Sicilian Chicken Soup

If you’re looking for a cozy meal to warm your heart and soul, then this Sicilian Chicken Soup is just what you need. It’s a recipe that has been passed down through my family, and every time I make it, I’m reminded of the laughter and love shared around the dinner table. The blend of tender chicken, vibrant veggies, and comforting ditalini pasta makes it perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. Plus, there’s nothing quite like a steaming bowl of homemade soup on a chilly day!

This recipe is incredibly versatile and forgiving, making it a favorite for both seasoned cooks and kitchen newcomers alike. You can easily whip it up in under an hour, and trust me when I say that everyone will be asking for seconds!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and straightforward ingredients, you’ll have this delightful soup on the table in no time.
• Family-Friendly Appeal: Kids love the soft pasta and tender chicken, making it a hit with everyone from toddlers to grandparents.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: This soup tastes even better the next day! Perfect for meal prep or leftovers.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of fresh vegetables and herbs ensures every spoonful is bursting with flavor.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients for our Sicilian Chicken Soup. These are items you probably already have in your pantry or can easily find at your local grocery store.

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 the Finish

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

Variations

This Sicilian Chicken Soup is wonderfully flexible! Here are some ideas if you want to mix things up:

• Add Extra Greens: Toss in some spinach or kale during the last few minutes of cooking for added nutrition.
• Spice It Up: If you enjoy heat, add some crushed red pepper flakes for a zesty kick.
• Swap the Protein: Use turkey thighs or even cooked shredded rotisserie chicken for a quicker option.
• Vegan Option: Substitute chicken with chickpeas or lentils and use vegetable stock instead of chicken stock.

How to Make Sicilian Chicken Soup

Step 1: Combine the Ingredients

In a large soup pot (at least 6-quart), combine the chicken thighs with onions, celery, carrots, bell pepper, potatoes, garlic, diced tomatoes, bay leaves, and salt. This mix creates a flavorful base that will infuse your soup with deliciousness.

Step 2: Add Stock and Simmer

Pour in the chicken stock and water. Don’t forget to season with black pepper! Cover the pot 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 lovely flavors to meld together while cooking the chicken until it’s tender.

Step 3: Cook the Pasta

After removing the chicken from the pot with tongs—be careful as it will be hot—add in your ditalini pasta. Let it cook for about 13-15 minutes until tender. Remember to stir occasionally so that pasta doesn’t stick together!

Step 4: Shred the Chicken

While your pasta cooks away happily in that bubbling broth, use two forks to shred your cooked chicken meat from its skin and bones. Then return that delightful shredded chicken back into the pot. This step adds texture and heartiness to your soup.

Step 5: Final Touches

Discard those bay leaves before serving—nobody wants to accidentally bite into one! Stir in freshly chopped parsley for brightness right before serving. Now you’re ready to ladle out generous portions of this comforting Sicilian Chicken Soup! Enjoy every spoonful of warmth!

Pro Tips for Making Sicilian Chicken Soup

Making this hearty Sicilian Chicken Soup is a breeze, especially with these helpful tips!

• Choose the Right Chicken: Opting for bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs ensures maximum flavor and tenderness. The bones help create a rich broth as they simmer, while the skin adds a delightful depth to the taste.

• Prep Veggies Ahead: To streamline your cooking process, chop all your vegetables before you start. This way, you can simply toss everything into the pot without any delays, making it a stress-free experience.

• Adjust Seasoning Gradually: Adding salt and pepper gradually allows you to control the flavor profile of your soup. Start with less and taste as you go, ensuring that you achieve the perfect balance to suit your palate.

• Don’t Rush the Simmering: Letting your soup simmer properly allows flavors to meld beautifully. Take your time with this step; it’s what transforms simple ingredients into a comforting masterpiece.

• Store Leftovers Wisely: If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. You can also freeze portions for later enjoyment—just remember to leave some space in the container for expansion.

How to Serve Sicilian Chicken Soup

Presenting your delicious Sicilian Chicken Soup is just as important as making it! Here are some delightful serving suggestions that will impress your family and friends.

Garnishes

• Fresh Italian parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley not only adds a pop of color but also brings a refreshing brightness to each bowl.
• Lemon zest: A touch of lemon zest can elevate the flavors significantly, providing a zesty finish that complements the soup beautifully.
• Grated Parmesan alternative: For those who enjoy cheesy flavors without dairy, consider using a plant-based Parmesan alternative for an added savory layer.

Side Dishes

• Crusty Bread: A warm loaf of crusty bread is perfect for dipping into your soup. Its chewy texture complements the hearty broth and makes every bite more enjoyable.
• Simple Green Salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a vinaigrette dressing offers a refreshing contrast to the warmth of the soup.
• Garlic Breadsticks: Soft and buttery garlic breadsticks make an excellent accompaniment. Their flavor pairs wonderfully with the savory notes of the chicken soup.
• Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables add extra nutrients and flavor to your meal while enhancing its overall presentation.

Enjoy your warm bowl of Sicilian Chicken Soup alongside these garnishes and side dishes for a truly comforting dining experience!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Sicilian Chicken Soup is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make a large batch to enjoy throughout the week, making it a great option for busy days.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the soup to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer the soup to airtight containers.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Freezing

• Pour cooled soup into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags.
• Leave some space at the top for expansion as it freezes.
• Label and date the containers before placing them in the freezer. It will keep well for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen soup overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally.
• Add a splash of water or stock if needed to loosen the soup.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making Sicilian Chicken Soup!

Can I use different types of chicken for Sicilian Chicken Soup?

Absolutely! While this recipe calls for bone-in chicken thighs, you can use boneless chicken breasts or even rotisserie chicken. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.

How long does Sicilian Chicken Soup last in the fridge?

Sicilian Chicken Soup can last up to 4 days in the fridge when stored properly in an airtight container. Enjoy it throughout the week!

What can I serve with my Sicilian Chicken Soup?

This comforting soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, a fresh salad, or even a side of garlic bread.

Can I make Sicilian Chicken Soup vegetarian?

Yes! To make it vegetarian, replace chicken with chickpeas or your favorite plant-based protein and use vegetable stock instead of chicken stock.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this delightful Sicilian Chicken Soup as much as I do! It’s not just a recipe; it’s a warm hug in a bowl that nourishes both body and soul. Whether you’re sharing it with loved ones or savoring it solo, may each spoonful bring comfort and joy. Happy cooking!