Why Make This Recipe

Sicilian Chicken Soup is a warm and comforting dish that brings the flavors of Sicily right to your kitchen. It is perfect for chilly days or when you want something hearty and nourishing. This soup is packed with vegetables and tender chicken, making it a balanced meal for the whole family. The combination of spices, fresh herbs, and the richness of chicken broth gives it a vibrant taste that will leave everyone wanting more.

How to Make Sicilian Chicken Soup

Ingredients:

2 tablespoons Olive oil (For sautéing)
1 medium Onion, diced (For aromatic base)
2 stalks Celery, diced (For aromatic base)
2 medium Carrots, diced (For sweetness)
3 cloves Garlic, minced (For warmth)
2 medium Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes, diced (For texture)
1 can Crushed tomatoes or petite diced tomatoes (For depth of flavor)
6 cups Low sodium chicken broth (For the soup base)
4 pieces Bone-in chicken thighs (For rich flavor and tenderness)
1 cup Small pasta (like ditalini or orzo), optional (To make the soup heartier)
1 medium Lemon, zested and juiced (For brightness)
1 teaspoon Oregano, dried (Classic seasoning)
1 bay leaf (For flavor depth)
1/4 teaspoon Red pepper flakes (For warmth)
1/4 cup Fresh parsley, chopped (For garnish)
Parmesan rind, optional (For umami boost)

Directions:

Build the Base: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion, celery, and carrots. Sauté until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
Simmer and Finish: Add the diced potatoes, crushed tomatoes, and chicken broth to the pot. Stir in the chicken thighs, oregano, bay leaf, and red pepper flakes. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer for about 30-40 minutes, or until the chicken is tender. Remove the chicken, shred it, and return it to the pot. If using pasta, add it in the last 10 minutes of cooking. Finish by adding lemon zest and juice.
Slow Cooker Method: If using a slow cooker, sauté the vegetables as above. Then, transfer everything to the slow cooker, including the spices and chicken. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. Shred the chicken and stir in the lemon before serving.

How to Serve Sicilian Chicken Soup

Serve the soup hot in bowls, garnished with chopped fresh parsley. For a heartier meal, add a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese on top. Pair it with crusty bread for dipping, and enjoy the comforting flavors of Sicilian Chicken Soup.

How to Store Sicilian Chicken Soup

To store the soup, let it cool completely. Transfer it to an airtight container and keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. If you want to keep it longer, freeze the soup in portions. It can be kept in the freezer for up to 3 months. Just thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Tips to Make Sicilian Chicken Soup

For extra flavor, brown the chicken thighs in the pot before adding the vegetables.
Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for added nutrition.
Adjust the level of spiciness by adding more or less red pepper flakes according to your taste.

Variation

You can make a vegetarian version by substituting the chicken with chickpeas or beans and using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can also omit the pasta for a lighter soup.

FAQs

Can I use different types of chicken?
Yes, you can use boneless chicken breast or rotisserie chicken for a quicker meal.
What if I don’t have fresh parsley?
Dried parsley can be a good substitute, but fresh herbs add a better flavor.
Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes, this soup tastes even better the next day, so it’s a great choice for meal prep. Just store it in the refrigerator after cooling.