Italian Penicillin Soup Recipe – 17 Powerful Benefits

For centuries, soup has been considered the ultimate comfort food—a warm, nourishing remedy for the body and soul. But among the many variations of healing broths across cultures, one stands out for its uniquely Mediterranean twist: Italian Penicillin Soup Recipe. Often compared to its Jewish counterpart known as “Jewish Penicillin” or chicken soup, the Italian version boasts a vibrant medley of vegetables, herbs, and protein-rich ingredients that make it both flavorful and medicinal.

This soup isn’t just about feeding the hungry or fighting off the sniffles—it’s about honoring tradition, healing from within, and making the most of nature’s pantry. With garlic, thyme, olive oil, chicken broth, and a symphony of fresh vegetables, this old-world remedy has resurfaced as a powerful immune-boosting elixir in modern kitchens.

Whether you’re trying to bounce back from a cold, maintain a healthy immune system, or simply crave a rustic, hearty soup, this recipe is a must-try. We’ll walk you through everything: from the origins of this dish, its health benefits, the specific ingredients that make it so potent, to a step-by-step recipe you can easily follow at home.

So, grab your apron, sharpen your knife, and let’s take a trip to the heart of Italy—one healing spoonful at a time.

What Is Italian Penicillin Soup Recipe?

Origins in Italian Cuisine

The term “Italian Penicillin Soup Recipe” may sound like a modern nickname, but the roots of this recipe run deep through Italy’s culinary history. In fact, the concept of medicinal soup can be traced back to rural kitchens in regions like Tuscany, Sicily, and Lazio, where grandmothers would craft seasonal broths from whatever herbs, bones, and vegetables they had on hand. While there’s no single version of this soup that defines the entire country, its essence—fresh ingredients cooked slowly for maximum nutrition—is a staple of Italian home remedies.

Italian cuisine places a strong emphasis on “la cucina povera”—the cooking of the poor—which focuses on using simple, wholesome ingredients to create deeply flavorful dishes. In the case of Italian Penicillin Soup, this means using the bones and trimmings from a chicken, hardy herbs like rosemary and bay leaf, nutrient-rich vegetables like carrots and fennel, and olive oil not just for flavor, but also for its anti-inflammatory properties.

What makes it different from other broths is how it is built: layer upon layer of flavor, often beginning with sautéed aromatics, followed by simmered broth and slow-cooked greens. The resulting dish is both nourishing and restorative.

If you’re a fan of feel-good dishes that are both nutritious and delicious, try our creamy and spicy Buffalo Chicken Cauliflower Casserole — it’s another recipe packed with warmth and wellness.

Comparison with Jewish Penicillin (Chicken Soup)

Italian Penicillin Soup and Jewish Chicken Italian Penicillin Soup Recipe share a lot of characteristics—both are rich in protein, broth-based, and known for their immune-supporting properties. However, the Italian version leans heavily into herbs, olive oil, and Mediterranean vegetables to give it a distinct flavor and healing profile.

Jewish Chicken Soup typically focuses on clear broth and may include matzo balls or egg noodles, whereas the Italian version might include orzo, ditalini, or farro. Where the Jewish version is subtle and clean, the Italian counterpart is earthier, spicier, and more herbaceous—featuring ingredients like garlic, oregano, lemon zest, and even chili flakes to open up the sinuses and invigorate the system.

Another key difference lies in the base:Italian Penicillin Soup Recipe often starts with a sofritto—a slowly cooked mixture of onion, carrot, and celery in olive oil that builds a rich foundation of flavor. This step adds warmth and depth, making the soup as much a meal as it is a remedy.

And finally, while both are designed to comfort and heal, the Italian version emphasizes not just the immune-boosting properties but also digestive health, anti-inflammation, and antioxidant power through its diverse range of vegetables and herbs.

Benefits of Italian Penicillin Soup Recipe

More than just a comforting meal, Italian Penicillin Soup Recipe is a carefully balanced combination of ingredients with powerful health benefits. Every component, from garlic to greens, contributes to the body’s natural healing processes, making this dish a holistic wellness remedy. Let’s explore the science and tradition behind the soup’s health-boosting reputation.

Natural Antibiotics

Garlic – The Heart of Natural Healing

Garlic is the cornerstone of many healing recipes across cultures, and Italian Penicillin Soup Recipe is no exception. Known for its potent antimicrobial, antiviral, and antibacterial properties, garlic helps the body fight infections. It contains allicin, a sulfur compound released when raw garlic is chopped or crushed, which acts as a natural antibiotic. Including several cloves of garlic in this soup helps clear sinus congestion, reduce inflammation, and support immune responses.

Onion – Nature’s Flu Fighter

Onions are another traditional ingredient with natural antibiotic qualities. Rich in antioxidants and sulfur-containing compounds, onions have been used for centuries to combat respiratory conditions. They not only provide a depth of flavor but also help cleanse the blood, reduce fever, and soothe coughs—making them an essential part of this therapeutic broth.

Fresh Herbs – Oregano, Thyme, and Basil

These aromatic herbs are packed with polyphenols and flavonoids—natural antioxidants that fight free radicals and reduce inflammation. Oregano is particularly known for its antimicrobial properties, thyme is a powerful expectorant that helps relieve cough and congestion, and basil contributes anti-inflammatory benefits and a calming effect on the digestive system.

Immune-Boosting Ingredients

Chicken Broth – The Healing Base

At the core of Italian Penicillin Soup Recipe lies a rich, slow-simmered chicken broth. Bone-in chicken parts provide essential minerals like calcium, magnesium, and phosphorus, while the gelatin from bones supports gut health and strengthens the immune barrier. This nutrient-dense base hydrates the body, replenishes electrolytes, and delivers warmth and comfort with every spoonful.

Carrots, Celery, and Fennel

These vegetables not only enhance flavor but also contribute valuable vitamins and minerals. Carrots are high in beta-carotene, a precursor to Vitamin A, which is vital for immune function. Celery offers antioxidants and fiber that support digestion, while fennel adds a gentle, soothing effect on the stomach and respiratory system.

Leafy Greens – Spinach, Kale, or Escarole

Dark leafy greens are nutrient powerhouses loaded with Vitamins A, C, and K, plus iron and folate. These greens detoxify the liver, support circulation, and reinforce the immune system. They’re added toward the end of the cooking process to retain their nutrients and maintain texture.

Digestive and Anti-Inflammatory Support

Olive Oil – Liquid Gold

Extra virgin olive oil is more than a healthy fat—it’s a proven anti-inflammatory food rich in oleocanthal, which mimics the effects of ibuprofen. Using it as a base for the sofritto (a sauté of garlic, onion, and celery) enhances the soup’s flavor and adds powerful antioxidants that aid digestion and reduce swelling in the body.

Ginger and Lemon

Although not always traditional, ginger and lemon are excellent modern additions to Italian Penicillin Soup. Ginger aids in digestion and acts as an anti-nausea agent, while lemon adds Vitamin C and supports detoxification. Both ingredients also help open nasal passages and refresh the palate.

Parsley – More Than Just Garnish

Often overlooked, parsley is rich in chlorophyll, which detoxifies the body, and is a great source of Vitamin K for bone health and blood clotting. It also supports kidney function and freshens breath—a small addition with major benefits.

With these potent ingredients, Italian Penicillin Soup Recipe goes far beyond comfort food. It becomes a powerful, natural alternative to over-the-counter remedies—supporting the immune system, reducing inflammation, aiding digestion, and promoting overall vitality.

Essential Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of Italian Penicillin Soup Recipe lies in the harmony of its ingredients. Each one contributes something unique—whether it’s immune-boosting vitamins, anti-inflammatory compounds, or simply comforting flavor. Below is a complete list of the 17 core ingredients that form the foundation of this restorative soup.

Looking for other creative ways to use chicken? Our White Chicken Lasagna Soup offers another warm, healing bowl perfect for chilly nights.

Protein Base

1. Whole Chicken or Bone-In Chicken Thighs

Using a whole chicken or bone-in thighs adds both depth of flavor and vital nutrients to the broth. The bones release collagen, gelatin, and amino acids, which support joint, gut, and immune health.

2. Chicken Stock or Bone Broth

If you’re not using a whole chicken to make your own stock, use high-quality bone broth as your base. It contains essential minerals and supports hydration while amplifying the nutritional value of the soup.

3. Optional – Beef Marrow Bones

For an even richer broth, consider adding a few beef marrow bones. They add umami flavor and boost the soup’s restorative properties, especially for energy and joint health.

Vegetables & Greens

4. Onion

A foundational aromatic, onions are rich in antioxidants and sulfur compounds. They help detoxify the body and build flavor from the very first step of cooking.

5. Garlic

Used generously, garlic provides antiviral, antibacterial, and anti-inflammatory benefits. It’s also essential for flavor, giving the soup its classic Italian depth.

6. Carrots

Loaded with beta-carotene, carrots add both sweetness and nutrition. They support eye health and immune function.

7. Celery

Celery offers crunch, fiber, and a unique set of antioxidants. It’s part of the traditional Italian sofritto base and plays a major role in building complexity in the soup.

8. Fennel

This Mediterranean favorite adds a light anise flavor and supports digestion. Fennel also calms bloating and soothes the gut lining.

9. Leafy Greens (Spinach, Kale, or Escarole)

Choose any dark green of your liking. Spinach is mild and soft, kale is hearty and fibrous, and escarole is slightly bitter. All are high in iron, folate, and Vitamin K.

Herbs & Aromatics

10. Fresh Oregano

This herb offers antibacterial benefits and a strong earthy flavor. Oregano also supports respiratory health, which is especially helpful when sick.

11. Thyme

Thyme is a natural decongestant with anti-inflammatory compounds. It works wonders in broths and stews, helping with both flavor and healing.

12. Basil

Basil adds a fragrant lift to the soup. It’s rich in antioxidants and has antibacterial properties that enhance immune function.

13. Bay Leaves

Bay leaves give subtle depth to soups when simmered over time. They also support digestion and help balance strong flavors.

Healing Add-Ons

14. Extra Virgin Olive Oil

Used to sauté the aromatics at the beginning of the recipe, olive oil contains oleocanthal, a natural compound that reduces inflammation. It’s the base of traditional Italian sofritto.

15. Fresh Ginger (Optional but Recommended)

Ginger brings a peppery warmth and helps with nausea, digestion, and inflammation. Though not traditional in Italian cuisine, it’s an excellent modern healing addition.

16. Fresh Lemon Juice & Zest

A splash of lemon juice at the end of cooking brightens the soup and boosts Vitamin C. Lemon zest adds fragrance and supports liver detoxification.

17. Fresh Parsley

Used as a garnish or stirred in during the final minutes, parsley adds freshness and is rich in chlorophyll, vitamins, and minerals. It’s often the finishing touch in many Italian dishes.

These 17 ingredients combine to create a flavorful, immune-supportive, and comforting bowl of soup that’s both timeless and timely. Whether you’re battling a cold, recovering from illness, or just want to feel rejuvenated, this ingredient list ensures your soup works as medicine.

Step-by-Step Italian Penicillin Soup Recipe

Now that you’ve got your ingredients lined up, it’s time to put everything together into a beautiful, nourishing bowl of Italian Penicillin Soup. This recipe follows a traditional preparation method used in many Italian households, enhanced with a few modern healing touches.

Prep Time, Cook Time, and Servings For Italian Penicillin Soup Recipe

Tip: If you’re short on time, this Italian Penicillin Soup Recipe can also be adapted for a slow cooker or pressure cooker—details below.

Preparation Instructions For Italian Penicillin Soup Recipe

Ingredients Recap:

• 1 whole chicken or 6–8 bone-in chicken thighs
• 8 cups chicken stock or bone broth
• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 4–5 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 carrots, chopped
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 1 fennel bulb, sliced
• 2 cups chopped leafy greens (spinach, kale, or escarole)
• 1 teaspoon fresh thyme (or ½ tsp dried)
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon fresh basil, chopped (optional)
• 2 bay leaves
• 1-inch knob of fresh ginger, grated (optional)
• Zest and juice of 1 lemon
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Cooking Steps For Italian Penicillin Soup Recipe:

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics (Sofritto Base)
In a large stockpot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onions, celery, and carrots (the Italian soffritto) and cook for 6–8 minutes, stirring occasionally until softened and golden. Add the minced garlic, sliced fennel, ginger (if using), thyme, and oregano. Cook for another 2–3 minutes until fragrant.

Step 2: Add the Chicken & Broth
Place your whole chicken or chicken thighs into the pot. Pour in the chicken stock, making sure the meat is fully submerged. Add the bay leaves. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Skim off any foam or impurities that rise to the top.

Step 3: Simmer and Develop Flavors
Cover the pot partially and let the soup simmer for at least 1 hour. The longer you simmer, the richer the broth will be. If using a whole chicken, remove it after about an hour, let it cool slightly, shred the meat, and discard the bones and skin. Return the shredded chicken to the soup.

Step 4: Add Greens and Final Touches
Add your leafy greens to the pot and simmer for another 5–10 minutes. Stir in the lemon zest and juice, and season with salt and freshly cracked black pepper. Remove the bay leaves before serving.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Ladle the soup into bowls, and top with fresh chopped parsley. Drizzle with a little olive oil and a sprinkle of grated parmesan (optional) for extra richness.

💡 For extra healing power, pair with warm tea infused with ginger and honey or sip a small glass of elderberry juice after your meal.

Craving a lighter Mediterranean meal? Consider trying our Greek Chicken Bowls—they’re packed with the same immune-friendly ingredients in a different form.

Serving Suggestions For Italian Penicillin Soup Recipe

This healing Italian Penicillin Soup Recipe can stand on its own, but here are some delicious ways to elevate the experience:

• Serve with rustic Italian bread for dipping or tearing directly into the soup.
• Add a scoop of cooked pasta like orzo, ditalini, or farro for a heartier meal.
• Top with freshly grated Pecorino Romano or Parmesan cheese for a cheesy twist.
• Add a pinch of chili flakes or red pepper oil for a warming kick.
• Serve with a side of roasted vegetables or a small arugula salad dressed with lemon and olive oil.

This version of Italian Penicillin Soup Recipe is as satisfying to make as it is to eat. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, a loved one who’s under the weather, or just want to nourish your body from the inside out, this soup delivers on all fronts.

Tips to Customize the Italian Penicillin Soup Recipe

One of the best things about Italian Penicillin Soup Recipe is its adaptability. Whether you’re vegetarian, watching sodium intake, or simply want to adjust the flavors to suit your palate, there are many ways to tweak this recipe without sacrificing its healing powers.

Making It Vegetarian For Italian Penicillin Soup Recipe

Swap the Chicken for Legumes or Mushrooms

To make a vegetarian version of this Italian Penicillin Soup Recipe, replace the chicken with protein-rich legumes such as cannellini beans or chickpeas. These will add bulk and nourishment while maintaining the Mediterranean flavor profile.

Use Vegetable Broth with Mushroom Base

Choose a hearty vegetable broth, ideally with dried or fresh shiitake or cremini mushrooms to mimic the umami depth that chicken provides. Mushrooms also offer their own immune-supporting benefits.

Extra Healing Boosters For Italian Penicillin Soup Recipe

Include additional anti-inflammatory vegetables like zucchini, leeks, or sweet potatoes. Add turmeric for color and immune support, and use miso paste or nutritional yeast for extra savoriness.

🥦 Tip: Blend a portion of the broth with some of the vegetables to thicken the soup naturally without cream or flour.

Spice and Flavor Adjustments

Add Heat with Red Chili Flakes

If you like a little warmth, a pinch of red chili flakes or a sliced red pepper can elevate the flavor and open up sinuses—a perfect remedy during cold season.

Citrus Variations

Instead of lemon, try orange zest for a subtle sweetness or lime juice for a unique citrusy twist. Both enhance flavor while still supporting digestion and immunity.

Experiment with Fresh Herbs

Italian staples like marjoram, rosemary, and sage can also be used. Adding fresh herbs at the end of cooking preserves their delicate oils and maximizes flavor.

For veggie-forward meal inspiration, you’ll love our bright and crisp Pear Salad — a perfect side to your soup.

Storage and Freezing Tips

Refrigerator Storage

Store leftover soup in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 4–5 days. The flavors often deepen overnight, making it even better the next day.

Freezer-Friendly Instructions For Italian Penicillin Soup Recipe

Italian Penicillin Soup Recipe freezes beautifully. Cool the Italian Penicillin Soup Recipe completely, transfer to freezer-safe containers (leaving room for expansion), and freeze for up to 3 months. For best results, freeze without pasta or greens, and add those fresh when reheating.

Reheating Tips For Italian Penicillin Soup Recipe

Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat. If frozen, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. Add fresh parsley, lemon juice, or a splash of olive oil before serving to revive the flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To get the full health benefits and rich flavor of Italian Penicillin Soup Recipe, avoid these common pitfalls that can turn a healing elixir into a bland or mushy mess.

Overcooking the Greens

Leafy greens like spinach and kale should be added during the final minutes of cooking. Simmering them too long causes them to lose their vibrant color, nutrients, and texture. If using delicate greens like spinach, stir them in after the heat is turned off to wilt gently.

Not Layering the Flavors For Italian Penicillin Soup Recipe

Some cooks are tempted to toss everything into the pot and boil it all at once. While this may be faster, it sacrifices depth of flavor. Sautéing your aromatics first (onions, garlic, celery, carrots) in olive oil builds a flavor base that’s essential to an authentic Italian soup.

Using Low-Quality Broth

The broth is the backbone of the entire soup. Using watery or flavorless store-bought broth results in a bland final product. If you can’t make homemade broth, choose high-quality, low-sodium organic broth and enhance it with extra herbs and a splash of lemon juice.

Skipping the Acid For Italian Penicillin Soup Recipe

Many forget to add an acid like lemon juice or vinegar. This small step at the end brightens all the flavors and balances the richness of the Italian Penicillin Soup Recipe. Without it, the soup can taste flat, no matter how well-seasoned.

Overloading with Pasta or Rice

While it’s tempting to turn this into a pasta-heavy Italian Penicillin Soup Recipe, too much pasta or rice can soak up all the broth and overpower the delicate balance. If adding grains, keep them to about ½ cup cooked per pot and cook them separately if planning to store leftovers.

🛑 Pro Tip: Keep pasta and soup separate during storage to avoid soggy textures.

These tips ensure that your Italian Penicillin Soup Recipe remains a consistent, flavorful, and healing go-to dish for any occasion—whether you’re under the weather or just craving something wholesome and satisfying.

Frequently Asked Questions

Conclusion

Italian Penicillin Soup Recipe is more than a comforting dish—it’s a tradition, a home remedy, and a warm embrace in a bowl. Crafted from healing herbs, immune-boosting vegetables, and slow-cooked chicken, this rustic soup is Italy’s answer to recovery and nourishment. Whether you’re seeking relief from a cold, a boost in wellness, or just a wholesome, feel-good meal, this recipe brings together the best of nature’s pharmacy and centuries of culinary wisdom.

From the bubbling broth to the vibrant greens and earthy aromatics, every spoonful tells a story of resilience and warmth. With the tips, ingredient insights, and customizable variations we’ve covered, you now have everything you need to create your own version of this timeless remedy.

So next time you’re feeling a little under the weather—or even just hungry for something soulful—remember that Italian Penicillin Soup Recipe might be just what the doctor (or nonna!) ordered.

Italian Penicillin Soup Recipe

A traditional Italian remedy soup packed with bone-in chicken, fresh vegetables, leafy greens, olive oil, herbs, and healing ingredients like garlic and lemon. This immune-boosting, anti-inflammatory soup is comforting, wholesome, and easy to make.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 1 hour hr 30 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr 50 minutes mins

Course Soup, Remedy, Dinner

Cuisine Italian

Servings 8

Calories 320 kcal

Equipment

• Large stockpot or Dutch oven
• Sharp chef’s knife
• Cutting board
• Wooden spoon
• Soup ladle
• Fine mesh strainer (optional, for clear broth)

Ingredients

  

• 1 whole chicken 3–4 lbs or 6–8 bone-in chicken thighs
• 8 cups chicken broth or bone broth
• 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• 1 large onion chopped
• 4 –5 garlic cloves minced
• 2 carrots chopped
• 2 celery stalks chopped
• 1 fennel bulb sliced
• 2 cups spinach kale, or escarole, chopped
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp fresh thyme or ½ tsp dried
• 1 tsp fresh basil chopped (optional)
• 2 bay leaves
• 1- inch fresh ginger grated (optional)
• Zest and juice of 1 lemon
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley chopped, for garnish
• Optional: Parmesan cheese chili flakes, pastina or orzo (cooked separately)

Instructions

 

• Sauté Aromatics: In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion, carrot, and celery. Sauté 6–8 minutes until soft and golden.
• Add garlic, fennel, ginger (if using), oregano, thyme, and basil. Cook another 2–3 minutes until fragrant.
• Add Chicken & Broth: Place whole chicken or chicken thighs into the pot. Pour in broth. Add bay leaves. Bring to a boil, then reduce to simmer.
• Simmer: Simmer uncovered for 60–75 minutes. If using a whole chicken, remove, shred meat, discard bones/skin, and return meat to the pot.
• Add Greens: Stir in chopped spinach, kale, or escarole. Cook 5–10 more minutes until wilted but vibrant.
• Season: Add lemon zest and juice. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
• Serve: Garnish with parsley, a drizzle of olive oil, optional Parmesan, and chili flakes. Serve hot with crusty bread or a scoop of pastina/orzo.

Notes

Use high-quality broth for best flavor if not making your own.

Add greens toward the end to avoid overcooking.

To make vegetarian: swap chicken with white beans and use mushroom or vegetable broth.

Optional: Add turmeric or miso paste for extra healing benefits.

Keyword Italian penicillin soup recipe, healing chicken soup, Italian chicken soup, soup for cold, natural flu remedy, Mediterranean chicken broth