Name: Sicilian Chicken Soup
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 1 h 15 min
Total time: 1 h 30 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 ½ pounds bone-in chicken thighs or breasts; 2 cups carrots, chopped; 2 cups celery, chopped; 1 large onion, diced; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with juice; 2 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed; 6 cups chicken broth or water; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste); ¼ teaspoon black pepper; ½ cup small pasta like ditalini (optional); 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley; 1 tablespoon olive oil

Comforting, vibrant, and deeply nourishing, Sicilian Chicken Soup is the kind of meal that warms you from the inside out. Whether you’re craving something cozy on a rainy day or need a pick-me-up when you’re feeling under the weather, this hearty soup is packed with flavor and wholesome goodness. With tender chicken, colorful vegetables, and a rich, savory broth, it brings rustic Italian charm straight to your table.

What sets this soup apart is its balance of earthiness and brightness. It’s not just a chicken soup—it’s a celebration of Mediterranean ingredients like garlic, tomato, and herbs. Each spoonful is a layered experience of textures and tastes, from soft carrots and celery to perfectly shredded chicken and a hint of spice.

What Kind of Chicken Should I Use?

For the most flavorful Sicilian Chicken Soup, bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs or breasts are ideal. They provide richness and depth to the broth during simmering. However, boneless options work well if you need to save time—just consider adding a splash of chicken stock concentrate to boost flavor.

Ingredients for the Sicilian Chicken Soup

Chicken: The heart of the soup, providing protein and richness. Use bone-in for the best broth.
Carrots: Add natural sweetness and color.
Celery: Gives that essential aromatic base.
Onion: Deepens the flavor and adds warmth.
Garlic: Classic Mediterranean touch that enhances all the other ingredients.
Diced Tomatoes: For a subtle acidity and brightness.
Potatoes: Hearty and filling—a staple in Sicilian-style comfort food.
Pasta (optional): Small pasta like ditalini can be added for texture.
Parsley: Adds freshness at the end.
Italian Seasoning: A blend of herbs that ties everything together.
Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning.

How To Make the Sicilian Chicken Soup

Step 1: Build Your Flavor Base

In a large stockpot or Dutch oven, heat a bit of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, celery, and carrots. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until softened and fragrant.

Step 2: Add the Garlic and Tomatoes

Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Then add in the diced tomatoes with their juices. Let everything simmer together for 3-4 minutes.

Step 3: Add the Chicken and Broth

Nestle your chicken pieces into the pot. Pour in enough water or low-sodium chicken broth to cover everything well. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Skim off any foam that rises to the surface.

Step 4: Simmer and Develop Flavor

Let the soup simmer gently for 45 minutes to an hour. This is where the magic happens as the flavors meld together and the chicken becomes tender.

Step 5: Remove and Shred Chicken

Carefully take the chicken out of the pot and set it aside to cool slightly. Shred it with two forks, discarding bones and skin if used. Return the shredded chicken to the pot.

Step 6: Add Potatoes and Pasta (Optional)

Add cubed potatoes and let simmer until tender, about 15 minutes. If you’re adding pasta, stir it in about 10 minutes before the potatoes are fully cooked so it doesn’t overcook.

Step 7: Finish with Seasoning and Herbs

Season the soup generously with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Stir in freshly chopped parsley just before serving for a bright, herby finish.

How to Serve and Store Sicilian Chicken Soup

Sicilian Chicken Soup is best served hot, garnished with a generous sprinkle of fresh parsley and a drizzle of good-quality olive oil. For a fuller meal, pair it with crusty Italian bread or a light salad. If you’ve added pasta, serve immediately to enjoy the perfect al dente texture.

To store leftovers, allow the soup to cool completely before transferring to airtight containers. It keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze the soup (without pasta, if used) for up to 3 months. Reheat gently over low heat to preserve flavor and texture.

Frequently Asked Questions

What if I don’t have fresh parsley?

You can use dried parsley in a pinch, though fresh offers the best flavor. A little chopped basil or oregano works beautifully too.

Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?

Yes! Sauté the veggies first, then add all ingredients to your slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours. Add pasta in the last 30 minutes.

Is this soup gluten-free?

It can be! Just skip the pasta or use a gluten-free variety. Be sure your broth is labeled gluten-free as well.

What other vegetables can I add?

Zucchini, spinach, or green beans all make great additions. Add them during the last 10-15 minutes of cooking.

Can I use rotisserie chicken?

Absolutely. Just add it toward the end of cooking since it’s already cooked, and simmer briefly to blend flavors.

How do I keep the pasta from getting mushy?

If making ahead, cook the pasta separately and add it to individual servings to keep it perfectly textured.

Want More Soup Ideas with a Cozy Twist?

If you love this Sicilian Chicken Soup, you’ll probably enjoy these other comforting bowls of goodness:

Creamy Shrimp Chowder for a rich seafood delight.
Zesty Tuscan Artichoke Soup when you’re craving Mediterranean flair.
Crockpot Thai Coconut Chicken Soup with a sweet-spicy profile.
Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup for that extra savory punch.
Garlic Herb Roasted Potatoes and Veggies as a cozy side option.

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time: Life with Nina on Pinterest.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you go with bone-in chicken or a quick rotisserie version? Try a different veggie mix?

I love hearing your creative spins on these cozy recipes. Don’t hesitate to ask questions or share your favorite soup tips in the comments!

Sicilian Chicken Soup

Author: Nina Johnson
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Category: Soup
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: Italian

Print Recipe

Description

This Sicilian Chicken Soup is a comforting, hearty blend of Mediterranean flavors featuring tender chicken, aromatic vegetables, and a savory broth. Whether you need a cozy meal on a chilly evening or a nourishing dish when you’re under the weather, this recipe delivers warmth and depth in every bowl.

Instructions

1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onions, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until soft and fragrant.

2. Add minced garlic and stir for 1 minute. Stir in the diced tomatoes and simmer for 3-4 minutes.

3. Add the chicken pieces to the pot. Pour in chicken broth or water to cover everything. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer. Skim off any foam.

4. Simmer uncovered for 45 minutes to 1 hour to develop flavor and tenderize the chicken.

5. Remove chicken from the pot, let cool slightly, shred using two forks, and return it to the soup.

6. Add cubed potatoes and simmer for 15 minutes. If using pasta, stir it in during the last 10 minutes.

7. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Stir in fresh parsley just before serving.