Italian Penicillin Soup Recipe – Healing Chicken Pastina Soup with Herbs & Garlic
This Italian Penicillin Soup is a soul-warming classic inspired by generations of Italian grandmothers. Made with tender shredded chicken, pastina pasta, garlic, carrots, celery, and a rich herb-infused broth, it’s the ultimate comfort food for sick days, chilly evenings, or anytime you need a nourishing boost. Often called “Italian chicken noodle soup,” this version adds depth with Parmesan, fresh parsley, and a splash of lemon juice. Easy to make and deeply satisfying, it’s a cozy bowl of healing you’ll crave year-round.
Equipment
- Large soup pot or Dutch oven
- Cutting board and knife
- Wooden spoon or ladle
- Measuring Cups and Spoons
- Small saucepan (if cooking pasta separately)
Ingredients
- 8 cups chicken broth (preferably homemade)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2–3 garlic cloves, minced
- ½ cup pastina or small pasta (acini di pepe, orzo)
- 1 cup cooked shredded chicken (optional)
- 1 tsp fresh rosemary or thyme
- 2 tbsp chopped parsley
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: juice of ½ lemon, handful of spinach, grated Parmesan
Instructions
- Sauté Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and garlic, sauté until fragrant and translucent (about 5 minutes).
- Simmer Broth: Pour in chicken broth and bring to a gentle boil. Add herbs and season with salt and pepper. Simmer for 20 minutes to infuse flavor.
- Cook Pasta: Add pastina directly to the soup or cook separately in salted water. If added to the soup, stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Add Chicken & Optional Ingredients: Stir in shredded chicken, spinach, and lemon juice if using. Simmer for another 5 minutes until heated through.
- Rest & Serve: Turn off heat and let soup sit for 15 minutes to allow flavors to meld. Ladle into bowls and garnish with parsley and Parmesan.
Notes
- Use homemade broth for deeper flavor and healing benefits.
- Cook pasta separately if you plan to freeze leftovers.
- Adjust herbs and lemon to taste—this soup is forgiving and customizable.
- Vegetarian version: use veggie broth and add beans or lentils for protein.
- Great for meal prep—flavors improve after a day in the fridge.