Sicilian Chicken Soup

Chicken soup has never been easier! Sicilian Chicken Soup is a delightful dish that’s perfect for warming up on a chilly day. With its tender chunks of vegetables, flavorful chicken, and ditalini pasta, it’s sure to become a favorite in your home. This soup is versatile enough for family dinners, gatherings with friends, or simply enjoying a cozy night in.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Comforting Warmth: Nothing beats a bowl of hot soup on a cold day.
• Rich Flavor: A blend of fresh ingredients creates a savory taste that’s both satisfying and delicious.
• Easy Preparation: With straightforward steps, this recipe is beginner-friendly.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with veggies and lean protein, it’s a wholesome choice for the whole family.
• Versatile Meal Option: Perfect as an appetizer or main course, adaptable to your personal taste.

Tools and Preparation

To make the best Sicilian Chicken Soup, you’ll need some essential tools that will make the cooking process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Large soup pot: Ideal for simmering soups; its size allows all ingredients to cook evenly.
• Chef’s knife: A sharp knife makes chopping vegetables quick and efficient.
• Measuring spoons and cups: Ensures accurate ingredient quantities for balanced flavors.

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 (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

For the Broth

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

For the Pasta

• 1/2 cup dry ditalini pasta

For Garnish

• 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 chicken thighs, onions, celery, carrots, bell pepper, potatoes, garlic, tomatoes, bay leaves, and salt.

Step 2: Add Liquid

Add chicken stock and water to the pot. Season with black pepper to taste. Cover and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low and simmer partially covered for about 30 minutes or until the chicken is tender.

Step 3: Cook the Pasta

Remove the chicken from the pot using tongs. Add ditalini pasta to the soup and continue cooking for another 13–15 minutes until the pasta is tender. Remember to stir occasionally so the pasta doesn’t stick.

Step 4: Shred Chicken

While the pasta cooks, shred the chicken using two forks. Discard skin and bones before returning shredded chicken back into the pot.

Step 5: Final Touches

Discard bay leaves from the soup. Stir in chopped parsley just before serving for added freshness.

Enjoy your warm bowl of Sicilian Chicken Soup!

How to Serve Sicilian Chicken Soup

Sicilian Chicken Soup is a comforting dish that brings warmth and satisfaction to any meal. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to enhance your soup experience.

With Crusty Bread

• Serve your soup with slices of crusty bread for dipping, adding a satisfying crunch that complements the warm broth.

Topped with Fresh Herbs

• Garnish each bowl with fresh chopped Italian parsley or basil to add an aromatic touch and a burst of color.

With a Side Salad

• Pair the soup with a light mixed greens salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast to the hearty soup.

As a Main Dish

• Enjoy the soup as a standalone main dish during lunch or dinner, perfect for chilly days when you want something filling.

With Grated Cheese

• Offer grated Parmesan or Pecorino cheese on the side, allowing guests to sprinkle it over their soup for extra flavor.

How to Perfect Sicilian Chicken Soup

Achieving the perfect Sicilian Chicken Soup involves attention to detail and quality ingredients. Here are some tips to elevate your soup.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs enhance the flavor profile significantly, resulting in a richer taste.
• Adjust seasoning gradually: Start with less salt and add more as needed during cooking; this helps avoid over-salting.
• Simmer for longer: Allowing the soup to simmer longer develops deeper flavors; just be careful not to overcook the pasta.
• Shred chicken properly: Ensure you shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces for better distribution in each bowl.
• Store leftovers wisely: Keep any remaining soup in an airtight container in the fridge; it can last up to 3 days and tastes even better the next day.

Best Side Dishes for Sicilian Chicken Soup

Pairing side dishes with Sicilian Chicken Soup can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some fantastic options.

1. Garlic Bread: Toasted bread spread with garlic butter adds an irresistible aroma and flavor, perfect for dipping.
2. Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad with romaine, croutons, and creamy dressing offers a crisp and creamy contrast.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables provide sweetness and depth, complementing the savory soup perfectly.
4. Stuffed Peppers: Bell peppers stuffed with rice or quinoa create a hearty side that pairs well with chicken soup.
5. Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze make for a refreshing side option.
6. Cornbread Muffins: Sweet cornbread muffins add a delightful texture and sweetness that balance out the flavors of the soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Sicilian Chicken Soup, it’s easy to overlook a few key details that can affect the final dish. Here are some common mistakes and how to avoid them.

• Ignoring ingredient quality: Using low-quality chicken or vegetables can lead to a bland soup. Always choose fresh ingredients for the best flavor.
• Overcooking the chicken: Letting the chicken cook too long can result in dry meat. Monitor cooking time and remove it when it’s tender.
• Neglecting seasoning adjustments: Not tasting the soup as it cooks may leave it under-seasoned. Adjust salt and pepper gradually for the best taste.
• Using too much pasta: Adding excessive pasta can thicken the soup too much. Stick to the recommended amount for a balanced texture.
• Not allowing flavors to meld: Rushing through the simmering process can prevent flavors from developing fully. Allow enough time for all ingredients to blend beautifully.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Sicilian Chicken Soup in an airtight container.
• It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing Sicilian Chicken Soup

• Cool the soup completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers.
• It 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 pot until warmed through, about 20-30 minutes.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in increments of 1-2 minutes until hot.
• Stovetop: Heat over medium heat in a pot, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Sicilian Chicken Soup?

Sicilian Chicken Soup is a comforting dish made with tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and ditalini pasta simmered together for rich flavors.

Can I customize my Sicilian Chicken Soup?

Absolutely! You can add different vegetables like zucchini or spinach or substitute with different pasta shapes if desired.

How do I make Sicilian Chicken Soup healthier?

You can reduce sodium by using low-sodium broth and adding more veggies while decreasing pasta for a lighter version.

How long does Sicilian Chicken Soup last?

When stored properly, it lasts 3-4 days in the refrigerator or up to 3 months in the freezer.

Can I use leftover chicken for this recipe?

Yes! Leftover cooked chicken works well; just reduce cooking time accordingly.

Final Thoughts

Sicilian Chicken Soup is not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily customize it with your favorite vegetables or herbs. This hearty soup is perfect for warming up on chilly days or for meal prep throughout the week. Give this recipe a try and enjoy its comforting flavors!

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Sicilian Chicken Soup

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

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Description

Sicilian Chicken Soup is a warm and hearty dish perfect for those chilly days when you crave something comforting. This delightful soup features tender chunks of chicken simmered with an array of fresh vegetables and ditalini pasta, creating a rich and satisfying flavor. The combination of nutritious ingredients makes it an ideal choice for family dinners or cozy nights at home. Easy to prepare, this recipe invites you to customize it with your favorite veggies or herbs, making it versatile enough for any palate. Get ready to enjoy a bowl of wholesome goodness that not only warms the body but also nourishes the soul.

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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 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 tablespoon kosher salt
• 1 carton low-sodium chicken stock (32 oz)
• 4 cups water
• 1/2 cup dry ditalini pasta

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Instructions

1. In a large soup pot, combine chicken thighs, onions, celery, carrots, bell pepper, potatoes, garlic, tomatoes, bay leaves, and salt.
2. Add chicken stock and water to the pot. Season with black pepper to taste. Cover and bring to a boil; then reduce heat to low and simmer partially covered for about 30 minutes or until the chicken is tender.
3. Remove the chicken from the pot using tongs. Add ditalini pasta and continue cooking for another 13–15 minutes until tender.
4. Shred the chicken using two forks after removing skin and bones; return shredded chicken to the pot.
5. Discard bay leaves and stir in chopped parsley before serving.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Simmering
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 290
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 600mg
• Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 20g
• Cholesterol: 90mg