This comforting Italian Penicillin Soup is a nourishing and flavorful chicken broth-based soup infused with aromatic vegetables, herbs, and a hint of lemon juice, perfect for ultimate healing and cozy meals.
Author:Mari
Prep Time:15 minutes
Cook Time:30 minutes
Total Time:45 minutes
Yield:6 servings 1x
Category:Soup
Method:Stovetop
Cuisine:Italian
Diet:Low Fat, Low Salt, Halal
Ingredients
Scale
Soup Base
2 tbsp olive oil (a fruity base that adds depth to the soup.)
1 cup onion, diced (brings sweetness and a flavor foundation.)
1 cup carrots, diced (adds natural sweetness and color.)
1 cup celery, diced (introduces crunch and aromatic flavor.)
3 cloves garlic, minced (for a fragrant, savory kick.)
8 cups chicken broth (use low-sodium for a healthier option.)
1 lb chicken breast, skinless and boneless (the heart of this nourishing soup.)
2 bay leaves (lend a subtle depth during cooking.)
1 tsp dried oregano (or fresh, for a fragrant herbaceous note.)
1 tsp dried thyme (or fresh, to elevate flavor.)
1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional – to add a hint of warmth.)
salt (to taste.)
pepper (to taste.)
Garnish
1 cup pasta (used for garnish, optional.)
2 tbsp fresh lemon juice (brightens the dish with a refreshing zing.)
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (for a burst of color and freshness.)
Instructions
Heat olive oil: In a large, heavy-bottomed pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat until shimmering.
Sauté vegetables: Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until softened and the onion is translucent.
Add garlic: Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 more minute until fragrant.
Add broth and chicken: Pour in the chicken broth and nestle the chicken breast into the pot.
Add herbs and spices: Toss in the bay leaves, oregano, thyme, and optional red pepper flakes. Bring to a gentle boil.
Simmer chicken: Reduce heat to maintain a steady simmer, cooking for about 25-30 minutes until the chicken is cooked through.
Shred chicken: Remove the chicken breast, cool slightly, discard skin and bones, then shred the meat.
Season broth: Taste the broth and add salt and pepper as needed. Return the shredded chicken to the pot.
Cook pasta (optional): Bring the soup back to a gentle boil, and stir in the pasta if desired, cooking until al dente.
Finish soup: Remove bay leaves and stir in the lemon juice and parsley, adjusting seasoning if needed.