Sicilian Chicken Soup

If you’re looking for a cozy dish that warms your heart and fills your belly, then you’ve come to the right place! This Sicilian Chicken Soup is not just any soup; it’s a hug in a bowl. Perfect for busy weeknights or comforting family gatherings, this recipe has been a favorite in my home for years. The combination of tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and ditalini pasta makes it an irresistible meal that everyone will love.

On chilly days or when someone needs a little extra care, this soup brings comfort and nourishment. It’s surprisingly easy to make from scratch, allowing you to savor each moment spent in the kitchen while creating a delicious meal for your loved ones.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick preparation: Just 10 minutes of prep time means you can get dinner on the table in no time.
• Family-friendly appeal: With its rich flavors and hearty ingredients, everyone at the table will find something to enjoy.
• Make-ahead convenience: This soup keeps well in the fridge and even tastes better the next day, making it perfect for meal prepping.
• Flavorful goodness: The blend of fresh vegetables and spices creates a delightful taste that warms you from the inside out.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering simple, wholesome ingredients is part of what makes cooking so much fun! Here’s what you need for this delightful Sicilian Chicken Soup:

For the Soup Base

• 4 bone-in-skin-on chicken thighs (2 pounds)
• 1 medium onion, chopped (about 1 cup)
• 3 celery ribs, chopped (about 2 cups)
• 3 medium carrots, chopped (about 1 1/2 cups)
• 1 large yellow bell pepper, chopped
• 2 medium russet potatoes (1 pound), peeled and cut into 3/4-inch cubes
• 4 cloves garlic, chopped
• 1 (14.5 oz) can no-salt diced tomatoes
• 2 dry bay leaves
• 1 Tbsp. kosher salt

For the Broth

• 1 (32 oz) carton low-sodium chicken stock
• 4 cups water (or chicken stock)

For Finishing Touches

• 1/2 cup dry ditalini pasta
• 1/2 cup fresh chopped Italian parsley
• Fresh black pepper, to taste

Variations

One of the best things about this Sicilian Chicken Soup is its flexibility! Feel free to mix things up based on what you have on hand or your family’s preferences.

• Add more greens: Toss in some spinach or kale for an extra boost of nutrients.
• Switch up the pasta: Try using small shells or elbow macaroni if ditalini isn’t available.
• Make it spicier: Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a little heat!
• Use different veggies: Swap out carrots or bell peppers for whatever seasonal veggies you have—zucchini works great too!

How to Make Sicilian Chicken Soup

Step 1: Prepare the Base

In a large soup pot (at least 6-quart), combine your chicken with onions, celery, carrots, bell pepper, potatoes, garlic, tomatoes, bay leaves, and salt. This step is essential because these ingredients create a flavorful base that enhances every bite of your soup.

Step 2: Add Stock and Simmer

Pour in the chicken stock and water. Season with fresh black pepper to taste. Cover and bring everything to a boil. Once boiling, reduce heat to low and let it simmer partially covered for about 30 minutes. This allows all those wonderful flavors to meld together while cooking the chicken until it’s tender and juicy.

Step 3: Cook the Pasta

After removing the chicken from the pot with tongs, add in your ditalini pasta. Continue cooking for another 13-15 minutes until tender. Be sure to stir occasionally so that the pasta doesn’t stick together; this keeps everything nice and creamy!

Step 4: Shred Chicken and Final Touches

While your pasta cooks, shred the chicken using two forks—discarding skin and bones as you go. Return that beautifully shredded chicken back into the pot. At this point, check on those veggies; they should be perfectly cooked through!

Step 5: Serve Up Deliciousness

Discard those bay leaves before stirring in fresh parsley for a pop of color and flavor. Now it’s time to serve! Ladle generous portions into bowls and watch as everyone digs in with smiles on their faces.

Enjoy every comforting spoonful of this Sicilian Chicken Soup! It’s bound to become a cherished recipe in your home too.

Pro Tips for Making Sicilian Chicken Soup

Creating the perfect bowl of Sicilian Chicken Soup is all about technique and a little love! Here are some tips to ensure your soup is simply delightful.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs make a world of difference in flavor. The brighter the veggies, the more vibrant your soup will be!

• Don’t rush the simmering: Allowing the soup to simmer slowly enhances the flavors. This gives time for the ingredients to meld together beautifully, resulting in a richer taste.

• Taste as you go: Checking the seasoning throughout cooking helps you achieve that perfect balance. It’s easier to adjust flavors gradually than to fix an over-seasoned dish at the end!

• Customize your pasta: If ditalini isn’t your favorite, feel free to swap it out for another small pasta shape, like orzo or elbow macaroni. Each type brings its unique texture and can change up the experience.

• Store leftovers properly: If you have any soup left, store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave—just be sure to add a splash of water if it thickens too much!

How to Serve Sicilian Chicken Soup

Serving Sicilian Chicken Soup is just as important as making it! A little thoughtfulness in presentation can elevate this comforting dish into something special.

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh parsley: A sprinkle of parsley not only adds color but also provides a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the soup.
• Lemon wedges: Offering lemon on the side allows guests to brighten their bowl with a squeeze of citrus, enhancing all those lovely flavors.

Side Dishes

• Crusty bread: A warm loaf of crusty bread is perfect for dipping. Its texture complements the broth beautifully and makes every bite satisfying.
• Simple green salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a balsamic vinaigrette provides a crisp contrast to the hearty soup.
• Garlic breadsticks: These are great for those who love an extra touch of flavor! Their buttery garlic goodness pairs wonderfully with every spoonful of soup.
• Roasted vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies can add another layer of flavor and nutrients while complementing the heartiness of your soup.

Enjoy your warm bowl of Sicilian Chicken Soup! It’s perfect for sharing with loved ones or savoring solo on a cozy night in.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Sicilian Chicken Soup is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy delicious homemade goodness throughout the week. It’s easy to store and reheat, making it a go-to dish for busy nights!

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the soup to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer leftovers to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Cool the soup completely, then portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Label each container with the date and type of soup.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen soup in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Heat in a pot over medium heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally.
• For microwave reheating, place in a microwave-safe bowl and heat on high in 1-minute intervals until hot.

FAQs

Here are some frequently asked questions about this warm and comforting recipe.

Can I make Sicilian Chicken Soup without chicken thighs?

Absolutely! You can substitute chicken thighs with boneless chicken breasts or even use leftover rotisserie chicken for convenience.

What makes Sicilian Chicken Soup different from regular chicken soup?

Sicilian Chicken Soup features vibrant vegetables like bell peppers and potatoes, along with ditalini pasta, giving it a unique flavor profile that sets it apart from traditional chicken soups.

How long does Sicilian Chicken Soup last in the fridge?

When stored properly in an airtight container, this soup lasts up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Can I add more veggies to my Sicilian Chicken Soup?

Definitely! Feel free to add any extra vegetables you enjoy, such as zucchini or spinach, to boost the nutrition and flavor.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find this Sicilian Chicken Soup as comforting and satisfying as I do! It’s a wonderful recipe that not only brings warmth on chilly days but also fills your home with delightful aromas. Enjoy making it for yourself and your loved ones—it’s sure to become a cherished favorite in your kitchen. Happy cooking!