Sicilian Chicken Soup

Introduction

Few things warm the soul quite like a steaming bowl of chicken soup. But when it comes to Sicilian Chicken Soup, we’re talking about something far more special than the classic comfort food we all know. This Italian-inspired version is bold, vibrant, and layered with Mediterranean flavors — a perfect balance of hearty vegetables, tender chicken, and delicate pasta simmered together in a flavorful broth.

This recipe is as authentic as it is comforting, featuring wholesome ingredients like bone-in chicken thighs, colorful vegetables, russet potatoes, and a hint of tomato for richness. The result is a rustic soup that feels like it came straight from a Sicilian grandmother’s kitchen.

Whether you’re looking for a cozy winter meal, a restorative dish for when someone’s under the weather, or a simple way to feed the whole family, Sicilian Chicken Soup is a timeless favorite that never disappoints. Every spoonful delivers warmth, comfort, and a taste of Italy.

What makes this recipe especially delightful is how simple it is to make from scratch. With just one large pot and under an hour of simmering, you’ll have a meal that tastes like it’s been slow-cooked all day.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Comforting and nourishing: This soup is both filling and wholesome, thanks to the protein-packed chicken, nutrient-rich veggies, and gentle starch of potatoes and pasta.
• Authentic Sicilian flair: The combination of tomatoes, bay leaves, and Italian parsley infuses a Mediterranean touch that sets it apart from traditional chicken soups.
• Perfect one-pot meal: Everything cooks in the same pot — minimal cleanup, maximum flavor.
• Customizable and forgiving: Easily adjust the seasoning or add spice for a kick reminiscent of Carrabba’s famous version.
• Family-friendly favorite: A crowd-pleasing dish loved by both kids and adults, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or Sunday lunches.
• Freezer-friendly: This soup freezes beautifully, so you can enjoy a bowl of comfort whenever you crave it.

Ingredients Breakdown

Servings: 8

Main Ingredients

• 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (2 pounds) – The star of the soup, providing deep flavor and richness as the bones and skin simmer in the broth.
• 1 medium onion, chopped (about 1 cup) – A classic aromatic base that builds depth.
• 3 celery ribs, chopped (about 2 cups) – Adds subtle earthiness and structure to the broth.
• 3 medium carrots, chopped (about 1½ cups) – Sweet and colorful, they balance the savory flavors.
• 1 large yellow bell pepper, chopped – Adds brightness and a gentle sweetness that complements the tomato base.
• 2 medium russet potatoes (1 pound), peeled and cut into ¾-inch cubes – Hearty and satisfying, they thicken the soup naturally.
• 4 cloves garlic, chopped – For a fragrant, savory foundation.
• 1 (14.5 oz) can no-salt diced tomatoes – Adds a Sicilian touch of acidity and depth.
• 2 dry bay leaves – Imparts subtle herbal notes that tie the broth together.
• 1 tablespoon kosher salt – Enhances all the flavors while keeping the broth well-seasoned.
• 1 (32 oz) carton low-sodium chicken stock – Forms the base of the soup, rich and flavorful.
• 4 cups water (or chicken stock) – Keeps the broth balanced and ensures enough liquid for the pasta and vegetables.
• ½ cup dry ditalini pasta – Classic short pasta shape, traditionally used in Italian soups.
• ½ cup fresh chopped Italian parsley – For a bright, fresh finish.
• Fresh black pepper, to taste – Adds mild heat and completes the flavor profile.

Tools & Equipment Needed

To make Sicilian Chicken Soup effortlessly, you’ll need:

• 6-quart soup pot or Dutch oven – Large enough to hold the chicken, broth, and vegetables.
• Cutting board and sharp chef’s knife – For prepping your vegetables and chicken.
• Measuring cups and spoons – To ensure accuracy in your seasoning and liquid ratios.
• Wooden spoon or heatproof spatula – For stirring and preventing pasta from sticking.
• Tongs – For safely removing the cooked chicken from the pot.
• Two forks – For shredding the chicken.
• Ladle – For serving the soup neatly.
• Storage containers – If you’re planning to refrigerate or freeze leftovers.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Combine the Ingredients

In a large 6-quart soup pot, add the chicken thighs, onions, celery, carrots, bell pepper, potatoes, garlic, diced tomatoes, bay leaves, and salt. Pour in the chicken stock and water. Season lightly with freshly ground black pepper.

2. Simmer the Soup

Cover the pot and bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and simmer partially covered for 30 minutes, or until the chicken is tender and easily falls off the bone. This slow simmer allows the flavors to meld beautifully while the broth becomes rich and aromatic.

3. Remove and Shred the Chicken

Using tongs, carefully lift the chicken thighs out of the soup. Place them on a cutting board and let them cool slightly. Then, remove and discard the skin and bones, shredding the meat into bite-sized pieces with two forks.

4. Cook the Pasta

While you’re shredding the chicken, add the ditalini pasta directly into the simmering soup. Cook for 13–15 minutes, stirring occasionally so the pasta doesn’t stick to the bottom of the pot.

5. Return the Chicken

Once the pasta is nearly tender, return the shredded chicken to the pot. Stir everything together and let it simmer for a few more minutes until all ingredients are heated through. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed — especially salt and pepper.

6. Finish and Serve

Remove the bay leaves, stir in the fresh parsley, and ladle the soup into warm bowls. Serve immediately while steaming hot, ideally with a slice of crusty bread or homemade focaccia for dipping.

Tips & Variations

Make It Spicy

For a kick reminiscent of Carrabba’s Sicilian Chicken Soup, add 1½ teaspoons of black pepper or a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes. The spice blends beautifully with the savory broth.

Make It Gluten-Free

Substitute the ditalini pasta with a gluten-free short pasta or even cooked rice. The rest of the recipe is naturally gluten-free.

Add More Veggies

Enhance the soup with chopped zucchini, spinach, or kale in the last 10 minutes of simmering for an extra boost of greens.

Use Drumsticks

If you don’t have chicken thighs, drumsticks work equally well and provide the same rich, flavorful broth.

Avoid Chicken Breasts

Chicken breasts tend to dry out during simmering and won’t yield the same depth of flavor as bone-in cuts. Stick with thighs or drumsticks for best results.

Flavor Profile & Pairings

Sicilian Chicken Soup delivers a comforting blend of savory, slightly sweet, and subtly tangy flavors. The rich broth from bone-in chicken creates a natural umami base, while the tomatoes lend gentle acidity. The combination of carrots, bell pepper, and parsley adds a bright freshness that keeps the soup light yet satisfying.

This soup pairs beautifully with:

• Freshly baked Italian bread or garlic knots
• Caprese salad or simple green salad with olive oil and lemon
• Parmesan crisps or herb focaccia for dipping

Nutritional Overview (Per Serving)

• Calories: 260
• Protein: 34.7 g
• Carbohydrates: 19.9 g
• Sugar: 4.6 g
• Fat: 4.1 g
• Cholesterol: 103.4 mg
• Sodium: 177.3 mg

This soup is high in protein, low in fat, and naturally nutrient-dense, making it a perfect balanced meal for lunch or dinner.

Make-Ahead & Meal Prep Tips

• Make Ahead: You can prepare the full soup up to 2 days in advance. The flavors deepen as it rests.
• Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat gently over medium heat on the stovetop.
• Freeze: Cool the soup completely, then freeze it in portioned containers for up to 3 months. For best results, freeze the soup without pasta and add freshly cooked ditalini when reheating.
• Reheating Tip: If the soup thickens after refrigeration, add a splash of chicken broth or water to restore its original consistency.

FAQs

1. Can I use rotisserie chicken instead of raw thighs?
Yes, but you’ll miss out on the rich broth developed from simmering bone-in chicken. If using rotisserie chicken, add it during the final 10 minutes of cooking.

2. Can I omit the potatoes?
You can, but they help thicken the soup naturally. If omitted, consider adding a bit more pasta or chopped zucchini for texture.

3. How do I make it vegetarian?
Replace the chicken and stock with vegetable broth and chickpeas or cannellini beans for protein.

4. What pasta alternatives work best?
Any short-cut pasta such as orzo, elbows, or small shells works well.

5. Can I make it in a slow cooker?
Yes. Combine all ingredients except the pasta and parsley in the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6–7 hours. Add pasta in the last 20–30 minutes, then finish with parsley.

Cooking Timeline (At a Glance)

Stage	Time
Prep Vegetables	10 minutes
Simmer Chicken	30 minutes
Shred Chicken	5 minutes
Cook Pasta	13–15 minutes
Final Simmer & Finish	5 minutes
Total	≈55 minutes

Serving Suggestions

Ladle the soup into deep bowls and top with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or grated Parmesan cheese. Serve with:

• Crusty artisan bread for soaking up the broth.
• Side salad with Italian vinaigrette for freshness.
• Warm flatbread brushed with olive oil and herbs for a rustic touch.

Recipe Variations

1. Lemon Chicken Sicilian Soup: Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice and a bit of zest before serving for a bright citrus twist.
2. Spicy Tomato Sicilian Soup: Include 1 teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes and an extra half can of tomatoes for a richer red broth.
3. Creamy Sicilian Soup: Stir in ½ cup of heavy cream or coconut milk at the end for a luxurious texture.
4. Vegetable-Loaded Version: Add zucchini, spinach, or peas during the final 10 minutes for a nutrient boost.

Ingredient Spotlight

Bone-In Chicken Thighs

Chicken thighs are essential for this recipe’s deep, satisfying flavor. The bones and skin release natural collagen and fat during simmering, creating a broth that’s rich without being heavy. When selecting chicken thighs, look for fresh, plump cuts with pale pink skin.

Storage Tip: Store raw chicken in its original packaging in the refrigerator for up to 2 days, or freeze it for up to 9 months. Thaw completely before use.

Ditalini Pasta

Ditalini, meaning “little thimbles,” is a staple in Italian soups and minestrones. Its small tubular shape traps broth, giving each spoonful the perfect balance of pasta and flavor. If unavailable, any small pasta like orzo or elbow macaroni will work.

Pro Cooking Tips

• Don’t rush the simmer: Allow the chicken to cook gently; rapid boiling will toughen the meat and cloud the broth.
• Layer your seasoning: Season lightly at the start and adjust at the end to avoid oversalting.
• Add pasta last: Cooking the pasta in the soup enhances flavor but be sure not to overcook it, as it continues to soften after serving.
• Remove bay leaves before serving: They add flavor during cooking but can be bitter if left in the soup.
• Fresh herbs at the end: Adding parsley right before serving keeps it bright and aromatic.

Storage & Freezing Guide

• Refrigeration: Store cooled soup in airtight containers for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: Freeze soup without pasta in labeled containers for up to 3 months.
• Reheat: Thaw overnight in the fridge and warm over medium heat. Add cooked pasta just before serving for best texture.

Nutrition Estimate Table (Per Serving)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	260
Protein	34.7 g
Carbohydrates	19.9 g
Sugars	4.6 g
Fat	4.1 g
Fiber	2 g
Sodium	177.3 mg
Cholesterol	103.4 mg

Dietary Notes: Nut-free, soy-free, high-protein, and easily adaptable for gluten-free diets.

Conclusion

Sicilian Chicken Soup is everything a comforting meal should be — hearty, wholesome, and packed with the vibrant, sun-soaked flavors of Italy. From the tender chicken and chunky vegetables to the delicate ditalini pasta and fragrant herbs, every spoonful is a reminder that simple ingredients can create something extraordinary.

It’s the kind of dish that brings people together, filling your kitchen with the scent of simmering broth and love. Whether you’re chasing away the winter chill, preparing a restorative meal for a loved one, or simply craving a taste of home-cooked comfort, this soup delivers.

So grab your largest pot, fill it with these fresh ingredients, and let it simmer away into something truly special. Once you try it, Sicilian Chicken Soup will earn a permanent spot in your weekly rotation — a bowl of sunshine straight from the heart of Italy.

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