When the cold hits, nothing warms the soul quite like Italian Penicillin Chicken Soup. This hearty dish brings comfort and flavor to your table, perfect for chilly nights or when you need a pick-me-up. I’ll guide you through simple ingredients and easy steps to make this classic recipe. Get ready to savor each spoonful of warmth and goodness that will have you feeling better in no time!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Comforting and Hearty: This soup is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for cold days or when you’re feeling under the weather.
- Rich in Flavor: The combination of herbs and fresh ingredients creates a depth of flavor that warms the soul.
- Easy to Make: With simple steps and minimal prep, anyone can whip up this delicious soup in no time.
- Versatile and Customizable: You can easily adapt this recipe by adding your favorite vegetables or spices to make it your own.
Ingredients
List of Ingredients
– Whole chicken and broth details
– 1 whole chicken (about 3-4 lbs), cut into pieces
– 8 cups low-sodium chicken broth
– Vegetables and herbs required
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 3 medium carrots, diced
– 2 celery stalks, diced
– 1 cup diced tomatoes, fresh or canned (drained)
– 1 cup acini di pepe or small pasta
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– Seasoning and garnish items
– 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
– Zest of 1 lemon
This soup is all about comfort. The whole chicken gives the broth a rich taste. Use low-sodium broth for a healthier option. Fresh veggies bring color and flavor. The onions and garlic are key to a savory base. Carrots and celery add sweetness and crunch.
I love acini di pepe for its small size. It absorbs the broth well. The herbs, oregano and basil, make it fragrant. You can add red pepper flakes for a little heat.
Don’t forget the fresh parsley! It adds brightness to the dish. A touch of lemon zest at the end gives a nice zing. Each ingredient plays a role in making this soup a cozy delight.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation Steps
1. Sautéing the aromatics
Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook them for about 3-4 minutes. They should become soft and fragrant. This step builds the base flavor of your soup.
2. Cooking chicken and vegetables
After the onion and garlic are ready, add the diced carrots and celery. Cook these for another 5 minutes. They will start to soften and blend with the aromatics. Next, pour in the low-sodium chicken broth and add the chicken pieces. Bring the pot to a boil, then lower the heat to a simmer. Stir in the diced tomatoes, oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes if you like some heat. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Let the soup simmer for about 25-30 minutes. The chicken should become tender and fully cooked. Use a slotted spoon to take out the chicken pieces.
3. Shredding chicken and adding pasta
Once the chicken has cooled a bit, shred the meat off the bones. Discard the skin and bones. Return the shredded chicken back to the pot. Now, add the acini di pepe or your choice of small pasta. Cook it according to the package instructions, usually about 8-10 minutes, until it is al dente. Once the pasta is done, remove the pot from heat. Stir in the lemon zest and freshly chopped parsley. This adds a fresh burst of flavor. Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning if needed. Serve it hot in bowls, garnished with more parsley or a sprinkle of lemon zest on top.
Tips & Tricks
Cooking Tips
– How to enhance flavor: To boost the taste, use fresh herbs like parsley and basil. They add brightness. Zest a lemon for extra zing. It lifts the soup and makes it vibrant.
– Best practices for chicken cooking: Always cook chicken until it is tender and fully done. Use a meat thermometer. The safe temperature is 165°F. Remove the skin for a lighter soup. This keeps it healthy.
– Importance of simmering: Simmering allows the flavors to blend. It makes the soup rich and tasty. Keep the heat low and cover the pot. This slow cooking method works wonders.
Presentation Tips
– Serving suggestions: Serve the soup hot in deep bowls. Pair it with crusty bread or a fresh salad. This makes a great meal.
– Garnishing ideas: Add chopped parsley on top for color. A sprinkle of lemon zest brightens the dish. You can also use a drizzle of olive oil for a touch of elegance.
Pro Tips
- Use Homemade Broth: For the best flavor, try using homemade chicken broth. It enhances the taste of the soup significantly and is healthier than store-bought options.
- Skim the Fat: After simmering, let the soup cool slightly and skim off any excess fat from the surface. This makes for a lighter, healthier soup.
- Customize Your Veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or green beans for extra nutrition and flavor. Just add them in the last few minutes of cooking.
- Perfect Pasta Cooking: To prevent the pasta from becoming mushy, cook it separately and add it to each bowl just before serving. This keeps the texture perfect!
Variations
Ingredient Substitutions
– Alternatives for chicken: If you want a different flavor, use turkey or even tofu. These options work well and stay hearty.
– Vegetable variations: You can swap out carrots or celery. Try using zucchini or green beans instead. They add nice color and crunch.
– Pasta options: Instead of acini di pepe, use any small pasta like orzo or ditalini. Each type gives a unique twist to your soup.
Flavor Adjustments
– Adjusting spice levels: If you like it spicy, add more red pepper flakes. For a milder taste, skip them completely.
– Adding different herbs: Try fresh thyme or rosemary for new flavors. They pair beautifully with chicken and veggies. You can also add a bay leaf while cooking for depth.
Storage Info
Refrigeration Guidelines
To store leftovers, let the soup cool to room temperature. Then, transfer it to an airtight container. Make sure to leave some space at the top of the container. This space lets the soup expand as it cools. You can keep it in the fridge for up to four days.
I recommend using glass containers or BPA-free plastic. These keep the soup fresh and make it easy to see what you have. Label the container with the date, so you know when you made it.
Freezing Instructions
If you want to freeze the soup, use a freezer-safe container. Leave about an inch of space at the top. This space allows for expansion when freezing. The soup can last in the freezer for up to three months.
When you’re ready to eat, thaw the soup overnight in the fridge. You can also use the microwave for quick thawing. To reheat, pour the soup into a pot and heat on low. Stir often to keep it from sticking. If the soup is too thick, add a little water or broth to thin it out.
FAQs
What is “Italian Penicillin Chicken Soup”?
Italian Penicillin Chicken Soup is a warm, hearty dish. It uses fresh chicken, veggies, and herbs. The soup is flavorful and comforting, especially on cold days.
How can I make this soup healthier?
To make this soup healthier, use less oil or broth. You can add more veggies like spinach or kale. Choose whole-grain pasta for extra fiber.
Can I use rotisserie chicken?
Yes, you can use rotisserie chicken. It saves time and still tastes great. Just shred the chicken and add it to the soup after cooking the broth and veggies.
Is it possible to make this soup ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can make this soup ahead of time. Just store it in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat it on the stove before serving.
What are the best side dishes to serve with it?
Some great side dishes include crusty bread or a fresh salad. You can also pair it with garlic bread for a tasty twist. Enjoy your meal!
This blog post covered how to make a flavorful chicken soup. We discussed ingredients, from whole chicken to fresh herbs. The step-by-step instructions guided you through sautéing, cooking, and shredding the chicken. I shared tips for boosting flavor and serving beautifully. You also learned about variations, storage, and answers to common questions.
You can now create your perfect bowl of comfort. Enjoy the warmth and taste of this soup. Make it your own, and share it with friends and family. Happy cookin
