Feeling under the weather? Let me introduce you to my Italian Penicillin Chicken Soup. This warm, hearty bowl is simple to make and packed with good-for-you ingredients. With a whole chicken and fresh vegetables simmered in rich broth, it’s like a hug in a bowl. Ready to boost your health with a cozy meal? Join me as we explore how to create this comforting dish step by step!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Comforting and Nourishing: This soup is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for chilly days or when you’re feeling under the weather. The combination of chicken and vegetables creates a nourishing dish that warms the soul.
- Easy to Make: The recipe is straightforward and requires minimal effort, making it perfect for weeknight dinners. Most of the time is hands-off while the soup simmers, allowing you to relax.
- Customizable: You can easily adapt this recipe to include your favorite vegetables or pasta shapes. It’s a great way to use up leftover ingredients in your fridge!
- Flavorful and Satisfying: With the addition of herbs, lemon zest, and a hint of heat, this soup is bursting with flavor. The tender chicken and al dente pasta make it a satisfying meal that everyone will love.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
– Whole chicken (approximately 3-4 lbs), cut into manageable pieces
– 8 cups low-sodium chicken broth
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 3 medium carrots, diced
– 2 celery stalks, diced
– 1 cup diced tomatoes, fresh or canned (well-drained)
– 1 cup acini di pepe or small pasta
Herbs and Spices
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a touch of heat)
– Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Garnish
– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
– Zest of 1 lemon
When making Italian Penicillin Chicken Soup, I always start with these core ingredients. The whole chicken adds rich flavor and protein. Using low-sodium chicken broth allows for better control of salt. Fresh vegetables like onion, garlic, carrots, and celery create a great base. Diced tomatoes give a nice texture and sweetness.
I love using acini di pepe pasta because it cooks quickly and adds a fun bite. You can swap it for any small pasta you prefer.
Herbs like oregano and basil bring a classic Italian taste. Red pepper flakes add a hint of heat, but you can skip them if you want a milder soup. Finally, fresh parsley and lemon zest brighten the dish and make it special.
Gather these ingredients, and you’ll be on your way to making a warm and nourishing soup that feels like a hug in a bowl.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation Steps
– Sauté onion and garlic: In a large pot, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add 1 medium onion, finely chopped, and 3 cloves of minced garlic. Cook them for about 3-4 minutes until they are soft and fragrant. Stir them occasionally to avoid burning.
– Add carrots and celery: Next, add 3 diced carrots and 2 diced celery stalks to the pot. Cook these for about 5 minutes, stirring often. This helps to soften the veggies and brings out their flavors.
Cooking Steps
– Combine broth and chicken: Carefully pour in 8 cups of low-sodium chicken broth. Add a whole chicken, cut into manageable pieces. Raise the heat to bring it to a gentle boil. Then, lower the heat to let it simmer.
– Add tomatoes and seasonings: Stir in 1 cup of diced tomatoes, 1 teaspoon of dried oregano, and 1 teaspoon of dried basil. If you like some heat, add 1/2 teaspoon of red pepper flakes. Taste and season with salt and black pepper.
– Simmer and shred chicken: Cover the pot and let it simmer for 25-30 minutes. The chicken should be fully cooked and tender. Use a slotted spoon to take out the chicken pieces. Let them cool for a bit.
Final Touches
– Cook pasta: Shred the chicken off the bones and return the meat to the pot. Add 1 cup of acini di pepe or small pasta. Cook according to package instructions, usually about 8-10 minutes, until it’s al dente. Stir often to prevent sticking.
– Garnish and serve: Remove the pot from heat and mix in the zest of 1 lemon and some chopped fresh parsley. Taste the soup again and adjust seasonings if needed. Serve hot in bowls, garnished with more parsley or lemon zest. Enjoy your nourishing Italian Penicillin Chicken Soup!
Tips & Tricks
Perfecting the Flavor
To make this soup shine, adjust the seasonings. Taste as you go! If you want more depth, add salt and pepper to your liking. Dried oregano and basil are great choices. These herbs add warmth and earthiness. If you enjoy spice, try adding red pepper flakes for a little kick. Just remember, a little goes a long way!
Soup Consistency
You can choose how thick or thin you want your soup. If you prefer a thicker soup, let it simmer longer. This helps the flavors blend better. If it gets too thick, add more broth or water. Stir it well, and keep adjusting until you reach your desired consistency.
Cooking Techniques
Using a pressure cooker can speed up cooking time. It cooks the chicken quick and keeps it juicy. If you use the stovetop, be patient and let it simmer. After cooking, shredding the chicken is simple. Use two forks to pull apart the meat. This makes it easy to mix back into the soup. Enjoy the process!
Pro Tips
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh vegetables and herbs to enhance the flavor of your soup. Freshness ensures a vibrant taste and better nutrition.
- Customize Your Pasta: You can substitute acini di pepe with any small pasta like orzo or ditalini. Just adjust the cooking time according to the pasta package instructions.
- Make it Ahead: This soup tastes even better the next day! Make it ahead of time and store in the fridge. Reheat gently on the stove before serving.
- Add More Veggies: Feel free to add more vegetables such as zucchini, spinach, or kale for added nutrition and flavor. Just toss them in during the last few minutes of cooking.
Variations
Add-Ins
You can make Italian Penicillin Chicken Soup your own. Add different vegetables to it. Spinach or zucchini works well. These veggies add color and nutrition. You can also try different types of pasta. Small shells or ditalini can replace acini di pepe. This keeps the dish fresh and fun.
Dietary Adaptations
If you need gluten-free options, use gluten-free pasta. This keeps the soup safe for those with gluten issues. You can also make low-fat variations. Use skinless chicken and less oil. This way, you enjoy a light and healthy soup.
Flavor Twists
Want to add some brightness? Try adding lemon juice or zest. It gives the soup a fresh kick. You can also experiment with different herbs. Thyme or rosemary can create unique flavor profiles. Each choice adds a special touch to your soup.
Storage Info
Immediate Storage
To keep your Italian Penicillin Chicken Soup fresh, store it in an airtight container. Let the soup cool to room temperature first. Then, seal the container and place it in the fridge. This method keeps the soup safe and tasty. Leftovers stay good for up to four days. When storing, try to divide the soup into smaller portions. This way, you can grab just what you need.
Freezing Tips
If you want to save some soup for later, freezing is a great option. Portion out the soup into freezer-safe bags or containers. Leave some space at the top, as soup expands when frozen. Label the bags with the date and type of soup. To reheat, move the soup from the freezer to the fridge the night before. This way, it thaws gently. When ready to eat, heat it on the stove over low heat. Stir often until it warms through. You can also use a microwave, but be sure to cover the container to avoid spills.
Shelf Life
In the fridge, your soup can last about four days. If you freeze it, the soup stays good for up to three months. Check for signs of spoilage before eating. If the soup smells sour or has mold, it’s best to throw it away. It’s always safer to trust your nose and eyes. Enjoy your delicious soup while it’s fresh!
FAQs
What is Italian Penicillin Chicken Soup?
Italian Penicillin Chicken Soup is a warm and hearty dish. It combines chicken, vegetables, and pasta in a rich broth. Many call it “penicillin” for its comforting and healing properties. This soup is perfect for cold days or when you’re feeling under the weather.
How long does it take to make Italian Penicillin Chicken Soup?
Making this soup takes about one hour. You will spend around fifteen minutes prepping the ingredients. The cooking time is about forty-five minutes. This includes simmering the broth and cooking the chicken and pasta.
Can I use chicken thighs instead of a whole chicken?
Yes, you can use chicken thighs. They add extra flavor and tenderness. Just adjust the cooking time if needed. Thighs may take less time to cook than a whole chicken. Ensure the chicken reaches a safe internal temperature.
How can I make this soup spicier?
To spice up your soup, add more red pepper flakes. You can also include chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce. Start with a small amount, then taste as you go. Adjust the heat to your liking.
What can I serve with Italian Penicillin Chicken Soup?
This soup pairs well with crusty bread or a fresh salad. You can also serve it with garlic bread for a tasty side. Consider a light dessert, like fruit or sorbet, to finish the meal.
This blog covered the art of making Italian Penicillin Chicken Soup. We discussed key ingredients, like whole chicken and fresh vegetables, along with the best herbs and spices. You learned step-by-step cooking techniques and tips to adjust flavor and consistency. Exploring variations and storage methods helps you customize and keep your soup fresh.
In closing, this soup offers warmth, comfort, and endless flavor options. Enjoy making your own versio
