Sicilian Chicken Soup

If you’re looking for a warm and comforting dish that wraps you in a cozy hug, you’ve come to the right place! My Sicilian Chicken Soup is a family favorite that brings everyone together on chilly evenings. This recipe is not just about satisfying your hunger; it’s about creating memories around the dinner table. Whether you’re busy with work or hosting a family gathering, this soup is perfect for any occasion.

It’s so easy to make, and the combination of tender chicken, fresh veggies, and ditalini pasta results in a delicious bowl of goodness. You’ll find that every spoonful is filled with flavor and warmth—perfect for those winter nights when all you want is something comforting!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to prepare: With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can get this hearty soup simmering on the stove in no time.
• Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the tender chunks of chicken and colorful veggies. It’s a hit with everyone!
• Make-ahead convenience: You can easily whip up a big batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week or freeze some for later.
• Flavor-packed goodness: The combination of fresh ingredients creates a rich taste that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather up some simple, wholesome ingredients for our Sicilian Chicken Soup! These items are easy to find and will fill your kitchen with delightful aromas as they cook.

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

This Sicilian Chicken Soup is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to make it your own with these tasty variations:

• Add more greens: Toss in some spinach or kale during the last few minutes of cooking for added nutrition and color.
• Spice it up: If you enjoy some heat, add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños before simmering.
• Swap the protein: Try using boneless skinless chicken breasts or even shredded rotisserie chicken if you’re short on time.
• Vegetarian twist: Replace chicken with chickpeas or white beans and use vegetable broth for a hearty vegetarian version.

How to Make Sicilian Chicken Soup

Step 1: Combine Ingredients

In a large soup pot (at least 6-quart), combine your chicken thighs with the onions, celery, carrots, bell pepper, potatoes, garlic, tomatoes, bay leaves, and kosher salt. This step is crucial because it allows all those wonderful flavors to meld together right from the start!

Step 2: Simmer Away

Next, pour in the low-sodium chicken stock and water. Season everything with freshly cracked black pepper. Cover your pot and bring it to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 30 minutes until your chicken is tender and falls off the bones easily. Removing the chicken at this stage helps us shred it later without making any mess in our soup!

Step 3: Add Pasta

After removing the chicken from the pot with tongs, stir in your ditalini pasta. Continue cooking for another 13-15 minutes until the pasta is tender. Remember to stir occasionally—this prevents sticking and ensures an even cook.

Step 4: Shred Chicken

While your pasta cooks away happily in its broth bath, take two forks and shred your cooked chicken. Discard any skin or bones as you go along—it’s all about keeping things light and enjoyable!

Step 5: Final Touches

Once your pasta is perfectly al dente, return your shredded chicken back into the pot. Give everything another gentle stir. Before serving up bowls of this delicious soup, don’t forget to discard those bay leaves! Stir in fresh parsley for an aromatic finish that brightens each bite.

And there you have it! Your homemade Sicilian Chicken Soup is ready to be enjoyed—perfect for cozy nights or whenever you need a little pick-me-up!

Pro Tips for Making Sicilian Chicken Soup

Making a delicious Sicilian Chicken Soup is all about the little details that elevate the dish. Here are some expert tips to ensure your soup is nothing short of perfection!

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs not only enhance the flavor but also provide a vibrant look to your soup, making it more appetizing.

• Don’t rush the simmer: Allowing the soup to simmer slowly helps meld all the flavors together, resulting in a richer taste that will warm your heart on chilly days.

• Adjust seasoning gradually: Start with less salt and black pepper, then taste as you go. This ensures you don’t overpower the natural flavors of the ingredients.

• Shred chicken when cool: Letting the chicken cool slightly before shredding makes it easier to handle and prevents burns while ensuring you keep those tender shreds intact.

• Customize with veggies: Feel free to add or substitute any vegetables based on what’s in season or what you have at home. Zucchini, green beans, or even spinach can be delightful additions.

How to Serve Sicilian Chicken Soup

Serving your Sicilian Chicken Soup can be just as rewarding as making it! Here are some ideas to help present this comforting dish beautifully.

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh basil: A sprinkle of fresh basil adds a fragrant aroma and brightens up the soup’s flavor profile.

• Grated Parmesan cheese: Although not traditional, a light dusting of vegan Parmesan can lend a creamy texture and nutty taste that complements the soup perfectly.

Side Dishes

• Crusty Italian bread: Perfect for dipping and soaking up all that delicious broth; opt for a crusty baguette or ciabatta for added texture.

• Simple green salad: A refreshing salad with mixed greens, cucumbers, and a tangy vinaigrette provides a nice contrast to the warmth of the soup.

• Garlic knots: These soft, buttery knots are great for sopping up every last drop of soup and add an extra layer of flavor.

• Roasted vegetables: Lightly seasoned roasted veggies bring a wholesome touch and are an excellent way to incorporate more nutrients into your meal.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your Sicilian Chicken Soup will surely be a hit at any gathering or cozy dinner night! Enjoy every warming spoonful!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Sicilian Chicken Soup is perfect for meal prep, making it easy to enjoy comforting bowls throughout the week. You can prepare it ahead of time and store it, so you always have a delicious meal ready to go.

Storing Leftovers

• Let the soup cool down to room temperature before transferring it to airtight containers.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• If possible, separate the pasta from the soup to maintain its texture.

Freezing

• Cool the soup completely before freezing.
• Use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags.
• Label with the date and freeze for up to 2-3 months for best quality.
• Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Reheating

• Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally.
• Add a splash of water or additional chicken stock if the soup is too thick after freezing.
• Microwave in individual portions for convenience, heating in intervals and stirring in between.

FAQs

Have questions about making this delightful Sicilian Chicken Soup? Here are some common inquiries!

Can I use boneless chicken thighs for Sicilian Chicken Soup?

Yes, boneless chicken thighs can be used! Just keep an eye on cooking times, as they may cook faster than bone-in ones.

What can I substitute for ditalini pasta in Sicilian Chicken Soup?

You can replace ditalini with small pasta shapes like elbow macaroni or orzo. Just adjust cooking times accordingly!

How long does Sicilian Chicken Soup last in the fridge?

Sicilian Chicken Soup will last in the fridge for about 3-4 days if stored properly in airtight containers.

Can I make Sicilian Chicken Soup vegetarian?

Absolutely! Swap out chicken with chickpeas or your favorite plant-based protein and use vegetable broth instead of chicken stock.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in preparing this warm and wholesome Sicilian Chicken Soup! It’s truly a special recipe that brings comfort and flavor to chilly days. Enjoy every spoonful, and don’t hesitate to share your creations with friends and family. Happy cooking!