Name: Sicilian Chicken Soup
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 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 can no-salt diced tomatoes (14.5 oz); 32 oz low-sodium chicken stock; 4 cups water; ½ cup dry ditalini pasta; ½ cup fresh chopped Italian parsley; Fresh black pepper, to taste

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If you’re looking for a bowl of comfort that warms the soul, look no further than this Sicilian Chicken Soup. It’s not just any soup; it’s a hug in a bowl! This recipe has been passed down through generations and brings back cherished memories of cozy family gatherings. With tender chunks of chicken, vibrant veggies, and delightful ditalini pasta, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or those chilly winter days when all you want is something heartwarming.

What makes this Sicilian Chicken Soup truly special is its simplicity and the wholesome ingredients that come together effortlessly. You can whip it up in under an hour, making it an ideal choice for when you need something satisfying without a lot of fuss.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: In just 55 minutes, you can have a delicious homemade soup ready to serve.
Family Favorite: Kids and adults alike will love the hearty flavors and comforting textures.
Make-Ahead Friendly: This soup tastes even better the next day, so you can meal prep for busy evenings!
Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with veggies and lean protein, it’s a wholesome dish everyone can enjoy.
Customizable: Feel free to tweak it based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences!

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make this delightful Sicilian Chicken Soup, you’ll need some simple, wholesome ingredients that are easy to find. Gather these fresh items and get ready for a cooking adventure!

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 recipe is how flexible it is! Feel free to make adjustments based on your taste preferences or what you have available in your pantry.

Swap the protein: Instead of chicken thighs, try using skinless chicken breasts for a lighter option.
Add more greens: Toss 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, any small pasta shape will work beautifully!
Spice it up: Add red pepper flakes or a splash of lemon juice for a little kick that brightens up the flavors.

How to Make Sicilian Chicken Soup

Step 1: Combine Your Ingredients

In a large soup pot (aim for at least 6-quarts), combine the chicken thighs with chopped onions, celery, carrots, bell pepper, potatoes, garlic, diced tomatoes, bay leaves, and kosher salt. This step is crucial because layering all these ingredients together allows their flavors to meld beautifully as they cook.

Step 2: Simmer to Perfection

Pour in the low-sodium chicken stock and water. Season with black pepper to your liking. Cover and bring everything to a boil before reducing the heat to low. Let it simmer partially covered for about 30 minutes until the chicken becomes tender and falls off the bone easily. This slow simmering process lets all those delicious flavors infuse throughout the broth.

Step 3: Cook the Pasta

Once your chicken is tender, carefully remove it from the pot using tongs. Now it’s time to stir in your ditalini pasta! Continue cooking for an additional 13-15 minutes while stirring occasionally—this prevents the pasta from sticking together. The goal here is perfectly cooked pasta that complements our rich soup!

Step 4: Shred the Chicken

While your pasta cooks away happily in that flavorful broth, shred the cooked chicken using two forks. Discard any skin and bones—it’s all about getting that juicy meat back into our wonderful soup! Return shredded chicken back to the pot after shredding so it can soak up even more flavor.

Step 5: Final Touches

Before serving up your warm bowls of happiness, don’t forget to discard those bay leaves! Stir in fresh parsley for brightness just before serving. Enjoy every spoonful knowing you’ve created something nourishing and comforting!

Pro Tips for Making Sicilian Chicken Soup

Making this soup is a breeze, and a few helpful tips can elevate it to the next level!

Use fresh ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs not only enhance the flavor but also add vibrant color and nutrition to your soup.
Don’t rush the simmering process: Allowing the soup to simmer for a longer time helps develop a deeper flavor profile, making each spoonful rich and comforting.
Adjust seasoning gradually: Start with less salt and black pepper and adjust to taste as you go along. This way, you can ensure that the flavors are balanced without overpowering the dish.
Experiment with different veggies: Feel free to add seasonal vegetables like zucchini or green beans. This adds variety and makes use of whatever you have on hand!
Store leftovers properly: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. This soup actually tastes better the next day as the flavors meld together!

How to Serve Sicilian Chicken Soup

Presenting your Sicilian Chicken Soup beautifully will make it even more enjoyable for everyone at your table!

Garnishes

Chopped fresh parsley: Adds a splash of color and a burst of freshness that complements the savory flavors of the soup.
Grated Parmesan cheese: While this isn’t animal-derived gelatin, it provides a wonderful umami kick that pairs perfectly with chicken soup.

Side Dishes

Crusty bread: A warm, crusty loaf is perfect for dipping into the rich broth. It adds texture and is always a crowd-pleaser.
Mixed green salad: A light salad with a simple vinaigrette can balance out the hearty nature of the soup, offering a refreshing contrast.
Garlic knots: Soft, buttery garlic knots are an excellent accompaniment. Their delightful chewiness and garlicky aroma will have everyone coming back for more!
Roasted vegetables: Serve alongside some roasted seasonal veggies for added nutrients and to complement the warm flavors of your soup.

Feel free to mix and match these garnishes and side dishes to create your perfect meal! Enjoy every comforting spoonful of this delightful Sicilian Chicken Soup.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Sicilian Chicken Soup is perfect for meal prep! You can whip up a big batch and enjoy it throughout the week. Here’s how to store it properly to keep it tasting fresh.

Storing Leftovers

Allow the soup to cool completely before storing.
Transfer to airtight containers, ensuring they are filled to the top with minimal air space.
Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing

Portion the soup into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some space for expansion.
Label with the date and freeze for up to 3 months.
For best results, avoid freezing with pasta; add freshly cooked pasta when reheating.

Reheating

Thaw frozen soup overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Heat in a pot over medium heat on the stove until warmed through, adding a splash of water or stock if needed.
If using a microwave, cover and heat in short intervals, stirring occasionally.

FAQs

You might have some questions about this delicious recipe. Here are some common queries!

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs for Sicilian Chicken Soup?

Yes, you can substitute chicken breasts for thighs. Just keep in mind that they may cook faster, so adjust your cooking time accordingly.

What makes Sicilian Chicken Soup unique?

Sicilian Chicken Soup is unique due to its vibrant mix of fresh vegetables and herbs, combined with tender chicken and ditalini pasta. It’s a comforting dish that brings a taste of Italy right into your home!

How long does Sicilian Chicken Soup last in the fridge?

Your Sicilian Chicken Soup can last in the refrigerator for 3-4 days if stored correctly in airtight containers.

Can I customize ingredients in my Sicilian Chicken Soup?

Absolutely! Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or adjust seasonings according to your preferences. This recipe is quite versatile!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find this Sicilian Chicken Soup as comforting as I do! It’s a heartwarming dish that not only warms you from the inside out but also fills your kitchen with delightful aromas. Enjoy making this recipe, and don’t hesitate to share it with friends and family who might need a cozy bowl of soup themselves. Happy cooking!