Sicilian Chicken Soup: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe

Name: Sicilian Chicken Soup
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 60 min
Ingredients: 4 bone-in-skin-on chicken thighs (about 2 pounds); 1 medium onion (chopped (about 1 cup)); 3 celery ribs (chopped (about 2 cups)); 3 medium carrots (chopped (about 1 ½ cups)); 1 large yellow bell pepper (chopped); 2 medium russet potatoes (1 pound, peeled and cut into ¾-inch cubes); 4 cloves garlic (chopped); 1 can (14.5 oz no-salt diced tomatoes); 2 dry bay leaves; 1 Tbsp. kosher salt; 1 carton (32 oz low-sodium chicken stock); 4 cups water (or chicken stock½ cup dry ditalini pasta); ½ cup fresh chopped Italian parsley; Fresh black pepper (to taste)

Introduction to Sicilian Chicken Soup

There’s something incredibly comforting about a warm bowl of chicken soup, especially when it’s made with vibrant ingredients and a touch of love. This Sicilian Chicken Soup is not only hearty but also packed with flavor, making it a perfect dish for any day of the week. Whether you’re feeling under the weather or just want to enjoy a delicious meal, this soup is sure to warm your heart and soul.

A Personal Story Behind My Sicilian Chicken Soup Journey

Growing up, my grandmother would often make her famous chicken soup on chilly afternoons. The aroma would fill the house, drawing everyone to the kitchen. This Sicilian Chicken Soup reminds me of those cozy family moments, where laughter and stories were shared over steaming bowls. It’s a recipe that has been passed down through generations, and I cherish the memories it evokes.

What Makes This Sicilian Chicken Soup Recipe Special?

This recipe stands out for its blend of fresh vegetables and tender chicken, making each bite a delightful experience. The addition of ditalini pasta gives it a unique texture, while the fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness. Plus, using no-salt diced tomatoes ensures that you control the flavor without overwhelming the dish. It’s a simple yet satisfying meal that embodies the essence of home-cooked goodness.

The Full Sicilian Chicken Soup Recipe

Ingredients

4 bone-in-skin-on chicken thighs (about 2 pounds)
1 medium onion, chopped (about 1 cup)
3 celery ribs, chopped (about 2 cups)
3 medium carrots, chopped (about 1 ½ cups)
1 large yellow bell pepper, chopped
2 medium russet potatoes (1 pound), peeled and cut into ¾-inch cubes
4 cloves garlic, chopped
1 can (14.5 oz) no-salt diced tomatoes
2 dry bay leaves
1 Tbsp. kosher salt
1 carton (32 oz) low-sodium chicken stock
4 cups water (or chicken stock)½ cup dry ditalini pasta

½ cup fresh chopped Italian parsley
Fresh black pepper, to taste

Instructions

In a large soup pot (at least 6 quarts), combine the chicken, onions, celery, carrots, bell pepper, potatoes, garlic, tomatoes, bay leaves, and salt. This mix of ingredients creates a flavorful base for your soup.
Add chicken stock and water. Season with black pepper. Cover and bring to a boil. Once boiling, reduce heat to low and simmer, partially covered, for about 30 minutes or until chicken is tender and easily falls off the bones. Helpful tip: Keep the heat low to avoid overcooking the veggies.

Using tongs, carefully remove the chicken from the pot. Add the ditalini pasta to the soup and continue cooking for 13-15 minutes, partially covered, until the pasta is tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
While the pasta cooks, shred the chicken using two forks, discarding the skin and bones. Return the shredded chicken to the pot. Check the doneness of the vegetables, especially the potatoes; they should be soft but not mushy.
Discard the bay leaves. Stir in chopped parsley and serve hot. For an extra touch of flavor, consider sprinkling some grated Parmesan cheese on top before serving.

Serving Suggestions and Variations for Sicilian Chicken Soup

This soup is delicious on its own, but you can elevate the experience by serving it with crusty bread or a fresh side salad. For additional flavor, consider adding a squeeze of lemon juice or a dash of hot sauce. If you want to make it heartier, feel free to include more vegetables like spinach or zucchini. This recipe is versatile and can be adjusted to suit your taste preferences!

Frequently Asked Questions About Sicilian Chicken Soup

Can I use leftover chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! Using leftover rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver and adds even more flavor to the soup.

Can I freeze Sicilian Chicken Soup?
Yes, this soup freezes well! Just make sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can last up to 3 months in the freezer.

What if I don’t have ditalini pasta?
You can substitute with any small pasta shape you have on hand, such as elbow macaroni or orzo.