Sicilian Chicken Soup

Chicken soup has never been easier! Sicilian Chicken Soup is the perfect dish to warm you up on a chilly day. This comforting recipe is packed with tender chunks of veggies, ditalini pasta, and shredded chicken. Ideal for family dinners or cozy nights in, this soup brings the flavors of Italy right to your kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can have a delicious soup simmering on the stove.
• Deliciously Flavorful: The combination of fresh vegetables and savory chicken stock creates a rich and hearty flavor profile that’s hard to beat.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can easily substitute ingredients based on what you have on hand, making it flexible for any season or occasion.
• Nutritious Meal: Packed with protein and fiber, this soup not only satisfies but also nourishes your body.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love this comforting bowl of goodness, making it a great choice for family meals.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking your Sicilian Chicken Soup, gather all necessary tools to ensure a smooth cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large soup pot (at least 6-quart)
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Tongs

Importance of Each Tool

• Large soup pot: A spacious pot allows for even cooking and plenty of room for all the ingredients.
• Cutting board: A sturdy cutting board provides a safe surface for chopping vegetables efficiently.
• Tongs: These are perfect for safely removing chicken from the pot without burning yourself.

Ingredients

Chicken soup has never been easier! Warm up with a huge bowl on a cold winter day. All from scratch with tender chunks of veggies, ditalini pasta, and shredded chicken. Yum!

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 (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

For Seasoning

• 1 Tbsp. kosher salt
• Fresh black pepper, to taste

For the Broth

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

For Adding Texture

• 1/2 cup dry ditalini pasta

For Garnish

• 1/2 cup fresh chopped Italian parsley

How to Make Sicilian Chicken Soup

Step 1: Combine Ingredients

In a large soup pot, combine the following:
1. chicken thighs
2. onions
3. celery
4. carrots
5. bell pepper
6. potatoes
7. garlic
8. diced tomatoes
9. bay leaves

Step 2: Add Stock and Simmer

Add the following to the pot:
1. Pour in the chicken stock and add water.
2. Season with freshly ground black pepper to taste.
3. Cover the pot and bring everything to a boil.
4. Reduce heat to low and simmer partially covered for about 30 minutes or until the chicken is tender.

Step 3: Cook Pasta

Once the chicken is ready:
1. Remove it from the pot using tongs.
2. Add in the dried ditalini pasta.
3. Continue cooking partially covered for 13-15 minutes until pasta is tender.

Step 4: Shred Chicken

While the pasta cooks:
1. Shred the chicken with two forks, discarding skin and bones.
2. Return shredded chicken back into the pot.
3. Taste test your veggies, especially checking potatoes for doneness.

Step 5: Final Touches

After ensuring everything is well-cooked:
1. Discard bay leaves from the soup.
2. Stir in fresh chopped parsley.
3. Serve hot and enjoy your delicious Sicilian Chicken Soup!

This recipe yields about eight servings—perfect for sharing or meal prepping for the week ahead!

How to Serve Sicilian Chicken Soup

Sicilian Chicken Soup is a comforting dish that can be enhanced with various serving suggestions. Whether you’re having it as a hearty main course or a light starter, these ideas will elevate your dining experience.

With Fresh Bread

• Crusty Baguette: A warm, crusty baguette is perfect for dipping into the flavorful broth.
• Garlic Bread: Spread with butter and garlic, this side adds a deliciously aromatic touch.

Topped with Parmesan

• Grated Parmesan Cheese: A sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan adds creaminess and depth to the soup’s flavor.
• Parmesan Crisps: For a crunchy texture, serve homemade or store-bought Parmesan crisps on the side.

Accompanied by Salad

• Mixed Greens Salad: A light salad with vinaigrette balances the richness of the soup.
• Caesar Salad: The creamy dressing and croutons complement the soup’s flavors beautifully.

With Additional Herbs

• Fresh Basil Leaves: Adding fresh basil enhances the Italian essence of the soup.
• Chopped Green Onions: Sprinkle some green onions for a mild onion flavor and fresh crunch.

How to Perfect Sicilian Chicken Soup

Achieving the ideal Sicilian Chicken Soup takes just a few extra steps. Here are some simple tips to elevate your dish.

• Use Quality Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and high-quality chicken stock make all the difference in flavor.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste your soup as it cooks and adjust salt and pepper to your preference for optimal flavor.
• Cook Pasta Separately: To avoid mushy pasta, cook it separately and add it to individual bowls before serving.
• Let It Sit: Allowing the soup to sit for a few minutes after cooking helps meld the flavors together beautifully.

Best Side Dishes for Sicilian Chicken Soup

Pairing side dishes with your Sicilian Chicken Soup can enhance your meal. Here are some excellent options:

1. Garlic Knots: Soft bread knots brushed with garlic butter are perfect for soaking up every drop of soup.
2. Antipasto Platter: A selection of cured meats, cheeses, olives, and marinated vegetables creates a great appetizer spread.
3. Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic reduction complement the soup’s flavors well.
4. Stuffed Peppers: Bell peppers filled with rice and meat offer a satisfying side that pairs nicely with the soup.
5. Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned roasted veggies provide an earthy contrast to the rich soup.
6. Polenta Cakes: Creamy polenta cakes add a comforting element that goes well with Sicilian Chicken Soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Sicilian Chicken Soup can be straightforward, but there are common pitfalls to avoid for the best results.

• Using low-quality chicken: Always opt for fresh, high-quality chicken thighs. This brings out the best flavor in your soup.
• Skipping the sauté step: Don’t skip sautéing vegetables before adding liquids. It enhances their flavors and adds depth to your soup.
• Not seasoning adequately: Be generous with salt and pepper throughout the cooking process. Taste as you go to achieve a well-seasoned dish.
• Overcooking the pasta: Pasta can become mushy if overcooked. Add it towards the end of cooking and check for doneness frequently.
• Neglecting to remove bay leaves: Remember to take out the bay leaves before serving. They are not edible and can spoil the taste if ingested.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Duration: Store leftover Sicilian Chicken Soup in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Containers: Use airtight containers to keep your soup fresh and prevent spills.

Freezing Sicilian Chicken Soup

• Duration: You can freeze this soup for up to 3 months.
• Containers: Use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags, leaving some space at the top for expansion.

Reheating Sicilian Chicken Soup

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the soup in an oven-safe dish covered with foil until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl, covering it loosely. Stir occasionally until hot throughout.
• Stovetop: Pour into a pot over medium heat. Stir frequently until warmed up, adding a splash of water if needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

This section addresses common queries about Sicilian Chicken Soup.

What makes Sicilian Chicken Soup different from regular chicken soup?

Sicilian Chicken Soup includes unique ingredients like bell peppers and ditalini pasta, offering a distinct flavor profile influenced by Italian cuisine.

Can I use boneless chicken thighs instead of bone-in?

Yes, you can use boneless chicken thighs, though bone-in provides more flavor during cooking.

How can I customize my Sicilian Chicken Soup?

Feel free to add any vegetables you enjoy or substitute different types of pasta. You can also use herbs like thyme or basil for added flavor.

Is Sicilian Chicken Soup healthy?

Absolutely! This soup is packed with protein, veggies, and nutrients while being lower in calories compared to many other comfort foods.

Final Thoughts

Sicilian Chicken Soup is a delightful comfort food that warms both body and soul. Its versatility allows you to customize it based on your preferences. Try making this recipe today for a satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion!