Sicilian Chicken Soup

If you’re looking for the ultimate comfort food, look no further! This Sicilian Chicken Soup is not just a recipe; it’s a warm hug in a bowl. Perfect for chilly evenings or busy weeknights, this soup offers tender chicken, vibrant veggies, and cozy ditalini pasta that will make your family feel right at home. It’s my go-to dish for gatherings and those days when you just need something hearty and delicious.

This soup is incredibly special to me because it combines simple, wholesome ingredients that are likely already in your pantry. With each spoonful, you’ll find a blend of flavors that celebrate Italian cuisine. Plus, it’s quick to prepare, making it ideal for anyone looking to whip up a nourishing meal without spending all day in the kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This Sicilian Chicken Soup comes together in just under an hour. Perfect for those busy nights!
• Family-Friendly: Packed with vegetables and flavorful chicken, this soup is loved by both kids and adults.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can easily prep this soup ahead of time. It tastes even better the next day!
• Healthy Ingredients: Loaded with fresh veggies and lean protein, it’s a nutritious option that doesn’t skimp on flavor.
• Versatile: Whether you’re serving it as an everyday meal or at a gathering, this soup fits any occasion beautifully.

Ingredients You’ll Need

When it comes to making Sicilian Chicken Soup, simplicity is key! The ingredients are wholesome and easy to find. You’ll love how each component contributes to the comforting flavor profile of this delightful dish.

For the Soup

• 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
• 1 (32 oz) carton low-sodium chicken stock
• 4 cups water (or chicken stock)
• 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 recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to customize it according to your taste preferences or what you have on hand.

• Swap the protein: Instead of chicken thighs, try using skinless chicken breast or even turkey for a different twist.
• Add more veggies: Toss in some zucchini or spinach if you’re looking to sneak in some extra greens!
• Change the pasta: If you don’t have ditalini on hand, any small pasta shape will work perfectly.
• Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or some Italian seasoning for an extra kick!

How to Make Sicilian Chicken Soup

Step 1: Combine the Ingredients

In a large soup pot (at least 6-quart), combine your chicken with onions, celery, carrots, bell pepper, potatoes, garlic, diced tomatoes, bay leaves, and salt. This initial gathering of ingredients allows all their flavors to meld together beautifully while cooking.

Step 2: Simmer & Cook the Chicken

Add the chicken stock and water to your pot. Season with black pepper to taste. Cover the pot and bring everything to a boil before reducing the heat to low. Let it simmer partially covered for about 30 minutes until the chicken is tender and easily falls off the bone. This slow cooking process really enhances the flavor!

Step 3: Add Pasta

Once your chicken is ready, stir in the ditalini pasta. Continue cooking for another 13-15 minutes until the pasta is tender. Don’t forget to give it an occasional stir so nothing sticks!

Step 4: Shred Chicken & Final Touches

While the pasta cooks away happily in your pot, use two forks to shred the cooked chicken after removing it from the pot—discarding skin and bones as you go. Return that delicious shredded chicken back into your soup pot along with tasting those veggies for doneness.

Step 5: Serve & Enjoy!

Finally, discard those bay leaves! Stir in freshly chopped parsley right before serving. Ladle out generous portions of your Sicilian Chicken Soup into bowls—and enjoy every comforting bite!

Pro Tips for Making Sicilian Chicken Soup

Making Sicilian Chicken Soup is a delightful experience, and with a few handy tips, you can elevate your soup to perfection!

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs not only enhance the flavor but also add brightness and nutrition to your soup. The freshness makes each spoonful more vibrant and satisfying.

• Adjust seasoning gradually: Start with less salt and black pepper and adjust to taste as the soup simmers. This ensures that you don’t overpower the natural flavors of the chicken and veggies.

• Let it simmer longer: If time permits, let your soup simmer a bit longer than the recipe calls for. This deepens the flavors and makes for an even richer broth.

• Store leftovers properly: If you have leftover soup, cool it down quickly, then store it in an airtight container in the fridge. This helps preserve its flavor and texture for future meals.

• Add greens for extra nutrition: Tossing in some spinach or kale during the last few minutes of cooking adds color, nutrients, and a deliciously earthy taste to your soup.

How to Serve Sicilian Chicken Soup

Presenting your Sicilian Chicken Soup can be just as enjoyable as making it! Here are some ideas to make serving this comforting dish a little more special.

Garnishes

• Fresh parsley: A sprinkle of chopped Italian parsley not only adds a pop of color but also enhances the freshness of the dish.
• Grated Parmesan cheese: A light dusting of dairy-free cheese can bring a lovely creaminess that complements the flavors beautifully.

Side Dishes

• Crusty bread: A warm loaf of crusty bread is perfect for dipping into your hearty soup. It adds texture and helps soak up all that delicious broth.
• Mixed green salad: A light salad with mixed greens, tomatoes, cucumbers, and a tangy vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the richness of the soup.
• Garlic knots: These fluffy, buttery bites are not only fun to eat but also pair wonderfully with any bowl of soup. Their garlicky goodness will have everyone reaching for seconds!
• Roasted vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables can be a great side dish as they bring out natural sweetness and add depth to your meal.

With these tips, garnishes, and side dish suggestions, your Sicilian Chicken Soup will surely become a favorite go-to recipe for cozy nights in! Enjoy every warm, comforting spoonful!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Sicilian Chicken Soup is perfect for meal prep! Not only does it taste even better the next day, but it also makes for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the soup to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer to airtight containers, leaving some space at the top for expansion if freezing.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Freezing

• Portion out servings into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Label with the date and contents for easy identification.
• Freeze for up to 3 months. For best results, use within 1-2 months.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen soup overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• To reheat, pour into a pot and heat over medium until warmed through, stirring occasionally.
• Alternatively, you can microwave individual servings in a microwave-safe bowl, covered loosely, until hot.

FAQs

Got questions about making Sicilian Chicken Soup? Here are some common ones!

Can I use boneless chicken for Sicilian Chicken Soup?

Yes! While bone-in chicken thighs add rich flavor and depth to this dish, you can substitute boneless chicken pieces. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time as needed.

What makes Sicilian Chicken Soup different from regular chicken soup?

Sicilian Chicken Soup features a unique blend of vegetables like bell peppers and Italian herbs, giving it a distinct Mediterranean flavor that elevates this comforting classic.

How long does Sicilian Chicken Soup last in the fridge?

When stored properly in an airtight container, this delicious soup will last up to 4 days in the refrigerator.

Can I make Sicilian Chicken Soup vegetarian?

Absolutely! You can replace the chicken with hearty vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms and use vegetable stock instead of chicken stock for a delightful vegetarian version.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this warm and comforting Sicilian Chicken Soup as much as I do! It’s not just a meal; it’s a hug in a bowl that brings friends and family together. Whether you’re cozying up on a chilly evening or prepping meals for busy days ahead, this recipe is sure to brighten your table. Happy cooking!

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