What’s in Italian penicillin soup?

Italian penicillin soup is a comforting blend of chicken, garlic, onion, carrots, celery, lemon, herbs, and small pasta such as orzo or pastina. These simple ingredients simmer together to create a rich, golden broth that soothes cold symptoms and nourishes the body. Knowing how to make Italian penicillin soup means understanding that every ingredient serves a purpose—chicken for strength, garlic for healing, and lemon for freshness.

What soup do Italians eat when sick?

When Italians feel under the weather, they turn to brodo di pollo, the original inspiration for Italian penicillin soup. This classic chicken broth, simmered slowly with vegetables and herbs, is believed to restore warmth and balance. It’s their go-to comfort food, much like chicken noodle soup in American homes.

Why do they call it Italian penicillin soup?

The term “penicillin soup” comes from the soup’s legendary healing reputation. Italians discovered long ago that the combination of chicken broth, garlic, lemon, and herbs naturally supports recovery and boosts immunity. That’s why learning how to make Italian penicillin soup feels like learning an old family remedy—it’s delicious, soothing, and effective.

Can you add ginger to Italian penicillin soup?

Absolutely. Adding fresh ginger gives your Italian penicillin soup a warm, slightly spicy note while adding extra anti-inflammatory and digestive benefits. Many home cooks blend traditions by including a few slices of ginger or a dash of turmeric. It’s a modern twist that still honors the heart of how to make Italian penicillin soup—a dish that heals, comforts, and inspires creativity in every kitchen.

How to Make Italian Penicillin Soup | 5 Healing Secrets for Comfort Lovers

Name: How to Make Italian Penicillin Soup
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 60 min
Total time: 1 h 10 min
Yield: 6 servings
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 2 lbs bone-in chicken; 8 cups chicken stock or water; 1 onion, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2 carrots, sliced; 2 celery stalks, diced; 1 lemon, juiced and zested; 1/2 cup orzo or pastina; 1 bay leaf; 1 tsp salt, 1/2 tsp pepper; 2 tbsp olive oil; Fresh parsley for garnish

Description

A soothing, healing Italian chicken soup made with lemon, garlic, herbs, and tender chicken — perfect for comfort and recovery.

Ingredients

Scale

2 lbs bone-in chicken

8 cups chicken stock or water

1 onion, chopped

3 cloves garlic, minced

2 carrots, sliced

2 celery stalks, diced

1 lemon, juiced and zested

1/2 cup orzo or pastina

1 bay leaf

1 tsp salt, 1/2 tsp pepper

2 tbsp olive oil

Fresh parsley for garnish

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Instructions

1. Heat olive oil and sauté onions, garlic, carrots, and celery for 5 minutes.

2. Add chicken, bay leaf, salt, and pepper.

3. Pour in stock and bring to a gentle boil, then reduce to simmer for 1 hour.

4. Remove chicken, shred it, and return to pot.

5. Add lemon juice, zest, and pasta.

6. Simmer 10 more minutes, season to taste.

7. Serve hot with parsley and parmesan.

Notes

Optional: Add fresh ginger or turmeric for extra immunity.

Store leftovers for up to 4 days or freeze for 3 months.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 60 minutes
Category: Soup
Method: Simmering
Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 bowl
Calories: 220
Sugar: 3g
Sodium: 580mg
Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Unsaturated Fat: 5g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 15g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 22g
Cholesterol: 55mg