Sicilian Chicken Soup

If you’re looking for a cozy dish to warm your heart and home, you’ve found it! This Sicilian Chicken Soup is a cherished recipe that brings together tender chicken, vibrant veggies, and hearty ditalini pasta in one delicious bowl. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, filling the house with wonderful aromas and everyone’s bellies with comfort. You’ll find that this soup is not just nourishing but also incredibly satisfying.

Every spoonful of this Sicilian Chicken Soup is like a hug in a bowl. Whether you’re feeling under the weather or just need a little pick-me-up, this recipe is here for you. Let’s dive into why this soup will become a favorite in your kitchen!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple to make: This recipe takes just 55 minutes from start to finish, making it easy to whip up even on a hectic day.
• Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the tender chunks of chicken and colorful veggies. It’s a hit with everyone!
• Make ahead: This soup keeps well in the fridge for a few days and tastes even better the next day, perfect for meal prep.
• Flavorful and hearty: Packed with rich flavors from fresh ingredients, every bowl will leave you wanting more.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering simple, wholesome ingredients is part of the fun! With each item adding its own special touch, you’ll appreciate how easy it is to put this dish together.

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 adapt it based on what you have on hand or your personal tastes.

• Swap the protein: Use boneless skinless chicken breast or even turkey for a lighter option.
• Add greens: Throw in some spinach or kale during the last few minutes of cooking for an extra nutrient boost.
• Change the pasta: If ditalini isn’t your favorite, try small shells or elbow macaroni instead!
• Spice it up: Add red pepper flakes or hot sauce for those who love an extra kick in their soup.

How to Make Sicilian Chicken Soup

Step 1: Combine Ingredients

In a large soup pot—at least 6-quarts—combine your chicken with onions, celery, carrots, bell pepper, potatoes, garlic, tomatoes, bay leaves, and salt. This step lays the groundwork for a flavorful base by allowing all these ingredients to meld together beautifully as they cook.

Step 2: Simmer the Broth

Next, pour in the chicken stock and water. Season with fresh black pepper to taste. Cover your 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 falling off the bone. This slow cooking brings out all those delicious flavors!

Step 3: Cook the Pasta

Once your chicken is ready to shred, add the ditalini pasta directly into the soup. Continue cooking for another 13-15 minutes while stirring occasionally; this prevents sticking and ensures even cooking. The pasta will soak up all that tasty broth!

Step 4: Shred & Return Chicken

With two forks at hand, carefully shred your cooked chicken while discarding skin and bones. Return all that shredded goodness back into the pot! As you do this step, take a moment to taste those lovely veggies—especially checking if your potatoes are fork-tender.

Step 5: Finish & Serve

Don’t forget to discard those bay leaves before serving! Stir in fresh parsley for a pop of color and flavor right before you ladle out generous portions of your comforting Sicilian Chicken Soup. Enjoy every warm bite!

Pro Tips for Making Sicilian Chicken Soup

Creating the perfect Sicilian Chicken Soup is all about enhancing flavors and ensuring a comforting bowl every time. Here are some tips to elevate your soup-making game!

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh vegetables improve the flavor and texture of the soup. Opting for in-season produce can make a significant difference in taste.

• Don’t rush the simmering: Allowing the soup to simmer on low heat helps meld the flavors together beautifully. This patience enhances the richness of the broth and tenderness of the chicken.

• Taste as you go: Adjusting seasoning throughout the cooking process ensures that your soup is perfectly balanced. Remember, you can always add more salt or pepper, but you can’t take it out once added.

• Add herbs at the end: Stirring in fresh parsley right before serving maintains its vibrant color and flavor. This little touch adds brightness to your hearty soup.

• Store leftovers properly: Let any leftover soup cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to four days or frozen for longer-lasting enjoyment.

How to Serve Sicilian Chicken Soup

Serving your Sicilian Chicken Soup is just as important as making it, as presentation can enhance the overall experience! Here are some delightful ways to serve this comforting dish.

Garnishes

• Fresh Parmesan cheese: Grated freshly over each bowl before serving adds a deliciously rich flavor.
• Lemon wedges: A squeeze of lemon juice brightens up the flavors and adds a refreshing twist.
• Crusty bread: Place a slice of warm crusty bread on the side; it’s perfect for dipping into that flavorful broth!

Side Dishes

• Simple Green Salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cucumbers, and a zesty vinaigrette complements the heartiness of the soup beautifully.
• Garlic Bread: This classic side pairs wonderfully with any soup. The buttery garlic flavor makes for an irresistible combination when dipped into your Sicilian Chicken Soup.
• Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies bring out natural sweetness and provide a colorful addition to your meal.
• Risotto: A creamy risotto offers a luxurious side dish that balances well with the lightness of the soup while adding a satisfying texture.

Now you’re ready to enjoy your delicious Sicilian Chicken Soup! Gather around with family or friends, share warm memories, and savor each comforting spoonful. Happy cooking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Sicilian Chicken Soup is an excellent choice for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy hearty, homemade comfort food throughout the week. With its rich flavors and nourishing ingredients, it stores beautifully and gets even tastier over time!

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring to airtight containers.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Keep in mind that the pasta may absorb some liquid, so you might want to add a splash of water or stock when reheating.

Freezing

• Portion the cooled soup into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Leave some space at the top of each container for expansion as it freezes.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for optimal freshness.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen soup overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Heat on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through.
• If using a microwave, reheat in short intervals, stirring between each until hot.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making Sicilian Chicken Soup.

Can I use boneless chicken instead of bone-in thighs for Sicilian Chicken Soup?

Absolutely! Boneless chicken can be used, but keep in mind that bone-in thighs add more flavor and richness to the broth. If you choose boneless, reduce cooking time slightly until cooked through.

How can I make my Sicilian Chicken Soup more flavorful?

To enhance flavor, consider adding herbs like thyme or oregano during cooking. You can also squeeze fresh lemon juice right before serving for a bright finish.

What should I serve with Sicilian Chicken Soup?

This soup is delicious on its own but pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a light salad for a complete meal.

Can I substitute vegetables in Sicilian Chicken Soup?

Yes! Feel free to swap in your favorite veggies like zucchini or green beans. Just keep an eye on cooking times to ensure everything is tender.

Final Thoughts

I hope this Sicilian Chicken Soup warms your heart and home just as it does mine! It’s perfect for cozy nights or when you need a little comfort food pick-me-up. Enjoy making this delightful recipe and feel free to share your experience with me. Happy cooking!