Carrabba’s Sicilian Chicken Soup Recipe

There’s something about a hearty bowl of soup that feels like a hug in a bowl, especially when the soup in question is packed with vibrant flavors, rich textures, and a comforting warmth. One of the standout dishes that perfectly encapsulates these qualities is Carrabba’s Sicilian Chicken Soup. This delicious recipe, a fan favorite from the beloved Italian-American chain, is a perfect example of how simple, fresh ingredients can come together to create something truly special.

What makes this soup so irresistible? It’s the combination of tender chicken, savory vegetables, hearty broth, and a few secret ingredients that add depth and personality to every spoonful. Whether you’re looking for something to warm you up on a cold day, or just craving a dish that feels both comforting and fresh, Carrabba’s Sicilian Chicken Soup delivers on all fronts.

Now, let’s break down this recipe in detail-everything from the ingredients to the cooking steps, expert tips, and even some tasty variations to make it your own. Ready? Let’s dive in!

Carrabba’s Sicilian Chicken Soup Recipe

Carrabba’s Sicilian Chicken Soup is a soul-warming dish that comes together in a pot of flavors. It’s not just your ordinary chicken soup-it’s brimming with an Italian flair, featuring fresh vegetables, hearty chicken, and a broth that’s light yet full of flavor. The key is in the balance: each ingredient serves a purpose, whether it’s for flavor, texture, or aroma.

Ingredients Needed

For a soup that feels like it’s straight from a cozy Italian kitchen, here’s what you’ll need to gather up:

• Olive oil – 2 tablespoons (for sautéing and flavor)
• Carrots – 1 large, peeled and sliced thinly (adds sweetness and texture)
• Celery – 2 stalks, diced (brings freshness and crunch)
• Onion – 1 medium, diced (adds savory depth)
• Garlic – 2 cloves, minced (brings an aromatic base)
• Tomatoes – 1 can (14.5 oz) diced (adds a bright, slightly tangy flavor)
• Chicken broth – 4 cups (the heart of the soup’s base)
• Rotisserie chicken – 2 cups, shredded (for convenience and flavor)
• Fresh spinach – 2 cups (adds a healthy, vibrant touch)
• Orzo pasta – 1/2 cup (adds a hearty, filling element)
• Fresh parsley – 2 tablespoons, chopped (for garnish)
• Parmesan cheese – Freshly grated, for topping (optional but highly recommended for that finishing touch)
• Salt & pepper – To taste (for seasoning)

Cooking Instructions

It’s time to bring everything together! Here’s a detailed, step-by-step guide to making this delicious soup:

1. Sauté The Vegetables

   • In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
   • Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until the vegetables soften and the onion becomes translucent.
   • Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, just until it’s fragrant.

2. Add Tomatoes And Broth

   • Stir in the diced tomatoes (with juices) and the chicken broth.
   • Bring everything to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Let it cook for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

3. Incorporate The Chicken And Orzo

   • Stir in the shredded rotisserie chicken and orzo pasta. Continue to simmer for an additional 8-10 minutes, or until the orzo is tender. The pasta should have absorbed some of the delicious broth by this point.

4. Add Spinach

   • Just before finishing, stir in the fresh spinach and cook for another 2-3 minutes, until wilted. The spinach will brighten up the soup and add a fresh note.

5. Season To Taste

   • Taste your soup and season with salt and pepper as needed. This is where you can adjust the seasoning to suit your personal preferences.

6. Serve And Garnish

   • Ladle the soup into bowls. Top with freshly chopped parsley and a generous sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese for an added richness and flavor boost.

Ingredient Insights

The beauty of Carrabba’s Sicilian Chicken Soup lies in its simple yet impactful ingredients. Here’s a deeper look at some of the key components:

• Rotisserie Chicken: Using pre-cooked rotisserie chicken not only saves you time, but it also adds a rich, smoky flavor that you wouldn’t get from freshly cooked chicken. Plus, it keeps the soup tender and juicy.
• Orzo Pasta: Orzo is a small, rice-shaped pasta that cooks quickly and holds up well in soups. It adds a nice bite without overwhelming the broth, creating a satisfying, cozy texture.
• Fresh Spinach: Spinach is a nutrient-dense green that wilts beautifully into soups, adding color and a mild, earthy flavor. It balances out the richness of the broth and chicken.
• Chicken Broth: Opting for a high-quality chicken broth makes a world of difference. It’s the base of your soup, so choosing a rich, flavorful stock will elevate your entire dish.

Expert Tips

If you want to take your Sicilian Chicken Soup to the next level, here are a few expert tips:

• Use Homemade Broth: While store-bought chicken broth is convenient, if you have the time, making your own homemade broth can add a depth of flavor that store-bought simply can’t match. It’s an extra effort, but it’s worth it.
• Customize Your Greens: Spinach isn’t your only option here! Feel free to swap it out for kale, arugula, or even Swiss chard for a different flavor profile. Just be mindful that these greens may need slightly different cooking times.
• Don’t Overcook the Orzo: Orzo can turn mushy if overcooked. Be sure to keep an eye on it while it simmers, and taste frequently so it stays al dente.
• Boost the Flavor with Fresh Herbs: Fresh basil, thyme, or even a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes can add a little extra depth to the soup, making it even more irresistible.
• Make It Ahead of Time: Like many soups, this one only gets better after sitting for a few hours or even overnight. Make it in advance, and reheat it for a more developed flavor the next day.

Recipe Variations

While this soup is perfect as is, there are plenty of ways you can make it your own:

• Add More Vegetables: Want to pack in more veggies? Try adding zucchini, bell peppers, or peas to the mix. These will bring even more freshness to the soup.
• Spicy Twist: For a bit of heat, stir in some red pepper flakes or add a diced jalapeño when sautéing the veggies. You can also top with a drizzle of spicy olive oil.
• Creamy Version: For a creamier texture, stir in a few tablespoons of heavy cream or coconut milk toward the end of cooking. This will give the broth a smooth, velvety finish.
• Pasta Alternatives: If you’re not a fan of orzo, feel free to use any small pasta like ditalini, small shells, or even elbow macaroni.

Final Words

Carrabba’s Sicilian Chicken Soup is more than just a comforting dish-it’s an experience. From the moment you start sautéing the vegetables to the last spoonful of flavorful broth, it’s the kind of recipe that makes you feel right at home. It’s versatile, easy to make, and can easily be tailored to suit your own tastes or dietary needs.

Whether you’re hosting a cozy dinner, feeding a family, or meal prepping for the week, this soup is a crowd-pleaser. The best part? It’s as satisfying as it is delicious, and you can’t go wrong with those tender chunks of chicken and the flavorful broth.