Sicilian Chicken Soup

Chicken soup has never been easier! Sicilian Chicken Soup is the perfect dish for a cozy winter evening or a gathering with family and friends. This delicious soup features tender chunks of chicken, vibrant vegetables, and hearty ditalini pasta, all simmered to perfection in a flavorful broth. It’s a versatile recipe that can be enjoyed as a comforting meal or a delightful starter. The best part? It’s made entirely from scratch!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With a total time of just 55 minutes, you can whip up this heartwarming dish without any fuss.
• Flavorful Ingredients: Each bite is packed with rich flavors from fresh vegetables and aromatic herbs.
• Nutrient-Rich: Loaded with protein and vitamins, this soup makes for a healthy yet satisfying meal.
• Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite herbs or substitute vegetables based on what you have on hand.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a big batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week!

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather your tools to make the cooking process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large soup pot (at least 6-quart)
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Tongs for handling chicken

Importance of Each Tool

• Large soup pot: Essential for cooking all ingredients evenly while allowing enough space for simmering.
• Chef’s knife: A good quality knife ensures precise chopping for vegetables, making prep work quicker and easier.

Ingredients

For the Chicken 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 the Broth

• 1 (32 oz) carton low-sodium chicken stock
• 4 cups water (or chicken stock)

For the Pasta

• 1/2 cup dry ditalini pasta

For Garnish

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

How to Make Sicilian Chicken Soup

Step 1: Combine Ingredients

In a large soup pot (at least 6-quart), combine the following:
* Chicken thighs
* Onions
* Celery
* Carrots
* Bell pepper
* Potatoes
* Garlic
* Diced tomatoes
* Bay leaves
* Kosher salt

Step 2: Add Liquid and Simmer

Add chicken stock and water to the pot. Season with black pepper to taste. Cover the pot and bring it to a boil. Reduce heat to low and let it simmer, partially covered for about 30 minutes or until the chicken is tender and easily falling off the bones. Use tongs to remove the chicken from the pot.

Step 3: Cook Pasta

Add ditalini pasta to the soup. Continue cooking for an additional 13–15 minutes until the pasta is tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Step 4: Shred Chicken

While the pasta cooks, shred the chicken using two forks. Discard skin and bones. Return shredded chicken back into the pot.

Step 5: Final Touches

Discard bay leaves from the soup. Stir in fresh parsley before serving.

Enjoy your homemade Sicilian Chicken Soup—a perfect blend of comfort food that’ll warm you up on chilly days!

How to Serve Sicilian Chicken Soup

Sicilian Chicken Soup is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or enjoying a cozy meal by yourself, here are some serving suggestions to enhance your experience.

With Crusty Bread

• Freshly baked sourdough or baguette pairs perfectly with the soup, allowing you to soak up every drop of flavorful broth.

Topped with Parmesan Cheese

• A sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan adds a rich, nutty flavor that complements the soup’s hearty ingredients beautifully.

Accompanied by a Green Salad

• A light green salad with vinaigrette balances the richness of the soup, providing a refreshing contrast.

With Lemon Wedges

• Squeezing fresh lemon juice over the soup brightens the flavors and adds a zesty touch that elevates each bite.

Served in Bread Bowls

• For an impressive presentation, serve the soup in hollowed-out bread bowls. This makes for an edible vessel that’s fun to eat!

How to Perfect Sicilian Chicken Soup

Creating the perfect Sicilian Chicken Soup involves attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your soup comes out delicious every time.

• Use quality chicken: Opt for fresh, high-quality chicken thighs for maximum flavor and tenderness.
• Chop vegetables uniformly: Making sure all veggies are cut into similar sizes ensures even cooking throughout the soup.
• Adjust seasoning gradually: Taste as you go! Adjust salt and pepper according to your preference for a balanced flavor.
• Don’t skip simmering: Allowing the soup to simmer gently enhances the flavors and tenderizes the chicken.
• Allow leftovers to sit: If you have leftovers, letting them sit overnight in the fridge allows flavors to meld beautifully.

Best Side Dishes for Sicilian Chicken Soup

Complementing your Sicilian Chicken Soup with side dishes can make for a complete meal. Here’s a list of great options:

1. Garlic Bread – Crispy garlic bread adds crunch and flavor, perfect for dipping into your warm soup.
2. Caesar Salad – A classic Caesar salad provides crisp romaine lettuce and creamy dressing for a refreshing side.
3. Roasted Vegetables – Seasonal roasted vegetables add color and nutrition, making your meal more wholesome.
4. Caprese Salad – The combination of fresh tomatoes, basil, and mozzarella cheese creates a vibrant and tasty side dish.
5. Stuffed Peppers – These can be filled with rice or quinoa for added texture and will complement the soup nicely.
6. Cheese Quesadillas – Quick and easy cheese quesadillas provide a cheesy, gooey side that kids love!
7. Polenta Cakes – Creamy polenta cakes offer a comforting addition that pairs well with broth-based soups.
8. Focaccia Bread – Soft focaccia is perfect for mopping up every last bit of delicious broth from your bowl!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Sicilian Chicken Soup can be simple, but there are common mistakes that can affect its flavor and texture. Here are a few to watch out for:

• Ignoring the seasoning: Failing to season your soup properly can lead to bland results. Always taste as you go and adjust salt and pepper accordingly.
• Overcooking the chicken: Cooking the chicken too long can make it dry and tough. Remove it from the pot as soon as it’s tender and shred it for the best texture.
• Neglecting to stir: If you don’t stir the soup while the pasta cooks, it may stick together or clump. Stir occasionally to keep everything evenly cooked.
• Not using fresh ingredients: Using old or wilted vegetables can detract from the soup’s flavor. Choose fresh produce for the best taste and nutritional value.
• Skipping the bay leaves: Bay leaves add a depth of flavor that’s hard to replicate. Don’t skip them; just remember to remove them before serving!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Sicilian Chicken Soup in an airtight container.
• It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing Sicilian Chicken Soup

• Freeze in individual portions using freezer-safe containers or bags.
• The soup can last up to 3 months in the freezer.

Reheating Sicilian Chicken Soup

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat in an oven-safe dish until warmed through, about 20-30 minutes.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover, and heat on high for about 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Reheat on medium heat in a pot until hot, stirring occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Sicilian Chicken Soup that might help you prepare this dish better.

What makes Sicilian Chicken Soup different?

Sicilian Chicken Soup is unique due to its blend of fresh vegetables, tender chicken, and ditalini pasta, creating a hearty yet light meal.

Can I customize my Sicilian Chicken Soup?

Absolutely! You can add your favorite vegetables, such as zucchini or spinach, or even swap out chicken for turkey for a different twist.

How long does it take to make Sicilian Chicken Soup?

The total time is about 55 minutes, with only 10 minutes of prep work. It’s a quick and satisfying meal perfect for any day!

Is this recipe healthy?

Yes! It’s packed with protein from chicken and fiber from vegetables, making it a nutritious option without compromising on flavor.

Final Thoughts

Sicilian Chicken Soup is not only comforting but also versatile enough to accommodate various ingredients based on what you have at home. Feel free to customize it with your favorite veggies or herbs. Enjoy a warm bowl on any chilly day!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Sicilian Chicken Soup

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• Author: Saphira
• Total Time: 55 minutes
• Yield: Serves 6

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Description

Sicilian Chicken Soup is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for warming up on chilly evenings or serving at family gatherings. This hearty soup features tender chicken thighs, a medley of fresh vegetables, and ditalini pasta, all simmered in a flavorful broth that’s rich yet light. With its vibrant colors and aromatic herbs, this dish not only nourishes but also delights the senses. Plus, it’s made from scratch, allowing you to customize the ingredients to your liking. Whether enjoyed as a main course or a starter, Sicilian Chicken Soup is sure to become a favorite in your household.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 4 bone-in-skin-on chicken thighs
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 3 celery ribs, chopped
• 3 medium carrots, chopped
• 1 large yellow bell pepper, chopped
• 2 medium russet potatoes, 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
• 1/2 cup dry ditalini pasta
• 1/2 cup fresh chopped Italian parsley
• Fresh black pepper, to taste

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Instructions

1. In a large soup pot (at least 6-quart), combine chicken thighs, onion, celery, carrots, bell pepper, potatoes, garlic, diced tomatoes, bay leaves, and kosher salt.
2. Add low-sodium chicken stock and water. Season with black pepper to taste. Bring to a boil then reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes until chicken is tender.
3. Remove chicken from pot and shred it using two forks; discard skin and bones.
4. Stir in ditalini pasta and cook for an additional 13–15 minutes or until tender.
5. Return shredded chicken to the pot and stir in fresh parsley before serving.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Simmering
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 570mg
• Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 36g
• Fiber: 5g
• Protein: 22g
• Cholesterol: 70mg