Sicilian Chicken Soup

Chicken soup has never been easier! Sicilian Chicken Soup is perfect for warming up on a chilly winter day. This delicious recipe features tender chunks of chicken, fresh vegetables, and ditalini pasta, making it a delightful comfort food. Whether you’re hosting a family gathering or enjoying a quiet night in, this soup will surely satisfy your cravings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With straightforward steps and minimal prep time, you can enjoy homemade soup in under an hour.
• Flavorful Ingredients: The combination of fresh vegetables and aromatic spices creates a rich and satisfying broth.
• Versatile Meal: Perfect for lunch or dinner, this soup can be served alone or with crusty bread for dipping.
• Nutritious Option: Packed with protein from chicken and plenty of veggies, this soup is both filling and healthy.
• Freezable Delight: Make a big batch and freeze leftovers for quick meals on busy days.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smoother, gather the essential tools before starting. These tools will help you create the perfect Sicilian Chicken Soup.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Large soup pot: This provides enough space to cook all ingredients without overflow while allowing flavors to meld beautifully.
• Chef’s knife: A sharp knife makes chopping vegetables quick and easy, ensuring even cooking times.
• Tongs: Ideal for safely removing hot chicken from the pot without mess or burns.

Ingredients

For this flavorful Sicilian Chicken Soup, you will need the following ingredients:

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 (about 1 pound)
• 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 additional chicken stock)

For Finishing 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, combine the chicken thighs, onions, celery, carrots, bell pepper, potatoes, garlic, diced tomatoes, bay leaves, and salt.

Step 2: Add Liquids

Add the low-sodium chicken stock and water to the pot. Season with black pepper according to your taste preferences. Cover the pot and bring everything to a boil.

Step 3: Simmer Chicken

Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer partially covered for about 30 minutes or until the chicken is tender and easily falls off the bones. Use tongs to carefully remove the chicken from the pot.

Step 4: Cook Pasta

Stir in the ditalini pasta into the simmering broth. Continue cooking for an additional 13–15 minutes until the pasta is tender. Be sure to stir occasionally so that it doesn’t stick together.

Step 5: Shred Chicken

While the pasta cooks, shred the chicken using two forks. Discard any skin or bones when done. Return the shredded meat back into the pot.

Step 6: Final Touches

Discard the bay leaves from your broth. Stir in fresh parsley just before serving for a burst of flavor!

Enjoy your hearty bowl of Sicilian Chicken Soup!

How to Serve Sicilian Chicken Soup

Sicilian Chicken Soup is a hearty and flavorful dish that warms the soul. Here are some delightful ways to serve this comforting soup, enhancing its appeal and making it a complete meal.

With Fresh Crusty Bread

• Enjoy your Sicilian Chicken Soup with a slice of warm, crusty bread. It’s perfect for dipping and soaking up the savory broth.

Topped with Parmesan Cheese

• Sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top before serving. The cheese adds a rich, nutty flavor that complements the soup beautifully.

Accompanied by a Side Salad

• Pair the soup with a fresh side salad. A light green salad with a tangy vinaigrette balances the richness of the soup.

Garnished with Lemon Zest

• Add a touch of freshness by garnishing your soup with lemon zest. This brightens the flavors and adds a delightful aroma.

Served in Individual Bowls

• For an elegant presentation, serve the soup in individual bowls. This makes it easy for guests to enjoy their own portion while keeping it warm.

How to Perfect Sicilian Chicken Soup

Creating the ultimate Sicilian Chicken Soup involves attention to detail and technique. Here are some tips to ensure your soup is as delicious as possible.

• Use high-quality chicken stock: A flavorful stock enhances the overall taste of your soup, making each spoonful rich and satisfying.
• Don’t rush the simmering: Allowing the soup to simmer gently allows all the flavors to meld together beautifully.
• Adjust seasoning gradually: Taste as you go! Adjusting salt and pepper at different stages helps achieve just the right balance.
• Incorporate seasonal vegetables: Feel free to add other seasonal veggies like zucchini or green beans for extra nutrition and flavor.
• Store leftovers properly: Refrigerate any leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove for best results.
• Add pasta last: Cooking pasta separately can prevent it from becoming mushy. If adding directly, keep an eye on cooking time.

Best Side Dishes for Sicilian Chicken Soup

To complement your Sicilian Chicken Soup, consider these delicious side dishes that pair perfectly with its warm flavors.

1. Garlic Bread
   A classic choice, garlic bread is perfect for soaking up every drop of soup.
2. Caesar Salad
   Crisp romaine topped with creamy dressing brings a refreshing crunch that contrasts nicely with the warm soup.
3. Roasted Vegetables
   Seasonal roasted vegetables add depth and sweetness, balancing out the savory elements of the soup.
4. Caprese Salad
   Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic vinegar create a light and vibrant side dish.
5. Stuffed Peppers
   Bell peppers filled with rice or quinoa provide a hearty option to accompany your soup.
6. Polenta Cakes
   Creamy polenta cakes can be served alongside or crumbled into the soup for added texture.
7. Antipasto Platter
   A selection of marinated olives, artichokes, and roasted red peppers offers variety and enhances flavor profiles.
8. Cornbread Muffins
   Sweet cornbread muffins provide a delightful contrast to savory chicken soup, making each bite enjoyable.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Sicilian Chicken Soup can be easy, but a few common mistakes can affect its flavor and texture. Here are some tips to ensure your soup turns out perfectly.

• Using too much salt: Adding too much salt can overwhelm the dish. Start with less and adjust as needed during cooking.
• Skipping the simmering step: Not allowing the soup to simmer long enough can result in tough chicken. Make sure to let it cook until the chicken is tender.
• Overcooking the pasta: Adding the pasta too early can lead to mushy noodles. Wait until the chicken is nearly done before adding it to the pot.
• Not tasting as you go: Failing to taste during cooking can leave your soup bland. Be sure to sample and adjust seasonings throughout the process.
• Ignoring ingredient sizes: Cutting vegetables unevenly affects their cooking time. Aim for uniform sizes for even cooking.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Allow soup to cool before sealing to prevent condensation.

Freezing Sicilian Chicken Soup

• Freeze in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.
• Leave space at the top of the container for expansion as it freezes.

Reheating Sicilian Chicken Soup

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat in an oven-safe dish until warmed through, about 20-30 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl, covered loosely, for 2-3 minutes on high, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Reheat in a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally until hot, usually around 10 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in Sicilian Chicken Soup?

Sicilian Chicken Soup includes chicken thighs, a variety of vegetables like carrots and celery, tomatoes, and ditalini pasta.

How long does Sicilian Chicken Soup last?

When stored properly in the refrigerator, Sicilian Chicken Soup lasts up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze it for up to 3 months.

Can I customize my Sicilian Chicken Soup?

Yes! You can add other vegetables like zucchini or spinach and substitute different pasta shapes according to your preference.

Is Sicilian Chicken Soup healthy?

Absolutely! This soup is packed with protein from chicken and nutrients from various vegetables, making it a wholesome option.

What can I serve with Sicilian Chicken Soup?

This soup pairs well with crusty bread or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.

Final Thoughts

Sicilian Chicken Soup is a delightful blend of flavors that warms you from within. Its versatility allows for numerous customization options based on what you have on hand. Whether you’re looking for comfort food on a cold day or a nutritious meal any time of year, this recipe is sure to please. Give it a try!

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Sicilian Chicken Soup

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• Author: Amelia
• Total Time: 55 minutes
• Yield: Serves approx. 6 people

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Description

Warm up with this delicious Sicilian Chicken Soup packed with tender chicken and fresh veggies. Perfect for cozy dinners—try it today!

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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 can no-salt diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
• 1 Tbsp kosher salt
• 32 oz low-sodium chicken stock
• 4 cups water
• ½ cup dry ditalini pasta
• Fresh chopped Italian parsley for garnish

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Instructions

1. In a large soup pot, combine chicken thighs, onion, celery, carrots, bell pepper, potatoes, garlic, diced tomatoes, and salt.
2. Add low-sodium chicken stock and water. Season with black pepper to taste. Bring to a boil.
3. Reduce heat and simmer partially covered for about 30 minutes until the chicken is tender.
4. Remove the chicken using tongs and shred it with two forks. Discard skin and bones before returning the meat to the pot.
5. Stir in ditalini pasta and cook for an additional 13–15 minutes until tender.
6. Discard bay leaves and stir in fresh parsley before serving.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Simmering
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 310
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 640mg
• Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 24g
• Cholesterol: 85mg