Sicilian Chicken Soup

If you’re looking for a comforting bowl of goodness, you’ve come to the right place! This Sicilian Chicken Soup is my go-to recipe for chilly evenings or when I need a little pick-me-up. There’s something incredibly heartwarming about a steaming bowl filled with tender chicken, fresh veggies, and delightful ditalini pasta. It’s like getting a warm hug from the inside out!

This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. It’s simple enough to whip up on a whim, yet delicious enough to impress your loved ones. You can serve it as an appetizer or enjoy it as a main course; either way, it brings everyone together around the table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to make: This soup is straightforward and requires minimal prep time, making it perfect for any cook.
• Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike will savor every spoonful of this hearty dish.
• Great for meal prep: Make a big batch ahead of time and enjoy leftovers throughout the week!
• Packed with flavor: Fresh ingredients create a rich and satisfying soup that warms the soul.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients that you probably already have in your kitchen! This Sicilian Chicken Soup is made with fresh vegetables and chicken, making it hearty and nutritious. Here’s what you’ll need:

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 get creative with the ingredients based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences.

• Swap the protein: Use boneless skinless chicken breasts or even turkey if you prefer.
• Add more greens: Toss in some kale or spinach during the last few minutes of cooking for extra nutrition.
• Change up the pasta: If ditalini isn’t your favorite, try small shells or elbow macaroni instead.
• Spice it up: Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños if you like a little heat!

How to Make Sicilian Chicken Soup

Step 1: Prepare the Base

In a large soup pot of at least 6 quarts, combine your chicken thighs with chopped onions, celery, carrots, bell pepper, potatoes, garlic, diced tomatoes, bay leaves, and salt. Adding all these fresh vegetables creates a rich base full of flavor that will make your kitchen smell amazing!

Step 2: Simmer to Perfection

Pour in the chicken stock and water. Season with black pepper to taste. Cover the pot and bring everything to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 30 minutes. This simmering step is crucial because it allows all those flavors to meld together while making your chicken tender enough to fall off the bone.

Step 3: Cook the Pasta

After removing the chicken from the pot using tongs (careful—it’ll be hot!), add in your ditalini pasta. Continue cooking for another 13-15 minutes until the pasta is tender. Remember to stir occasionally so nothing sticks together! This gives your soup its signature heartiness.

Step 4: Shred & Return Chicken

While the pasta cooks away happily in its broth bath, shred your cooked chicken using two forks—discarding any skin and bones. Return that delicious shredded chicken back into the pot. By now your soup should be nearly done; just check if those potatoes are nice and soft!

Step 5: Finish & Serve

Finally, discard those bay leaves before stirring in freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Serve this delightful Sicilian Chicken Soup warm in bowls with a sprinkle of black pepper on top if desired. Enjoy every comforting bite!

Pro Tips for Making Sicilian Chicken Soup

Creating the perfect bowl of Sicilian Chicken Soup is all about the little details. Here are some tips to ensure your soup turns out delicious every time!

• Use fresh vegetables: Fresh veggies not only enhance the flavor but also add a vibrant color and nutrition to your soup, making it a feast for the eyes as well as the palate.

• Customize your pasta: Feel free to swap out ditalini for other small pasta shapes like orzo or elbow macaroni. This flexibility allows you to cater to personal preferences or what you have on hand.

• Let it simmer longer: For deeper flavor, consider simmering your soup a bit longer than the suggested time. The longer cooking allows the flavors to meld beautifully and makes the chicken even more tender.

• Adjust seasoning at the end: Taste your soup after it’s cooked, and adjust seasoning if necessary. Each batch can vary slightly, so this ensures it’s just right before serving.

• Store properly for leftovers: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. This soup tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop!

How to Serve Sicilian Chicken Soup

Serving Sicilian Chicken Soup can be just as enjoyable as making it! Here are some delightful ideas to elevate your dining experience.

Garnishes

• Fresh parsley: A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley adds a pop of color and freshness that brightens up each bowl.
• Lemon zest: A little lemon zest gives a zesty kick that complements the flavors beautifully; just a pinch will do!

Side Dishes

• Crusty bread: A warm loaf of crusty bread is perfect for dipping into your soup, soaking up all those delicious flavors.
• Mixed green salad: A light salad with a simple vinaigrette balances out the hearty nature of the soup and adds crunch.
• Garlic knots: Soft and fluffy garlic knots are always a hit; they’re perfect for mopping up any remaining broth in your bowl.
• Grilled cheese sandwiches: This childhood favorite pairs wonderfully with chicken soup, adding richness and comfort to your meal.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’re well on your way to enjoying an unforgettable bowl of Sicilian Chicken Soup! Happy cooking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Sicilian Chicken Soup is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make a big batch and store it for later, ensuring you have a comforting meal ready to go whenever you need it.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the soup to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer the soup to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing

• Let the soup cool down to room temperature.
• Portion the soup into freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags, leaving some space for expansion.
• Label with the date and freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen soup overnight in the refrigerator or use a microwave on defrost setting.
• Reheat on the stove over medium heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally.
• If reheating from frozen, add a little extra water or stock to thin it out if necessary.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delicious recipe!

What is Sicilian Chicken Soup?

Sicilian Chicken Soup is a hearty and flavorful dish made with tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and ditalini pasta. It’s perfect for warming up on chilly days!

How long does Sicilian Chicken Soup last?

When stored properly in the refrigerator, Sicilian Chicken Soup can last for 3-4 days. If frozen, it can be enjoyed for up to 3 months!

Can I use other types of pasta in Sicilian Chicken Soup?

Absolutely! While ditalini is traditional, feel free to substitute with any small pasta shape you prefer, like elbow macaroni or shells.

Is Sicilian Chicken Soup healthy?

Yes! This soup is packed with protein from chicken and loads of veggies, making it a nutritious option for any meal.

Can I make this soup vegetarian?

Yes! To make a vegetarian version of Sicilian Chicken Soup, simply replace chicken with your favorite plant-based protein and use vegetable stock instead of chicken stock.

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you enjoy making this Sicilian Chicken Soup as much as I do! It’s not just a meal; it’s a warm hug in a bowl that brings comfort and happiness. Whether you’re enjoying it solo or sharing it with loved ones, this soup promises to delight. Happy cooking!