Chicken soup has never been easier! Sicilian Chicken Soup is perfect for warming up on a cold winter day. This delightful dish features tender chunks of veggies, hearty ditalini pasta, and shredded chicken, all made from scratch. It’s not just comforting but also versatile enough for various occasions, making it a go-to recipe for family gatherings or cozy nights at home.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Prepare: With straightforward instructions, you can whip up this delicious soup in no time.
- Flavorful Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs create a rich taste that will satisfy your cravings.
- Customizable Options: Feel free to add or substitute your favorite veggies or pasta types to make it your own.
- Hearty and Filling: Packed with protein and nutrients, this soup is perfect for a satisfying meal.
- Great for Meal Prep: Make a big batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week—ideal for busy days!
Tools and Preparation
To make your cooking experience seamless, gather the essential tools before starting. These items will help you achieve the best results while making Sicilian Chicken Soup.
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: A spacious pot allows for even cooking and prevents spills when adding ingredients.
- Chef’s knife: A sharp knife ensures precise chopping, making prep work quick and easy.
- Tongs: Perfect for safely handling hot chicken pieces without mess or splatter.
Ingredients
Sicilian Chicken Soup is filled with wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully. Here’s what you need:
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, 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 Liquid Components
- 1 (32 oz) carton low-sodium chicken stock
- 4 cups water (or chicken stock)
For Final Touches
- 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: Combine Ingredients
In a large soup pot, at least 6-quart, combine the following:
* Chicken thighs
* Onions
* Celery
* Carrots
* Bell pepper
* Potatoes
* Garlic
* Tomatoes
* Bay leaves
* Kosher salt
Step 2: Add Stock and Water
Add the chicken stock and water to the pot. Season with fresh black pepper to taste. Cover the pot and bring it to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, reduce heat to low and simmer partially covered for about 30 minutes until the chicken is tender and easily falls off the bones.
Step 3: Cook Pasta
Remove the chicken from the pot using tongs. Add the ditalini pasta to the soup and continue cooking for an additional 13–15 minutes until the pasta is tender. Remember to stir occasionally so that the pasta doesn’t stick.
Step 4: Shred Chicken
While the pasta cooks, shred the chicken using two forks. Discard the skin and bones as you go through this step. Return the shredded chicken back into the pot.
Step 5: Final Touches
Discard the bay leaves from the pot. Stir in fresh parsley before serving hot in bowls. Enjoy your comforting bowl of Sicilian Chicken Soup!
How to Serve Sicilian Chicken Soup
Sicilian Chicken Soup is a hearty and flavorful dish that can be served in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a dinner or enjoying a cozy meal at home, here are some delightful serving suggestions to elevate your experience.
With Crusty Bread
- A thick, crusty bread pairs perfectly with the soup. Use it to soak up the savory broth for an added texture.
Topped with Fresh Herbs
- Sprinkle fresh parsley or basil on top just before serving. This adds a burst of freshness and enhances the soup’s vibrant flavors.
Served with Grated Cheese
- Offer grated Parmesan cheese on the side for those who enjoy a cheesy finish. It brings a creamy element that complements the soup well.
Accompanied by a Side Salad
- A light salad with mixed greens, tomatoes, and a simple vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the warm soup.
In Individual Bowls
- Serve in individual bowls for a more elegant presentation. This makes it easy for guests to enjoy their own portion.
How to Perfect Sicilian Chicken Soup
Perfecting your Sicilian Chicken Soup can elevate it to new heights of flavor and comfort. Here are some tips to ensure your soup is delicious every time.
Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs will enhance the taste significantly compared to their canned or frozen counterparts.
Adjust Seasoning: Taste as you go! Adjust salt and pepper according to your preference, ensuring each bite is flavorful without being overwhelming.
Cook Low and Slow: Allowing the soup to simmer gently will help meld all the flavors together beautifully and make the chicken tender.
Add Acid: A squeeze of lemon juice just before serving brightens up the flavors and adds a refreshing tang that balances the richness of the broth.
Best Side Dishes for Sicilian Chicken Soup
Pairing side dishes with your Sicilian Chicken Soup can enhance your meal experience. Here are some excellent options that complement this comforting dish nicely.
Garlic Bread
The buttery garlic flavor adds an irresistible touch that goes hand-in-hand with soup.Caprese Salad
This classic Italian salad made with fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil offers a light and refreshing counterbalance to the rich soup.Roasted Vegetables
A mix of seasonal roasted veggies provides added nutrition and flavor while adding texture to your meal.Cheesy Polenta
Creamy polenta topped with cheese makes for an indulgent side that pairs wonderfully with broth-based dishes like this soup.Antipasto Platter
A selection of marinated olives, artichokes, and roasted red peppers offers variety and complements the flavors of Sicilian cuisine well.Simple Green Salad
Tossed greens with olive oil and vinegar keep things light while providing a crisp texture alongside your warm bowl of soup.Stuffed Bell Peppers
These colorful peppers filled with rice or quinoa provide both visual appeal and additional heartiness to your meal.Focaccia Bread
This soft Italian bread is perfect for dipping into your bowl of Sicilian Chicken Soup, enhancing every spoonful you take!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Sicilian Chicken Soup can be simple, but there are common errors to watch out for.
Overcooking the Chicken – A common mistake is cooking the chicken too long. This can lead to dry meat. To avoid this, monitor the cooking time and remove the chicken once it’s tender and easily falls off the bone.
Skipping Fresh Herbs – Some may forget to add fresh herbs like parsley, which enhance flavor. Always include them at the end of cooking for a vibrant taste.
Neglecting to Stir – Failing to stir the soup can cause the pasta to stick together. Remember to stir occasionally during cooking for even texture.
Using Too Much Salt – Adding excess salt can overpower the dish. Start with less salt and adjust according to your taste as it simmers.
Ignoring Vegetable Sizes – Cutting vegetables unevenly can result in inconsistent cooking. Chop all veggies into similar sizes for uniform tenderness.
Forgetting Bay Leaves – Omitting bay leaves removes depth of flavor. Don’t skip this step; they add a subtle aromatic touch that enhances the soup.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- Allow soup to cool before sealing and refrigerating.
Freezing Sicilian Chicken Soup
- Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
- Can be frozen for up to 3 months.
- Leave space at the top of containers as soup expands when frozen.
Reheating Sicilian Chicken Soup
Oven – Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer soup to an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat until warm.
Microwave – Place soup in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in 1-minute intervals until heated through, stirring between intervals.
Stovetop – Pour soup into a pot over medium heat. Stir occasionally and heat until hot throughout.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about Sicilian Chicken Soup that might help you while preparing this delicious dish.
What is Sicilian Chicken Soup?
Sicilian Chicken Soup is a hearty dish featuring tender chicken, vegetables, and pasta simmered together in a flavorful broth. It’s a comforting meal perfect for any day.
Can I use other types of pasta?
Yes! While ditalini is traditional, you can substitute with any small pasta shapes like elbow macaroni or shells for variety in texture.
How do I customize my Sicilian Chicken Soup?
Feel free to add your favorite vegetables like zucchini or spinach. You can also adjust spices or herbs based on your preference for added flavor.
Is Sicilian Chicken Soup healthy?
Absolutely! Packed with protein from chicken and nutrients from various vegetables, this soup makes a wholesome meal option that’s both filling and nutritious.
How do I make this recipe vegetarian?
To create a vegetarian version of Sicilian Chicken Soup, simply replace chicken with chickpeas or tofu and use vegetable broth instead of chicken stock.
Final Thoughts
Sicilian Chicken Soup is a warm and inviting dish that offers versatility in flavors and ingredients. It’s perfect for family dinners or meal prep throughout the week. Experiment with different veggies or spices to make it your own!
Sicilian Chicken Soup
Sicilian Chicken Soup is the ultimate comfort dish that warms both the heart and soul. This homemade soup features tender chicken, a medley of fresh vegetables, and hearty ditalini pasta simmered in a flavorful broth. Perfect for cozy winter nights or family gatherings, it’s not only easy to prepare but also highly customizable. Add your favorite veggies or adjust the seasonings to suit your taste. With its rich flavors and nutritious ingredients, this soup is sure to become a staple in your kitchen!
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: Serves 6
Ingredients
- 2 pounds bone-in skin-on chicken thighs
- 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, 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
Instructions
- In a large soup pot, combine chicken thighs, onion, celery, carrots, bell pepper, potatoes, garlic, tomatoes, bay leaves, and salt.
- Pour in chicken stock and water; season with black pepper. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce to low and simmer for 30 minutes until chicken is tender.
- Remove chicken from pot using tongs. Add ditalini pasta; cook for another 13–15 minutes until tender.
- Shred the chicken using forks. Discard skin and bones; return shredded chicken to pot.
- Remove bay leaves and stir in fresh parsley before serving hot.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 24g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
Keywords: Customize with seasonal vegetables like zucchini or spinach for added nutrition. Serve with crusty bread or a light salad for a complete meal.