasta, spinach, healthy