Sicilian Chicken Soup

If you’re looking for a comforting dish that warms both the body and soul, my Sicilian Chicken Soup is just the ticket. This recipe has been a cherished part of my family gatherings, filling our home with delightful aromas and laughter. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something hearty, or for cozy weekends spent with loved ones around the table.

What makes this soup truly special is how it balances tender chicken with vibrant vegetables and ditalini pasta, all simmered to perfection. Trust me, once you take that first spoonful, you’ll understand why it has become a favorite in our home!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to prepare: With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can have this delicious meal on the table in less than an hour!
• Family-friendly: This soup is packed with flavors that even picky eaters will love. Kids enjoy the fun pasta shapes while parents appreciate the wholesome ingredients.
• Make-ahead convenience: It’s great for meal prep! Make a big batch and enjoy tasty leftovers throughout the week.
• Deliciously satisfying: The blend of chicken and veggies creates a rich flavor profile that goes beyond your average soup.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering simple, wholesome ingredients is one of the best parts of making Sicilian Chicken Soup! Here’s what you’ll need to create this comforting bowl of goodness:

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 Sicilian Chicken Soup is its flexibility! You can easily adjust it to suit your taste or whatever you have on hand. Here are some fun variations to consider:

• Swap the protein: If you’re in the mood for something different, try using boneless skinless chicken breasts or even turkey thighs for a lighter version.
• Add more greens: Toss in some spinach or kale during the last few minutes of cooking for added nutrition and color.
• Change up the pasta: Use any small pasta shape you prefer—ditalini is fun but elbow macaroni or small shells work great too!
• Spice it up: If you like a bit of heat, add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños when sautéing your veggies.

How to Make Sicilian Chicken Soup

Step 1: Combine Ingredients

In a large soup pot—make sure it’s at least 6-quarts—combine your chicken thighs with onions, celery, carrots, bell pepper, potatoes, garlic, tomatoes, bay leaves, and salt. This is where all those vibrant flavors start mingling together!

Step 2: Simmer for Flavor

Add your chicken stock and water next. Season everything with fresh black pepper to taste. Cover your pot and bring it all to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 30 minutes until your chicken becomes tender and falls off the bone easily. This slow cooking helps meld all those wonderful flavors.

Step 3: Cook the Pasta

After removing your chicken from the pot with tongs—this can be a bit messy but oh so worth it—add in your ditalini pasta. Continue cooking for another 13-15 minutes while stirring occasionally so that nothing sticks to the bottom of your pot.

Step 4: Shred and Return Chicken

While your pasta cooks away happily in that bubbling broth, take two forks and shred the chicken apart after discarding skin and bones. Return that juicy shredded chicken back into the pot—your soup is almost ready!

Step 5: Final Touches

Finally, remember to discard those bay leaves before serving up this delightful creation. Stir in fresh parsley right before serving for an aromatic finish that brightens up this hearty dish.

Now grab a big bowl of Sicilian Chicken Soup and enjoy every comforting bite!

Pro Tips for Making Sicilian Chicken Soup

Making Sicilian Chicken Soup is a delightful experience, and with a few insider tips, you can elevate your soup to a whole new level!

• Choose quality chicken – Using fresh, high-quality chicken thighs will enhance the flavor of your soup. Bone-in cuts add richness to the broth, making it more savory and satisfying.
• Don’t rush the simmer – Allowing your soup to simmer gently for at least 30 minutes lets all those delicious flavors meld together. This patience pays off with a deeper, more complex taste.
• Adjust seasoning gradually – Season your soup towards the end of cooking. This way, you can control the flavor better and avoid over-salting right from the start. Always taste as you go!
• Add vegetables at different times – If you prefer certain veggies to have a bit more bite, add them at different stages of cooking. For example, add bell peppers toward the end to keep them crisp while letting heartier vegetables like potatoes cook longer.
• Make it ahead of time – Soups often taste even better the next day! Make your Sicilian Chicken Soup in advance and store it in the fridge; just remember to save some parsley for a fresh garnish when serving.

How to Serve Sicilian Chicken Soup

Serving this comforting bowl of Sicilian Chicken Soup can turn a simple meal into a delightful dining experience. Here’s how you can present it beautifully!

Garnishes

• Fresh Italian parsley – A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley adds a vibrant color and fresh flavor that brightens each spoonful.
• Grated Parmesan cheese – Although not traditional in every Italian dish, a light dusting of Parmesan offers a creamy richness that complements the soup beautifully.

Side Dishes

• Crusty Italian bread – A warm slice of crusty bread is perfect for dipping into your soup, soaking up all those rich flavors.
• Simple green salad – A refreshing salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a balsamic vinaigrette balances the hearty nature of the soup beautifully.
• Garlic breadsticks – These soft, buttery sticks are great for munching alongside your soup, adding an extra layer of comfort.
• Roasted vegetables – A side of roasted seasonal vegetables brings color and nutrition to your meal while enhancing the overall flavor profile.

Enjoy every warm and cozy bite of this Sicilian Chicken Soup—it’s bound to be a hit with family and friends alike!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Sicilian Chicken Soup is perfect for meal prep! Making a big batch not only saves you time during busy weeks but also ensures you have a cozy, hearty meal ready to warm your soul whenever you need it.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• Enjoy it within 3-4 days for the best flavor and freshness.
• Be sure to let the soup cool down to room temperature before sealing it up.

Freezing

• Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it into freezer-safe containers or resealable bags.
• Leave some space at the top of containers as the soup will expand when frozen.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for optimal taste.

Reheating

• For best results, thaw the soup in the refrigerator overnight if frozen.
• Reheat on the stove over medium heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally.
• You can also microwave individual portions; just be sure to stir halfway through for even heating.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making Sicilian Chicken Soup!

Can I use boneless chicken for Sicilian Chicken Soup?

Yes, you can use boneless chicken thighs or breasts! Just adjust your cooking time accordingly, as boneless cuts tend to cook faster.

What makes this Sicilian Chicken Soup different from other chicken soups?

This Sicilian Chicken Soup features a delightful blend of vegetables and Italian flavors that give it a unique twist compared to traditional chicken soups. The addition of ditalini pasta adds heartiness and texture.

How long does Sicilian Chicken Soup last in the fridge?

Sicilian Chicken Soup can last up to 3-4 days in the fridge when stored properly in an airtight container.

Can I add more vegetables to this Sicilian Chicken Soup?

Absolutely! Feel free to add any of your favorite vegetables like zucchini or spinach. They make great additions and enhance nutrition!

Final Thoughts

I hope this Sicilian Chicken Soup warms your home and fills your heart with comfort! It’s such a wonderful dish that brings family together around the table. Enjoy making it as much as I enjoyed sharing this recipe with you. Happy cooking!