Sicilian Chicken Soup

Chicken soup has never been easier! Sicilian Chicken Soup is the perfect dish to warm up your evenings, especially on cold winter days. This delightful soup features tender chunks of veggies, ditalini pasta, and juicy shredded chicken, making it an ideal comfort food for various occasions. Its rich flavors and hearty ingredients will surely stand out at any dinner table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy Preparation: This recipe comes together in under an hour, making it suitable for busy weeknights.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with vegetables and lean protein, this soup is a healthy choice that doesn’t compromise on flavor.
• Versatile Meal Option: Enjoy it as a standalone dish or pair it with crusty bread for a complete meal.
• Comforting Flavor: The combination of chicken and fresh veggies creates a cozy bowl of warmth that everyone will love.
• Family-Friendly Dish: Kids and adults alike will appreciate the wholesome taste of this Sicilian Chicken Soup.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start making your Sicilian Chicken Soup, gather the essential tools that will help you create this delicious dish effortlessly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Large soup pot: Essential for cooking the soup evenly without spilling over.
• Sharp knife: Makes chopping vegetables quick and easy, ensuring uniform pieces for even cooking.

Ingredients

For the Chicken and Vegetables

• 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
• 4 cloves garlic, chopped

For the Broth

• 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)

For the Pasta and Garnish

• 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:
* Place the chicken thighs in the pot.
* Add the chopped onions, celery, carrots, bell pepper, potatoes, garlic, diced tomatoes, bay leaves, and kosher salt.

Step 2: Cook the Base

Next:
1. Pour in the chicken stock and water.
2. Season with fresh black pepper to taste.
3. Cover the pot and bring to a boil over medium-high heat.
4. Once boiling, reduce heat to low and simmer for about 30 minutes until chicken is tender.

Step 3: Add Pasta

After simmering:
* Carefully remove the chicken from the pot using tongs.
* Stir in the ditalini pasta.
* Continue cooking partially covered for another 13–15 minutes until pasta is tender. Remember to stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Step 4: Shred Chicken

While pasta cooks:
1. Use two forks to shred the cooked chicken into bite-sized pieces.
2. Discard skin and bones before returning shredded chicken back to the pot.

Step 5: Final Touches

Finally:
* Discard bay leaves from the soup.
* Stir in fresh parsley just before serving.

Your Sicilian Chicken Soup is now ready to be enjoyed! Serve hot for a comforting meal that warms both heart and soul.

How to Serve Sicilian Chicken Soup

Sicilian Chicken Soup is a warm and hearty dish perfect for any occasion. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to enhance your meal experience.

With Fresh Bread

• Crusty Baguette: Serve slices of fresh baguette on the side, perfect for dipping into the soup.
• Garlic Bread: Spread butter and garlic on slices of bread, toast them, and pair them with the soup for added flavor.

Topped with Cheese

• Parmesan Shavings: Add freshly shaved Parmesan cheese on top for a rich, savory finish.
• Mozzarella Crumbles: Sprinkle crumbled mozzarella for a creamy texture that melts beautifully in the hot soup.

Accompanied by Salads

• Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad complements the soup’s flavors while adding a crisp texture.
• Italian Chopped Salad: This colorful salad brings fresh veggies and tangy dressing to balance the heartiness of the soup.

With Extra Herbs

• Fresh Basil: Garnish with fresh basil leaves for a fragrant touch that elevates the dish.
• Chopped Cilantro: If you enjoy a bit of zest, cilantro adds an exciting flavor contrast.

How to Perfect Sicilian Chicken Soup

To make your Sicilian Chicken Soup even more delightful, consider these tips that will enhance its flavor and texture.

• Use High-Quality Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and good-quality chicken stock can greatly improve the overall taste.
• Adjust Seasonings to Taste: Don’t hesitate to tweak salt and pepper levels based on your palate preference.
• Cook Pasta Al Dente: For the best texture, cook ditalini pasta just until it’s al dente; it will soften further in the soup.
• Let It Simmer Longer: If time allows, let the soup simmer longer than 30 minutes for deeper flavors.
• Add Lemon Juice Before Serving: A splash of lemon juice brightens up the flavors and adds a refreshing twist.
• Store Properly: If you have leftovers, store them in airtight containers in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently before serving.

Best Side Dishes for Sicilian Chicken Soup

Pairing side dishes with your Sicilian Chicken Soup can elevate your meal. Here are some fantastic options to consider:

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic provide a comforting side that complements the soup well.
2. Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with diced tomatoes, basil, and olive oil makes a light appetizer that pairs beautifully.
3. Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic reduction add freshness alongside your soup.
4. Antipasto Platter: A mix of cured meats, cheeses, olives, and pickled vegetables creates a delightful starter experience.
5. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies bring out natural sweetness and add crunch to balance the soft textures of the soup.
6. Focaccia Bread: This soft Italian bread is perfect for dipping into your hearty bowl of Sicilian Chicken Soup.
7. Stuffed Peppers: Bell peppers filled with rice or quinoa offer a nutritious side option that pairs nicely with chicken soup.
8. Pasta Salad: A cold pasta salad with vibrant veggies gives a nice textural contrast to warm soup dishes.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can make your Sicilian Chicken Soup even better. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for.

• Overcooking the chicken: If you cook the chicken too long, it will become dry. Ensure you remove it when it’s tender and falling off the bone.
• Skipping the seasoning: Many home cooks forget to season their soups adequately. Always taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
• Not stirring the pasta: Pasta can stick together if not stirred occasionally while cooking. Make sure to stir the soup a couple of times during the cooking process.
• Ignoring veggie sizes: Cutting vegetables into inconsistent sizes can lead to uneven cooking. Aim for uniform pieces for even tenderness.
• Using high-sodium stock: High-sodium chicken stock can overpower your soup flavor. Opt for low-sodium versions to control the saltiness better.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• item Store leftover Sicilian Chicken Soup in an airtight container.
• item It will keep well in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing Sicilian Chicken Soup

• item Allow the soup to cool completely before freezing.
• item Use freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some space for expansion.
• item The soup can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Sicilian Chicken Soup

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat in an oven-safe dish until warmed through, about 20-30 minutes.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover, and heat in short intervals, stirring in between, until hot.
• Stovetop: Heat over medium-low heat in a pot, stirring occasionally until hot throughout.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Sicilian Chicken Soup that might help you.

What makes Sicilian Chicken Soup different?

Sicilian Chicken Soup stands out due to its combination of fresh vegetables, tender chicken, and ditalini pasta, creating a hearty and nourishing dish.

Can I use different types of pasta?

Yes! While ditalini is traditional, feel free to substitute with any small pasta varieties like elbow macaroni or orzo.

How do I customize my Sicilian Chicken Soup?

You can add other vegetables like zucchini or spinach, or try different herbs such as thyme or oregano for added flavor.

Is this soup healthy?

Absolutely! This soup is packed with lean protein from chicken and plenty of vitamins from vegetables, making it a nutritious option.

Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes! Preparing Sicilian Chicken Soup a day ahead allows flavors to meld beautifully. Just store it properly as mentioned earlier.

Final Thoughts

Sicilian Chicken Soup is not only comforting and delicious but also versatile enough for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or planning a cozy gathering, this recipe fits perfectly. Don’t hesitate to customize it with your favorite veggies or herbs!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Sicilian Chicken Soup

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• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 1 hour
• Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x

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Description

Sicilian Chicken Soup is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for warming you up on chilly evenings. This hearty dish combines tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and ditalini pasta in a flavorful broth that will satisfy your cravings. With its rich flavors and nourishing ingredients, this soup is not only delicious but also a healthy choice for family dinners. Whether served alone or alongside crusty bread, Sicilian Chicken Soup is sure to become a favorite in your household.

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Ingredients

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• 4 bone-in-skin-on chicken thighs
• 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 no-salt diced tomatoes
• 1 Tbsp kosher salt
• 32 oz low-sodium chicken stock
• ½ cup dry ditalini pasta
• Fresh 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 kosher salt.
2. Add chicken stock and a few cups of water; season with fresh black pepper. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat.
3. Reduce heat to low and simmer for about 30 minutes until chicken is tender.
4. Carefully remove the chicken; stir in ditalini pasta and cook uncovered for an additional 13–15 minutes until pasta is tender.
5. Shred the cooked chicken using two forks; return it to the pot and discard skin and bones. Stir in chopped parsley before serving.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Simmering
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 bowl (about 300g)
• Calories: 330
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 600mg
• Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 34g
• Fiber: 5g
• Protein: 25g
• Cholesterol: 90mg