Name: Sicilian Chicken Soup
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 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

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If you’re looking for a cozy meal that warms both your heart and home, look no further than this delightful Sicilian Chicken Soup. This recipe has been a family favorite for years, bringing smiles and comfort on chilly nights. It’s the kind of dish that makes you feel nurtured, like a warm hug in a bowl! Perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, this soup is not only easy to make but also brimming with flavor and nutrition.

Imagine sitting down to a steaming bowl filled with tender chicken, vibrant veggies, and comforting pasta. Each spoonful is a reminder of home-cooked goodness. Whether you’re cooking for one or feeding a crowd, this Sicilian Chicken Soup is sure to please everyone at the table!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can have a delicious meal on the table in under an hour!
Family-Friendly: Packed with wholesome ingredients, this soup will satisfy even the pickiest eaters.
Make-Ahead Convenience: This soup stores beautifully in the fridge or freezer, making it perfect for meal prep.
Bursting with Flavor: The combination of fresh veggies and herbs creates a taste that’s simply irresistible.
Comforting and Nourishing: Perfect for those chilly days when all you want is something warm and filling.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Sicilian Chicken Soup uses simple, wholesome ingredients you can easily find at your local grocery store. Each ingredient adds its own unique flavor and texture to create a heartwarming bowl of goodness.

For the Soup Base:

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

For Cooking:

1 (32 oz) carton low-sodium chicken stock
4 cups water (or chicken stock)
1/2 cup dry ditalini pasta

For Garnish:

1/2 cup fresh chopped Italian parsley
Fresh black pepper, to taste

Variations

This recipe is flexible and can be adjusted to suit your tastes or what you have on hand. Here are some fun variations to try:

Swap the protein: Replace chicken thighs with chicken breasts or even shredded rotisserie chicken for an even quicker option.
Add more greens: Toss in some spinach or kale during the last few minutes of cooking for an extra boost of nutrients.
Change up the pasta: If ditalini isn’t available, any small pasta shape will work perfectly!
Make it spicy: Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños if you’re in the mood for a little heat.

How to Make Sicilian Chicken Soup

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Start by gathering all your ingredients. It’s important to chop your veggies ahead of time so they cook evenly in the soup. Chopping everything before you start cooking makes the process smoother and more enjoyable!

Step 2: Cook the Chicken and Veggies

In a large soup pot (at least 6-quart), combine the chicken thighs with onions, celery, carrots, bell pepper, potatoes, garlic, tomatoes, bay leaves, and salt. Adding these ingredients together allows their flavors to meld beautifully as they cook.

Step 3: Add Stock and Simmer

Pour in the chicken stock and water. Season with black pepper to taste. Cover the pot and bring everything to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer gently for about 30 minutes until the chicken is tender. This slow cooking helps develop rich flavors while ensuring your chicken is juicy.

Step 4: Cook the Pasta

Once your chicken is cooked through, remove it from the pot using tongs. Stir in the ditalini pasta and continue simmering for another 13-15 minutes until it’s tender. Remember to stir occasionally so that the pasta doesn’t stick together – no one likes gummy pasta!

Step 5: Shred Chicken & Final Touches

While your pasta cooks, shred the chicken using two forks; discard any skin or bones. Return the shredded chicken back into your pot along with any juices it released. Taste test your veggies—especially those potatoes—to ensure they’re cooked just right!

Step 6: Serve & Enjoy

Finally, discard those bay leaves! Stir in fresh parsley right before serving for an aromatic finish. Ladle this comforting Sicilian Chicken Soup into bowls and enjoy every warm bite!

This recipe truly captures all that’s wonderful about homemade soup—simple ingredients coming together to create something extraordinary!

Pro Tips for Making Sicilian Chicken Soup

Making a delicious Sicilian Chicken Soup is all about the little details that enhance the flavors and textures. Here are some tips to help you create the perfect bowl of comfort.

Use fresh ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs not only add vibrant flavors but also contribute to the overall healthiness of the soup. Whenever possible, choose organic produce for the best taste.
Don’t rush the simmering process: Allowing the soup to simmer on low heat helps develop a rich, deep flavor. The longer it simmers, the more well-rounded and comforting your soup will be.
Adjust seasoning gradually: Start with less salt and pepper, as you can always add more later. This way, you can control the flavor without overwhelming the natural taste of your ingredients.
Make it ahead of time: This soup tastes even better the next day! Preparing it in advance allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making it a great option for meal prep or entertaining guests.
Experiment with veggies: While this recipe is delicious as is, feel free to add other vegetables like zucchini or green beans. They can offer different textures and nutritional benefits while keeping your soup exciting.

How to Serve Sicilian Chicken Soup

Serving Sicilian Chicken Soup is all about creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. Here are some ideas to elevate your presentation and make your meal even more enjoyable!

Garnishes

Fresh parsley: A sprinkle of freshly chopped Italian parsley adds a pop of color and freshness, complementing the hearty flavors of the soup.
Grated Parmesan cheese: A light dusting of grated dairy-free Parmesan adds a savory depth. Just ensure it’s dairy-free if you have dietary restrictions.

Side Dishes

Crusty bread: A loaf of crusty artisanal bread is perfect for dipping into your soup. It soaks up all those rich flavors beautifully.
Mixed green salad: A simple salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the warm soup.
Roasted vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies like Brussels sprouts or carrots bring extra nutrients and a wonderful caramelized flavor that pairs wonderfully with chicken soup.
Garlic knots: Soft garlic knots brushed with olive oil and herbs can be a delightful addition to your meal, offering an irresistible aroma that complements your comforting bowl of soup.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your Sicilian Chicken Soup will not only warm bellies but also warm hearts around your dining table! Enjoy every spoonful!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Sicilian Chicken Soup is perfect for meal prep and can easily be made ahead of time. It stores well, allowing you to enjoy delicious homemade soup throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

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

Freezing

Cool the soup completely before portioning it into freezer-safe containers.
Leave some space at the top of each container, as the soup will expand when frozen.
Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating

Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating for best results.
Heat on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally.
If reheating from frozen, add a little water or stock to help thin it out as it warms.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about Sicilian Chicken Soup that might help you:

Can I make Sicilian Chicken Soup with boneless chicken?

Yes! You can substitute boneless chicken thighs or breasts. Just reduce cooking time slightly since they will cook faster.

How long does Sicilian Chicken Soup last in the fridge?

This delicious soup can last up to 4 days in the fridge when stored properly in an airtight container.

What can I add to my Sicilian Chicken Soup for extra flavor?

Feel free to add herbs such as thyme or rosemary, or toss in your favorite vegetables like zucchini or spinach!

Is Sicilian Chicken Soup gluten-free?

You can make this soup gluten-free by using gluten-free pasta instead of ditalini.

Final Thoughts

I hope this Sicilian Chicken Soup recipe brings warmth and comfort to your home! It’s a wonderful dish that’s not only satisfying but also filled with wholesome ingredients. Enjoy making it for yourself and your loved ones—there’s nothing like a bowl of homemade soup on a chilly day. Happy cooking!

Sicilian Chicken Soup

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Author: Autumn
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Yield: Serves 6
Category: Main
Method: Cooking
Cuisine: Italian

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Description

Warm up with a comforting bowl of Sicilian Chicken Soup that brings the warmth of home-cooked goodness to your table. This delightful soup is loaded with tender chicken, colorful vegetables, and wholesome pasta, making it a perfect dish for chilly evenings or family gatherings. With just 10 minutes of prep and rich flavors simmering in less than an hour, this easy recipe is designed for both busy weeknights and leisurely weekends. Plus, it’s a nutritious meal that everyone will love!

Ingredients

Scale

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

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Instructions

Prepare all ingredients by chopping veggies.
In a large pot, combine chicken thighs, onion, celery, carrots, bell pepper, potatoes, garlic, diced tomatoes, bay leaves, and salt.
Pour in chicken stock and water; season with black pepper. Bring to boil then reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes until chicken is tender.
Remove chicken to shred; stir in ditalini pasta and cook for another 13-15 minutes until tender.
Return shredded chicken to the pot; stir in fresh parsley before serving.