What is a soup that’s basically liquid sunshine on tuesday? Sicilian Chicken Soup. Is Nonna hiding in the kitchen? If you’re a fan of Chicken Noodle Soup, think of this as its vibrant, sun-kissed cousin from across the Atlantic. This isn’t your typical chicken soup. Is it got a little zest, spice, and love? Is this one of those recipes that I pull out when I need a hug in my bowl? I love this song. It hits the spot.

What is Sicilian Chicken Soup?

Think of it as the Mediterranean vacation your taste buds have been dreaming of. It’s essentially a Chicken Soup base elevated with classic Sicilian flavors. We’re talking juicy chicken, hearty vegetables like carrots, celery, and zucchini, and a bright, tangy tomato broth. The magic ingredient? A touch of lemon and fresh herbs like basil and oregano, which really bring the whole thing to life. It’s not complicated, and that’s the beauty of it. Just wholesome ingredients combined to create something truly special. My grandmother, bless her heart, used to make a version of this every Sunday, and the whole house would smell incredible. It’s a simple dish but it creates such a comforting feeling.

Why you’ll love this recipe?

Oh, where do I even begin? First and foremost, the flavor is just incredible. The combination of the savory chicken, the sweetness of the carrots, the slight tang of the tomatoes, and that burst of fresh herbs is just… *chef’s kiss*. What I love most about this is how easy it is. Seriously, this is a weeknight lifesaver. You can throw everything into one pot and let it simmer away while you tackle other things. It’s also incredibly cost-effective. Chicken thighs are budget-friendly, and the vegetables are readily available at any grocery store. Plus, it’s so versatile! You can easily customize it with different veggies you have on hand, or add a pinch of red pepper flakes if you like a little heat. If you enjoy dishes like Italian Wedding Soup or even just Classic Chicken Noodle, you’ll absolutely adore this Sicilian twist. I have to say, sometimes I think this Sicilian version is even better, especially on a day when you need a real pick-me-up!

How do I make Sicilian Chicken Soup?

Quick Overview

Making this soup is honestly a breeze. You’ll start by sautéing your veggies to build a flavorful base, then add in your chicken, broth, and tomatoes. Simmer until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender, then stir in your herbs and lemon juice. The key is to let it simmer long enough for all the flavors to meld together. Trust me, the longer it simmers, the better it gets. It’s really that simple!

Ingredients

For the Soup:
* 2 tablespoons Olive Oil
* 1 large onion, chopped
* 2 carrots, chopped
* 2 celery stalks, chopped
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
* 6 cups chicken broth (low sodium is best so you can control the salt)
* 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
* 1 teaspoon dried oregano
* 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
* 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, but I highly recommend it!)
* 1 zucchini, chopped
* Salt and pepper to taste

For the Finishing Touches:
* 2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped * 1 tablespoon lemon.

What are the Step-

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

How do you heat olive oil in a Dutch oven? Add the onion, carrots, celery and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. This step builds the foundation of flavor, so don’t rush it!

Step 2: Add Chicken and Brown

Add the chicken pieces to the pot and cook until browned on all sides. You don’t need to cook them all the way through, just get a nice sear on them. What is the best way to brown chicken in a pan? If your chicken releases a lot of liquid, just let it evaporate before proceeding.

Step 3: Simmer the Soup

How do I make chicken broth and diced tomatoes? Stir in the oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes (if using). Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for at least 30 minutes, or up to an hour, until the water is tender. Chicken is cooked through and tender. The longer it simmers, the more the flavors will meld together.

Step 4: Add Zucchini

Add the zucchini to the pot and cook for another 5 minutes, or until tender. I like to add zucchini at the end so it doesn’t get mushy.

Step 5: Finish with Fresh Herbs and Lemon

What are some good ways to stir together fresh basil, parsley, and lemon juice. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Lemon juice adds a nice zing to soup. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

What’s your favorite soup recipe? How do you make Sicilian Chicken Soup?

What should I serve it with?

This soup is great on its own, but it’s even better with some crusty bread for dipping. What is a good side salad to serve with the soup?For a casual lunch:Serve with grilled cheese sandwich or a simple panini. The warmth of the sandwich paired with the soup is just perfection.What is a cozy dinner?What are some good side dishes to serve with focaccia? I also sometimes make a big green salad with lemon vinaigrette to serve alongside.For a potluck:What are some great recipes for soup that travels well? What should I do with my bread?

How do I make Sicilian Chicken Soup?

What are some tips and tricks to take soup to the next level?Chicken Thighs:I highly recommend using chicken thighs for this recipe. Is it better to eat chicken breasts than chicken thighs?Vegetable Prep Make sure to chop your vegetables into similar sizes so they cook evenly.

Simmer Time:Don’t rush the simmering process. The longer the soup simmers, the more the flavors will meld together and deepen. I usually aim for 30 minutes, but an hour is even better.Herbs: Fresh herbs make a huge difference in this soup. If you don’t have fresh herbs on hand, you can use dried, but reduce the amount by half.

Lemon Juice: Don’t skip the lemon juice! It brightens up the flavors and adds a lovely zing to the soup.

Spice Level:If you like a little heat, add some red pepper flakes to the soup. What are some good ways to serve hot sauce at the end of a meal?Salt:Taste the soup frequently and adjust the seasoning as needed. Salt is the key to bringing out all the flavors. I always use low-sodium broth so I can control the salt level myself.Additions:What are some good vegetables to add to this soup? Just add them in during the last 10-15 minutes of cooking time. Some people like to add a little pasta during the last 10 minutes as well. I actually tried this once with a gluten free pasta and it turned out fantastic!

What are some Storing and Reheating Tips?

What’s the best soup to make the next day?Refrigerator:Can you store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days? I always let the soup cool completely before refrigerating it.Freezer:This soup freezes well. Store it in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. How do you know if you made the container? To thaw, place the container in the refrigerator overnight, or use the defrost setting on your refrigerator.Reheating:Is it safe to cook soup in the microwave? If reheating on the stovetop, add a little extra broth or water if the soup has thickened too much. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Be sure to bring it to a safe internal temperature before serving.

What are the most frequently asked questions on

Can I make this vegetarian?

Absolutely! You can easily make this soup vegetarian by using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth, and omitting the chicken. Add some cannellini beans or chickpeas for extra protein.

Can I use chicken breasts instead of chicken thighs?

You can, but chicken thighs are more flavorful and stay juicier. If you use chicken breasts, be careful not to overcook them, as they can become dry. You might want to add them a little later in the cooking process.

Can I add pasta to this soup?

Yes! Ditalini or orzo pasta are great additions. Add about 1/2 cup of pasta to the soup during the last 10 minutes of cooking time, or until the pasta is tender.

Can I make this in a slow cooker?

Yes! Sauté the vegetables in a skillet first, then transfer them to a slow cooker along with the chicken, broth, tomatoes, and spices. Cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is cooked through. Stir in the zucchini, herbs, and lemon juice during the last 30 minutes of cooking time.

What if I don’t have fresh herbs?

You can use dried herbs, but reduce the amount by half. So, instead of 2 tablespoons of fresh basil, use 1 tablespoon of dried basil. Fresh herbs are always best, but dried will work in a pinch.

Final Thoughts

This Sicilian Chicken Soup is more than just a recipe; it’s a taste of home, a warm hug on a cold day, and a reminder of the simple joys in life. It’s a dish that’s been passed down through generations in my family, and I’m so excited to share it with you. The best part? It’s incredibly easy to make, and the flavors are just out of this world. If you’re looking for a comforting and flavorful soup that’s also good for you, look no further. And if you love this recipe, be sure to check out my other soup recipes for more delicious inspiration. Happy cooking, friends! I can’t wait to hear how it turns out for you. Leave a comment below and let me know what you think! Also, I’m always looking for new variations – so share your tips if you’ve got ‘em!

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