Chicken soup is a classic comfort food that warms the soul, and this Sicilian Chicken Soup takes it to the next level. Packed with vibrant veggies, tender chicken, and hearty ditalini pasta, it’s perfect for cozy winter nights or gatherings with family and friends. This dish stands out with its rich flavors and simple preparation, making it a go-to recipe any time you crave a bowl of warmth.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Preparation: With straightforward steps, you can whip up this delicious soup in under an hour.
• Flavorful Ingredients: The combination of fresh vegetables and aromatic spices creates a delightful taste in every spoonful.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect as a main course or side dish, this soup suits various occasions—from casual dinners to special gatherings.
• Nutritious Option: Loaded with protein and vegetables, it’s a healthy choice for the whole family.
• Freezes Well: Make a big batch and freeze leftovers for quick meals on busy days.

Tools and Preparation

To create your delicious Sicilian Chicken Soup, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment makes cooking easier and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large soup pot (6-quart or larger)
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Tongs

Importance of Each Tool

• Large soup pot: A spacious pot allows for even cooking and prevents spills while preparing large quantities of soup.
• Cutting board: A sturdy cutting board provides a safe surface for chopping vegetables quickly and efficiently.
• Tongs: These handy tools help you easily handle hot ingredients like chicken without getting burned.

this recipe

Ingredients

Ingredients:
– 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

How to Make Sicilian Chicken Soup

Step 1: Combine Ingredients

In a large soup pot, at least 6-quart, combine the following ingredients:
* Chicken thighs
* Onions
* Celery
* Carrots
* Bell pepper
* Potatoes
* Garlic
* Diced tomatoes
* Bay leaves
* Salt

Step 2: Add Stock and Simmer

Add the chicken stock and water. Season to taste with fresh black pepper. Cover the pot and bring it to a boil. Reduce heat to low and simmer for about 30 minutes or until the chicken is tender and falling off the bones. Once done, remove the chicken from the pot using tongs.

Step 3: Cook Pasta

Add the ditalini pasta to the soup. Continue cooking for an additional 13–15 minutes while partially covered until the pasta is tender. Remember to stir occasionally so that the pasta does not stick to the bottom of the pot.

Step 4: Shred Chicken

While the pasta cooks, shred the cooked chicken using two forks. Discard the skin and bones before returning the shredded chicken back into the pot. Check that all vegetables are cooked through, especially potatoes.

Step 5: Final Touches

Discard bay leaves from your soup. Stir in freshly chopped parsley before serving hot.

Enjoy your hearty bowl of Sicilian Chicken Soup!

How to Serve Sicilian Chicken Soup

Sicilian Chicken Soup is a versatile dish that can be served in various ways to enhance its flavors. Whether you’re enjoying it as a main course or pairing it with sides, these suggestions will elevate your dining experience.

Classic Bowl

• Serve the soup hot in a large bowl, garnished with fresh parsley. This presentation highlights the colorful veggies and tender chicken.

With Crusty Bread

• Pair your soup with a slice of warm crusty bread. It’s perfect for dipping and makes each bite more satisfying.

Over Rice

• Serve the soup over a bed of steamed rice for a hearty twist. This adds a different texture and helps soak up the delicious broth.

Topped with Cheese

• Sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese on top before serving. The nutty flavor complements the soup beautifully.

In a Bread Bowl

• For a fun presentation, serve your Sicilian Chicken Soup in a hollowed-out bread bowl. This makes for an attractive centerpiece at any meal.

How to Perfect Sicilian Chicken Soup

To make the best Sicilian Chicken Soup, follow these simple tips that guarantee rich flavors and the perfect consistency.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs enhance the overall taste of your soup. Choose seasonal produce for maximum flavor.
• Adjust Seasoning: Always taste your soup before serving. You can adjust salt and pepper according to your preference.
• Cook Pasta Separately: To avoid mushy pasta, consider cooking it separately and adding it to each bowl just before serving.
• Let It Rest: Allow the soup to sit for 10-15 minutes after cooking. This resting period helps the flavors meld together better.
• Store Properly: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat gently to maintain its flavor and texture.

Best Side Dishes for Sicilian Chicken Soup

Pairing Sicilian Chicken Soup with side dishes can enhance your meal even further. Here are some excellent options that complement this comforting dish perfectly.

1. Garlic Bread: Crispy on the outside and soft on the inside; garlic bread is perfect for soaking up every drop of soup.
2. Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with vinaigrette adds freshness and balances the richness of the soup.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies provide additional nutrition and flavor while being easy to prepare.
4. Cheesy Polenta: Creamy polenta topped with cheese adds richness and pairs well with the broth.
5. Stuffed Peppers: Flavorful stuffed peppers can add variety to your meal while keeping it hearty.
6. Quinoa Salad: A chilled quinoa salad with herbs gives a refreshing contrast to the warm soup.
7. Focaccia Bread: Soft, herbed focaccia is another great option for dipping into the delicious broth.
8. Caprese Skewers: Skewers of mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil provide a bright, fresh taste to balance your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Sicilian Chicken Soup, it’s easy to overlook some key steps. Avoid these common mistakes for a delicious result.

• Using the wrong chicken cuts – Opt for bone-in chicken thighs for better flavor and tenderness. Boneless cuts won’t provide the same richness.
• Skipping the sautéing step – Sautéing vegetables before adding broth enhances their flavors. Don’t rush this crucial step; allow them to soften and caramelize.
• Not seasoning properly – Taste your soup as it cooks. Seasoning at different stages ensures that all flavors meld beautifully.
• Overcooking the pasta – If you add pasta too early, it can become mushy. Add it near the end of cooking to maintain a perfect texture.
• Ignoring fresh herbs – Fresh parsley adds brightness and freshness. Be sure to stir it in just before serving for maximum flavor.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• 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

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in an oven-safe dish until warmed through.
• Microwave – Heat in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring occasionally, until hot.
• Stovetop – Warm over medium heat in a pot, stirring frequently until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Sicilian Chicken Soup.

Can I use other types of meat?

Yes! You can substitute chicken with turkey or even beef if you prefer a different flavor profile.

How can I customize my Sicilian Chicken Soup?

Feel free to add different vegetables such as zucchini or green beans based on your preference or what you have on hand.

What is the best way to serve Sicilian Chicken Soup?

Serve it warm with crusty bread on the side for a wholesome meal that’s perfect for cold days.

Can I make this soup vegetarian?

Absolutely! Replace chicken with vegetable stock and add more veggies or beans for protein.

How do I store leftover Sicilian Chicken Soup?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator or freeze them for later use.

Final Thoughts

Sicilian Chicken Soup is not only comforting but also versatile. With its rich flavors and customizable ingredients, it’s a dish that everyone will love. Try making it your own by experimenting with different vegetables or herbs!

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Sicilian Chicken Soup

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• Author: Adeline
• Total Time: 1 hour
• Yield: Approximately 8 servings 1x

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Description

Sicilian Chicken Soup is the ultimate comfort food, brimming with nourishing ingredients that warm both body and soul. This savory dish features tender chicken thighs, vibrant vegetables, and hearty ditalini pasta simmered in a flavorful broth. Perfect for cozy winter nights or casual gatherings, this soup is not only easy to prepare but also incredibly versatile. Whether enjoyed as a main course or paired with crusty bread, each spoonful delivers rich flavors and satisfying warmth. Plus, it’s a healthy option that can be made in advance and frozen for busy days. Dive into this delicious recipe for a bowl of Sicilian comfort!

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 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 diced tomatoes
• 1 Tbsp kosher salt
• 32 oz low-sodium chicken stock
• 4 cups water
• 1/2 cup dry ditalini pasta
• Fresh parsley, chopped

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Instructions

1. In a large soup pot (at least 6 quarts), combine chicken thighs, onion, 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 over high heat.
3. Reduce heat to low; cover and simmer for about 30 minutes until chicken is tender. Remove chicken using tongs.
4. Add ditalini pasta to the pot and cook partially covered for an additional 13–15 minutes until pasta is tender.
5. Shred the cooked chicken with two forks; discard skin and bones before returning shredded chicken to the pot.
6. Discard bay leaves; 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: 250
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 420mg
• Fat: 9g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 29g
• Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 18g
• Cholesterol: 70mg

Keywords: For added depth of flavor, sauté the vegetables before adding them to the pot. Customize by incorporating seasonal vegetables like zucchini or green beans. To prevent mushy pasta, consider cooking it separately and adding it just before serving.