Sicilian Chicken Soup

Chicken soup has never been easier than with this Sicilian Chicken Soup recipe! Perfect for cozy evenings or a comforting meal, this dish features tender chunks of chicken, hearty vegetables, and delightful ditalini pasta. Not only is it packed with flavor, but it’s also a great way to warm up on a chilly day or serve as a nutritious option for family gatherings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: This recipe requires minimal prep time and uses simple ingredients you may already have in your pantry.
• Flavorful Comfort: Each bowl is filled with rich flavors from the fresh vegetables and aromatic herbs, making it a wholesome comfort food.
• Versatile Meal: Enjoy it as a main dish or pair it with crusty bread for dipping. It’s perfect for any occasion!
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with vitamins and protein, this soup supports a healthy lifestyle while satisfying your taste buds.
• Great for Meal Prep: Make a big batch and store leftovers in the fridge for quick lunches throughout the week.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience seamless, gather these essential tools and equipment. Having the right kitchen tools can help you craft this delicious soup effortlessly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Large soup pot: Ensures you have enough space to cook all the ingredients evenly without overflow.
• Chef’s knife: A sharp knife makes chopping vegetables quick and easy, enhancing your preparation efficiency.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are key to achieving the perfect flavor balance in your soup.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to create this delicious Sicilian Chicken Soup:

For the 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

For Flavoring

• 4 cloves garlic, chopped
• 1 (14.5 oz) can no-salt diced tomatoes
• 2 dry bay leaves
• 1 Tbsp. kosher salt

For Cooking Liquid

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

For Adding Heartiness

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

How to Make Sicilian Chicken Soup

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

In a large soup pot (at least 6-quart), combine the following ingredients:
* Chicken thighs
Chopped onions
Chopped celery
Chopped carrots
Chopped bell pepper
Cubed potatoes
Chopped garlic
Canned diced tomatoes
Bay leaves
* Kosher salt

Step 2: Simmer the Soup

Add the chicken stock and water to the pot. Season with black pepper according to your taste:
1. Cover the pot and bring it to a boil.
2. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low.
3. Simmer partially covered for about 30 minutes or until the chicken becomes tender.

Step 3: Cook the Pasta

After removing the chicken from the pot using tongs:
1. Add ditalini pasta into the simmering soup.
2. Continue cooking for another 13–15 minutes until pasta is tender.
3. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Step 4: Shred Chicken

While pasta cooks:
1. Shred the cooked chicken using two forks. Discard skin and bones.
2. Return shredded chicken back into the pot.

Step 5: Final Touches

Once everything is well mixed:
1. Discard bay leaves from the soup.
2. Stir in fresh parsley before serving.

Now you’re ready to enjoy a warm bowl of homemade Sicilian Chicken Soup, perfect for any occasion!

How to Serve Sicilian Chicken Soup

Sicilian Chicken Soup is a comforting dish that warms the soul, especially during chilly days. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to enhance your soup experience.

With Crusty Bread

• Serve slices of warm, crusty bread alongside the soup for dipping. The bread will soak up the delicious broth, making each bite even more enjoyable.

Topped with Parmesan

• A sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top adds a rich flavor that complements the soup beautifully. It melts into the hot broth, creating a creamy texture.

Garnished with Fresh Herbs

• Enhance the aroma by garnishing your bowl with fresh herbs like basil or thyme. This adds a burst of freshness and elevates the overall presentation.

With a Side Salad

• Pairing the soup with a crisp garden salad balances out the meal. Use light dressings to keep the focus on the hearty soup while adding some crunch.

As Part of a Family Meal

• Serve this soup as an appetizer in a larger family-style meal. It pairs well with roasted meats or pasta dishes, making it perfect for gatherings.

How to Perfect Sicilian Chicken Soup

Making Sicilian Chicken Soup is straightforward, but these tips can help you achieve perfection.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs enhance flavor and nutrition, making your soup more vibrant and tasty.

• Adjust Seasoning Gradually: Always taste as you go. This allows you to adjust salt and pepper levels without overpowering the dish.

• Cook Pasta Separately: For best results, cook ditalini pasta separately and add it just before serving. This prevents it from becoming mushy in the soup.

• Let it Rest: Allow your finished soup to sit for about 15 minutes before serving. This helps flavors meld together for a richer taste.

• Store Correctly: If you have leftovers, store them in airtight containers in the fridge. Reheat gently on the stove to maintain flavor and texture.

Best Side Dishes for Sicilian Chicken Soup

Sicilian Chicken Soup pairs wonderfully with various side dishes. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Garlic Bread: Toasted bread topped with garlic butter makes for a flavorful side that complements the soup perfectly.

2. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables add color and nutrients to your meal while keeping it light and healthy.

3. Cheesy Polenta: Creamy polenta brings a comforting touch that pairs well with the broth’s richness.

4. Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad offers crunchy romaine lettuce and creamy dressing that contrasts nicely with the warm soup.

5. Stuffed Bell Peppers: These can be filled with rice, beans, or vegetables and provide an additional hearty option alongside your bowl of soup.

6. Herb Focaccia: Soft focaccia bread infused with herbs makes a delightful accompaniment for dipping into your Sicilian Chicken Soup.

7. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad mixed with tomatoes, cucumbers, and a lemon vinaigrette adds freshness to your meal.

8. Antipasto Platter: An antipasto platter filled with olives, cheeses, and marinated vegetables provides variety and bursts of flavor alongside your soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Sicilian Chicken Soup, it’s easy to overlook some key details. Here are common mistakes to avoid for the best results.

• Boldly skip the seasoning: Many forget to season their soup properly. Always taste and adjust the salt and pepper as you cook to enhance flavors.
• Boldly ignore chicken quality: Using low-quality chicken can lead to tough meat. Choose fresh or organic chicken for tender and flavorful results.
• Boldly rush the simmering process: Skipping the simmering time means your flavors won’t develop fully. Allow the soup to simmer until the chicken is tender for a richer taste.
• Boldly overcook the pasta: Adding pasta too early can lead to mushiness. Keep an eye on it and add it towards the end of cooking for perfect texture.
• Boldly discard vegetable peels: Some nutrients are in the skins of vegetables like potatoes and carrots. Consider leaving them on for added flavor and nutrition.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in airtight containers.
• Keep in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing Sicilian Chicken Soup

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
• The soup can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Sicilian Chicken Soup

• Boldly use the oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), place the soup in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 30 minutes.
• Boldly microwave: Place a portion in a microwave-safe bowl, cover with a lid, and heat on high for 2-3 minutes or until hot.
• Boldly stovetop: Pour into a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Sicilian Chicken Soup that may help you while preparing this delicious dish.

What makes Sicilian Chicken Soup special?

Sicilian Chicken Soup combines fresh vegetables, tender chicken, and hearty pasta, creating a comforting meal perfect for any occasion.

Can I customize my Sicilian Chicken Soup?

Absolutely! You can add different vegetables like zucchini or spinach, or swap out pasta types based on your preference.

How can I make this dish healthier?

To make it healthier, use low-sodium broth and add more veggies while reducing the amount of pasta used in the recipe.

Can I use leftover chicken for this recipe?

Yes! Leftover cooked chicken works great as a time-saver. Just add it during the last few minutes of cooking to warm it through.

How do I store leftovers of Sicilian Chicken Soup?

Store leftovers in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days or freeze them for longer storage.

Final Thoughts

Sicilian Chicken Soup is not just a comforting winter dish; it’s also versatile enough to adapt with various ingredients based on what you have at home. The combination of fresh veggies and tender chicken creates a nourishing meal that warms your soul. Don’t hesitate to try different variations or additions—your own twist will make this recipe truly yours!

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: Alexia
• Total Time: 1 hour
• Yield: Serves approximately 6

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Description

Sicilian Chicken Soup is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for chilly evenings or family gatherings. This hearty dish features tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and al dente ditalini pasta simmered in a flavorful broth. Easy to prepare with common pantry staples, this soup delivers rich flavors from fresh ingredients and aromatic herbs. Each bowl is not only satisfying but also packed with nutrition, making it a wholesome choice for a cozy meal. Whether enjoyed as a standalone dish or paired with crusty bread, Sicilian Chicken Soup is bound to become a family favorite.

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Ingredients

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• 4 bone-in-skin-on chicken thighs (2 pounds)
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 3 celery ribs, chopped
• 3 medium carrots, chopped
• 1 large yellow bell pepper, chopped
• 2 medium russet potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 4 cloves garlic, chopped
• 1 (14.5 oz) can no-salt diced tomatoes
• 4 cups low-sodium chicken stock (or water)
• 1/2 cup dry ditalini pasta
• Fresh parsley and black pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. In a large soup pot, combine chicken thighs, onions, celery, carrots, bell pepper, potatoes, garlic, diced tomatoes, bay leaves, and salt.
2. Add chicken stock and water; season with black pepper. Bring to a boil.
3. Reduce heat and simmer partially covered for about 30 minutes until the chicken is tender.
4. Remove the chicken; add ditalini pasta to the pot and cook for an additional 13–15 minutes until tender.
5. Shred the cooked chicken and return it to the pot; discard the skin and bones.
6. Stir in fresh parsley before serving.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Simmering
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 280
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 710mg
• Fat: 11g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 24g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 22g
• Cholesterol: 70mg