Name: Italian Penicillin Soup
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 2 h
Total time: 2 h 15 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 whole chicken (about 3-4 lbs), cleaned; 2 medium onions, peeled and quartered; 3 carrots, peeled and chopped; 3 celery stalks, chopped; 4 cloves garlic, peeled; Salt to taste; Pepper to taste; Fresh herbs (like thyme or parsley); Water or chicken broth

Jump to Recipe

Italian Penicillin Soup is a comforting dish that warms both body and soul. With wholesome ingredients and simple steps, this soup is perfect for chilly days or when you’re feeling under the weather. It’s a hearty, delicious option that brings the flavors of Italy right to your kitchen.

Why Make This Recipe

Making Italian Penicillin Soup is easy and rewarding. It’s a great way to use a whole chicken and turn it into a nourishing meal. The soup is packed with flavor from the vegetables and fresh herbs, making it a tasty choice for the whole family. Plus, it’s a wonderful remedy if you’re feeling sick, providing that comforting, healing quality that only chicken soup can deliver.

How to Make Italian Penicillin Soup

Ingredients:

1 whole chicken (about 3-4 lbs), cleaned
2 medium onions, peeled and quartered
3 carrots, peeled and chopped
3 celery stalks, chopped
4 cloves garlic, peeled
Salt to taste
Pepper to taste
Fresh herbs (like thyme or parsley)
Water or chicken broth

Directions:

In a large pot, add the cleaned chicken and cover with water or chicken broth.
Bring to a boil over medium-high heat.
Skim off any foam that rises to the surface.
Add the onions, carrots, celery, and garlic to the pot.
Season with salt, pepper, and herbs.
Reduce heat to low and let simmer for about 1.5 to 2 hours until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
Remove the chicken from the pot, shred the meat, and return it to the soup.
Adjust seasoning to taste and serve hot.

How to Serve Italian Penicillin Soup

Serve Italian Penicillin Soup hot in bowls. You can add a sprinkle of fresh herbs on top for extra flavor. This soup goes great with crusty bread or a fresh salad on the side.

How to Store Italian Penicillin Soup

To store leftovers, let the soup cool completely. Pour it into airtight containers and refrigerate. It will last for about 3 to 4 days. You can also freeze the soup for longer storage; just ensure it is in a freezer-safe container.

Tips to Make Italian Penicillin Soup

Use homemade chicken broth for an even richer flavor.
Feel free to add other vegetables like potatoes or parsnips for variety.
If you prefer a creamier texture, you can blend a portion of the soup before adding the shredded chicken back in.

Variation

You can make a noodle version of this soup by adding your favorite pasta during the last 10-15 minutes of cooking. Just make sure to adjust the broth as necessary to account for the pasta.

FAQs

1. Can I use boneless chicken?
Yes, you can use boneless chicken, but the flavor might not be as rich as using a whole chicken with bones.

2. Is this soup good for meal prep?
Yes, Italian Penicillin Soup is excellent for meal prep! It keeps well in the fridge and freezer, making it easy to have a nutritious meal ready whenever you need it.

3. Can I use frozen chicken?
You can start with frozen chicken, but make sure it cooks thoroughly. It may take a little longer to become tender.