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Cozy Italian Penicillin Soup

Italian Penicillin Soup - featured image

A hearty and comforting soup packed with immune-boosting ingredients like chicken, garlic, and fresh herbs. Perfect for sick days or when you need a cozy meal.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
  • 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth
  • 2 carrots, peeled and sliced into rounds
  • 2 celery stalks, thinly sliced
  • 1 medium yellow onion, finely diced
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 handful fresh basil leaves
  • 1 lemon, freshly squeezed
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
  • Grated Parmesan cheese, optional
  • Pasta or rice, optional

Instructions

  1. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large soup pot over medium heat.
  2. Add the diced onion and sautΓ© for 3-4 minutes until softened and translucent.
  3. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds, just until fragrant.
  4. Add the sliced carrots and celery, stirring to combine. Cook for another 5 minutes until slightly softened.
  5. Place the chicken thighs or breasts into the pot. Season generously with salt and pepper.
  6. Pour in 6 cups of chicken broth, making sure the chicken is fully submerged.
  7. Add 1 teaspoon of dried oregano and a handful of fresh basil leaves. Stir gently to combine.
  8. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cover the pot and let it cook for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is tender and fully cooked.
  9. Remove the chicken from the pot and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the pot.
  10. If desired, add cooked pasta or rice to the soup for extra heartiness. Stir well.
  11. Squeeze the juice of one lemon into the soup and mix thoroughly. Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
  12. Serve the soup hot, garnished with chopped parsley and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan if desired.

Notes

Use fresh herbs for better flavor. Let the soup simmer slowly for tender chicken and well-blended flavors. Freeze portions for easy reheating later.

Nutrition

Keywords: Italian soup, chicken soup, comfort food, immune-boosting soup, healthy soup, quick soup recipe