Sicilian Chicken Soup

Sicilian Chicken Soup is a hearty, comforting dish rooted in the rustic cooking traditions of southern Italy. Loaded with tender chicken, vegetables, and pasta or rice, it’s simmered in a rich broth infused with Mediterranean herbs. Perfect for chilly days or when you’re feeling under the weather, this soup is nourishing and full of old-world flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Warm, soothing, and packed with nutrients
• A complete one-pot meal with protein, veggies, and carbs
• Easy to customize with pantry staples
• Ideal for meal prep and leftovers
• Freezes well for future meals
• Family-friendly and comforting
• Naturally dairy-free
• Bursting with Italian-inspired flavor

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Chicken thighs or breasts, bone-in and skinless
• Olive oil
• Onion, chopped
• Celery, chopped
• Carrots, sliced
• Garlic, minced
• Potatoes, cubed
• Diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
• Chicken broth
• Small pasta (like ditalini or orzo) or rice
• Italian seasoning
• Fresh parsley
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

directions

1. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion, celery, and carrots. Sauté until softened, about 5–7 minutes.
2. Stir in garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Add chicken, diced tomatoes, potatoes, broth, and Italian seasoning. Bring to a boil.
4. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 25–30 minutes until chicken is cooked through and vegetables are tender.
5. Remove chicken from the pot, shred it, and return it to the soup.
6. Stir in pasta or rice and cook until tender (about 10–12 minutes for pasta or 15 minutes for rice).
7. Season with salt, pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes to taste.
8. Stir in fresh parsley before serving.

Servings and timing

Servings: 6
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 45 minutes
Total time: 1 hour

Variations

• Low-carb version: Omit pasta or rice and add more vegetables like zucchini or spinach.
• Spicy twist: Add more crushed red pepper or sliced chili peppers.
• Creamy version: Stir in a splash of cream or coconut milk for a richer broth.
• Lemon-herb: Add fresh lemon juice and zest for a bright flavor.
• Vegetarian version: Substitute chicken with chickpeas or cannellini beans and use vegetable broth.

storage/reheating

Store the soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat or in the microwave until warmed through. If the soup thickens in the fridge, add a splash of broth or water when reheating. For longer storage, freeze the soup (without pasta or rice) for up to 3 months. Add cooked pasta or rice when serving.

FAQs

What makes this soup “Sicilian”?

Sicilian chicken soup typically features Mediterranean ingredients like tomatoes, garlic, and herbs, reflecting the flavors of southern Italy.

Can I use boneless chicken?

Yes, boneless chicken thighs or breasts work well and cut down on cooking time.

Can I make this in a slow cooker?

Absolutely. Cook on low for 6–8 hours or on high for 3–4 hours, adding pasta during the last 30 minutes.

What type of pasta works best?

Small pasta like ditalini, orzo, or elbow macaroni holds up well in soup.

Is this soup good for colds or flu?

Yes, it’s packed with nutrients, hydration, and warmth, making it a classic comfort for illness.

Can I add greens like spinach or kale?

Yes, stir in fresh greens during the last 5 minutes of cooking for added nutrition.

Can I use leftover chicken?

Definitely. Just add it shredded once the vegetables are tender and heat through.

What’s the best way to thicken the soup?

Let it simmer uncovered to reduce, or mash a few potatoes in the broth for a thicker consistency.

Does this soup freeze well?

Yes, but for best results, freeze without pasta or rice and add fresh when reheating.

Can I substitute the potatoes?

You can use sweet potatoes, parsnips, or extra carrots as alternatives.

Conclusion

Sicilian Chicken Soup is a soul-warming dish that brings the cozy flavors of southern Italy to your kitchen. With its nourishing ingredients, rich broth, and customizable additions, it’s a reliable recipe you’ll want to make again and again. Whether for weeknight dinners or sick days, this soup offers comfort and flavor in every spoonful.

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