Sicilian Chicken Soup

If you’re looking for a cozy meal that wraps you in warmth, this Sicilian Chicken Soup is just what you need! It’s the kind of comfort food that feels like a hug in a bowl. The tender chicken, hearty vegetables, and little ditalini pasta come together to create a dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. Trust me, once you’ve tasted this soup, it will quickly become a favorite in your home.

What makes this recipe special is how easy it is to prepare. You can whip it up from scratch with simple ingredients, and it fills the whole house with mouthwatering aromas. Plus, it’s packed with nutrients and flavor—what’s not to love?

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to make: With just 10 minutes of prep time and 45 minutes of cooking, you’ll have a delicious soup ready in under an hour!
• Family-friendly: This dish appeals to both kids and adults alike; everyone will be asking for seconds.
• Nourishing: Loaded with veggies and lean protein, this soup is comforting without being heavy.
• Make-ahead friendly: Prepare it ahead of time and store leftovers for an easy lunch or dinner throughout the week.
• Versatile: You can easily customize the ingredients based on what you have at home or your personal tastes.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the right ingredients for this Sicilian Chicken Soup is a breeze! These are simple, wholesome items that not only make cooking enjoyable but also create a rich and hearty flavor.

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 Sicilian Chicken Soup is its flexibility! You can easily adapt it to suit your preferences or use up what you have on hand.

• Add more greens: Toss in some spinach or kale for an extra boost of color and nutrition.
• Change the pasta: If you don’t have ditalini on hand, try any small pasta shape like elbow macaroni or shells.
• Use different veggies: Feel free to add zucchini or green beans for additional texture.
• Make it spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes if you love a little heat!

How to Make Sicilian Chicken Soup

Step 1: Combine Ingredients

In a large soup pot—make sure it’s at least 6-quarts—combine the chicken thighs with onions, celery, carrots, bell pepper, potatoes, garlic, tomatoes, bay leaves, and salt. This step creates the base of your soup where all those lovely flavors will meld together beautifully.

Step 2: Simmer the Chicken

Next, pour in the chicken stock and water. Season with fresh black pepper to taste. Cover the pot and bring everything to a boil. Reducing the heat allows it to simmer gently for about 30 minutes until the chicken becomes tender and falls off the bone effortlessly. Afterward, remove the chicken using tongs so you can shred it later.

Step 3: Cook the Pasta

Now it’s time to add your ditalini pasta! Stir it into the soup and continue cooking for about 13-15 minutes while partially covering it. Remember to stir occasionally so that the pasta doesn’t stick together. This step transforms your soup into a hearty meal!

Step 4: Shred and Reintroduce Chicken

While your pasta cooks, grab two forks and shred that tender chicken meat after removing skin and bones. Once shredded, return it back into your soup pot. At this point, taste those delicious veggies—especially those potatoes—to check if they are cooked through.

Step 5: Final Touches

Finally, discard those bay leaves from your pot. Stir in the fresh parsley for a burst of flavor before serving up bowls of this warming Sicilian Chicken Soup! Enjoy every last drop as you share this delightful dish with loved ones!

Pro Tips for Making Sicilian Chicken Soup

Making Sicilian Chicken Soup is a delightful experience, and with these pro tips, you can take your soup to the next level!

• Use Fresh Vegetables: Fresh produce not only enhances the flavor but also adds nutrients to your soup. Opt for seasonal veggies when possible for the best taste.

• Season Gradually: Start with less salt and pepper, then adjust as it cooks. This helps to avoid over-seasoning and allows flavors to develop naturally.

• Shred Chicken While Hot: Shredding the chicken while it’s still warm makes it easier to pull apart. It also allows the chicken to absorb more of the flavorful broth when returned to the pot.

• Don’t Skip the Bay Leaves: These might seem like a small detail, but bay leaves add depth and richness to your broth. Remember to remove them before serving!

• Adjust Pasta Cooking Time: If you prefer al dente pasta, check it a couple of minutes before the suggested cooking time. This ensures it doesn’t become mushy as it sits in the soup.

How to Serve Sicilian Chicken Soup

Serving up your Sicilian Chicken Soup can be just as fun as making it! Here are some ideas that will not only make your dish look appealing but also enhance its deliciousness.

Garnishes

• Fresh Italian Parsley: A sprinkle of chopped parsley adds a bright color and fresh flavor that complements the hearty soup.
• Lemon Zest: A touch of lemon zest right before serving can brighten up the flavors, giving a refreshing twist to each bowl.

Side Dishes

• Crusty Bread: A slice of warm, crusty bread is perfect for dipping into your soup. It adds texture and keeps you feeling cozy.
• Simple Green Salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a vinaigrette balances out the richness of the soup and adds a refreshing crunch.
• Garlic Breadsticks: Soft garlic breadsticks are not only delicious on their own but also great for soaking up every drop of flavorful broth.
• Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned roasted veggies bring additional flavor and are an excellent way to incorporate more nutrition into your meal.

Enjoy crafting this comforting bowl of Sicilian Chicken Soup, whether it’s for a cozy dinner or a gathering with friends!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Sicilian Chicken Soup is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make a big batch and enjoy it throughout the week, making your busy days a bit easier.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Keep any unused ditalini pasta separate if you want to maintain its texture.

Freezing

• Let the soup cool entirely before pouring it into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Leave some space at the top of the container, as liquids expand when frozen.
• Freeze for up to 3 months. Be sure to label with the date!

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen, or use a microwave for quicker defrosting.
• Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through, adding a splash of water or stock if necessary.
• Stir occasionally to ensure even heating.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this comforting dish!

What is Sicilian Chicken Soup?

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

Can I use different vegetables in Sicilian Chicken Soup?

Absolutely! Feel free to customize this recipe by adding your favorite vegetables like zucchini or green beans for extra nutrition and flavor.

How long does Sicilian Chicken Soup last in the fridge?

When stored properly in an airtight container, Sicilian Chicken Soup can last up to 4 days in the refrigerator. Enjoy it fresh throughout the week!

Can I make Sicilian Chicken Soup vegetarian?

Yes! Substitute chicken with chickpeas or white beans and use vegetable broth instead of chicken stock for a delicious vegetarian version.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this delightful Sicilian Chicken Soup as much as I do! It’s not just a recipe; it’s a warm hug in a bowl. Whether you’re sharing it with loved ones or enjoying it solo, this soup brings comfort and joy to every spoonful. Happy cooking, and don’t forget to share your creations with me!