Need a soothing pick-me-up? This easy homemade Italian Penicillin Soup made with pastina and chicken is a quick weeknight dinner family favorite – Save for later

Italian Penicillin Soup (Pastina Chicken Soup) – The Ultimate Comfort Food

Introduction

There’s nothing quite like a warm, comforting bowl of Italian Penicillin Soup, also lovingly referred to as Pastina Chicken Soup, to soothe the soul and cure what ails you. This traditional Italian recipe is a masterclass in simplicity, utilizing everyday ingredients to create a dish that’s not only incredibly flavorful but also remarkably easy to prepare. The beauty of this soup lies in its accessibility and versatility, allowing you to get creative with the ingredients you have on hand. Whether you’re nursing a cold, looking for a hearty meal to warm up on a chilly day, or simply seeking a delicious and comforting dish to share with loved ones, Italian Penicillin Soup is the perfect remedy.

Why This Works

Flavor balance and ingredient accessibility: This soup strikes a perfect balance between the richness of chicken, the comfort of pasta, and the freshness of vegetables, all of which are easily found in most supermarkets.
Ease of preparation: The steps to prepare Italian Penicillin Soup are straightforward and require minimal effort, making it an ideal choice for a quick weeknight dinner or a lazy Sunday afternoon.
Impressive results with minimal effort: Despite its simplicity, this soup yields impressive results, with a depth of flavor that belies the ease of its preparation, sure to impress family and friends alike.

Key Ingredients

The main ingredients in Italian Penicillin Soup include pastina (small, star-shaped pasta), chicken breast or thighs, onions, carrots, celery, garlic, chicken broth, and olive oil. For added flavor, you can also include diced tomatoes, fresh basil, and grated Parmesan cheese. Practical substitutions can be made based on personal preference or dietary needs, such as using vegetable broth for a vegetarian version or substituting the pasta with gluten-free alternatives for those with gluten intolerance.

Instructions

Step 1: Begin by chopping the onions, carrots, and celery into small pieces. Mince the garlic and set it aside. Measure out the pastina and have the chicken broth ready.
Step 2: In a large pot, heat a couple of tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onions, carrots, and celery, and sauté until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
Step 3: Add the chicken to the pot and cook until it’s browned on all sides and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the pot and set it aside. Add the chicken broth to the pot, scraping the bottom to release any browned bits. Bring the broth to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let simmer.
Step 4: Once the broth is simmering, add the pastina to the pot and cook according to the package instructions, usually about 5-7 minutes or until al dente. While the pasta is cooking, shred or chop the cooked chicken into bite-sized pieces and return it to the pot. Season the soup with salt, pepper, and any other desired herbs or spices. Serve hot, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of fresh basil if desired.

Handy Tips

For an extra boost of flavor, use homemade chicken broth if possible, or add a teaspoon of dried basil and thyme to the store-bought broth.
Avoid overcooking the pastina, as it can become mushy and unappetizing.
Consider adding other vegetables like diced bell peppers or sliced mushrooms to the pot for added flavor and nutrition.

Heat Control

Maintaining the right temperature is crucial for cooking the perfect Italian Penicillin Soup. After bringing the broth to a boil, reduce the heat to a simmer (low-medium heat) to prevent the soup from boiling over and to ensure that the pastina cooks evenly. The ideal temperature for simmering is between 180°F and 190°F. Cooking time may vary based on the type of pasta and personal preference for doneness, but generally, the soup should be ready within 20-25 minutes of simmering.

Crunch Factor

The texture of Italian Penicillin Soup should be comforting and slightly thick, with a bit of crunch from the vegetables. To achieve the perfect texture, cook the vegetables until they’re tender but still crisp, and avoid overcooking the pastina. If desired, add some crispy croutons or a sprinkle of toasted breadcrumbs on top of the soup for an extra crunch.

Pro Kitchen Tricks

Use a high-quality chicken broth as the base for added depth of flavor.
Don’t overfill the pot, as the soup can foam up and boil over during cooking.
For easier cleanup, cook the chicken and vegetables in a Dutch oven or a pot with a heavy bottom, which distributes heat evenly and prevents scorching.

Storage Tips

Leftover Italian Penicillin Soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently over low heat, adding a bit of water or broth if the soup has thickened too much.
The soup can also be frozen for up to 2 months. Freeze in airtight, shallow containers or freezer bags, and reheat from frozen, adding water or broth as needed to achieve the desired consistency.
For best results, store the soup in glass or stainless steel containers, as these materials won’t impart flavors or react with the acidity in the tomatoes (if using).

Gift Packaging Ideas

If you’re considering gifting Italian Penicillin Soup, especially during the cold and flu season, it makes a thoughtful and comforting present. Package the cooled soup in quart-sized mason jars, seal tightly, and decorate with a ribbon and a gift tag that includes reheating instructions. You can also include a side of crusty bread or a bag of homemade croutons for a complete gift.

Flavor Variations

🌟 Different spices: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick, or use smoked paprika for a smoky depth of flavor.
🌟 Creative toppings: Offer a variety of toppings such as diced onions, shredded cheese, sour cream, or chives to let everyone customize their bowl.
🌟 Ingredient swaps: Substitute the chicken with turkey or use vegetable broth and add roasted vegetables for a vegetarian version.

Troubleshooting

Texture problems: If the soup becomes too thick, add a bit of water or broth. If it’s too thin, simmer it for a few more minutes or add a slurry made from flour and water.
Ingredient replacements: If you don’t have pastina, you can substitute it with other small pasta shapes like ditalini or elbow macaroni.
Over/undercooking signs: Check the pasta for doneness by tasting it; it should be al dente. If the chicken is not cooked through, it will appear pink in the center; continue cooking until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.

FAQs

Can I freeze it? Yes, Italian Penicillin Soup freezes well. Cool it completely, then freeze in airtight containers or freezer bags.
Is it gluten-free? The soup can be made gluten-free by using gluten-free pasta and ensuring that the chicken broth is gluten-free.
Can I double the recipe? Yes, you can easily double or triple the recipe to feed a larger crowd. Just be sure to use a large enough pot to accommodate the increased volume.

Conclusion

Italian Penicillin Soup is more than just a meal; it’s a remedy for the soul, a comfort that warms the heart as much as the belly. With its simple yet flavorful ingredients and straightforward preparation, it’s a dish that anyone can make and enjoy. Feel free to experiment with different spices, vegetables, and toppings to make it your own, and don’t hesitate to share it with others, whether as a gift or as a centerpiece for a family dinner. As you savor each spoonful of this delicious and comforting soup, remember that sometimes, the simplest recipes are the ones that bring us the most joy and comfort.

Italian Chicken Pastina Comfort Soup Recipe