If there’s one thing that can bring comfort to a chilly day or add some heartwarming goodness to any meal, it’s a bowl of chicken soup. But not just any chicken soup-Chicken Sicilian Soup. This recipe takes the traditional idea of a comforting chicken soup and adds a flavorful Mediterranean twist. Imagine tender chicken simmered in a rich broth infused with herbs, vegetables, and a touch of Italian zest.
This soup brings together the best of Sicilian flavors-tangy tomatoes, aromatic garlic, and hearty greens-creating a rich, delicious, and satisfying dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re making it for dinner, meal prep, or just want something to enjoy on a cozy evening, this soup is a winner.
Let’s dive into this easy-to-follow recipe that’s packed with vibrant flavors and a wholesome, savory profile that will make your taste buds dance.
Chicken Sicilian Soup Recipe
Here’s the ultimate Chicken Sicilian Soup recipe, designed to bring the flavors of Sicily right to your kitchen. It’s hearty, healthy, and just the right balance of flavors to make you crave a second bowl.
Serves: 4-6
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Ingredients Needed
For this Chicken Sicilian Soup, you’ll need the following ingredients to create a wonderfully flavorful and comforting bowl of goodness:
- Chicken breast or thighs – 2 medium-sized pieces (skinless, boneless)
- Olive oil – 2 tablespoons (for sautéing)
- Garlic – 4 cloves (minced)
- Yellow onion – 1 medium (diced)
- Carrots – 2 medium (peeled and sliced)
- Celery stalks – 2 (diced)
- Tomatoes – 2 medium (diced, or you can use canned diced tomatoes for convenience)
- Spinach or kale – 2 cups (fresh and chopped, adds a nice green, slightly earthy flavor)
- Chicken broth – 6 cups (preferably low-sodium for more control over salt content)
- Lemon juice – 2 tablespoons (for that zesty Sicilian kick)
- Dried oregano – 1 teaspoon (you can use fresh for more depth, if preferred)
- Dried basil – 1 teaspoon
- Red pepper flakes – ½ teaspoon (optional for a bit of heat)
- Salt and pepper – to taste
- Parmesan cheese – Freshly grated for garnish (optional, but highly recommended for that added umami kick)
Cooking Instructions
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Prep The Chicken
- Begin by cutting the chicken into bite-sized pieces. You can use either chicken breasts or thighs depending on your preference. Thighs add a richer, juicier texture, but breasts work just as well for a leaner option.
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Sauté The Aromatics
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onions and sauté until soft and translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic, carrots, and celery. Continue cooking, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables begin to soften, around 5 minutes.
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Cook The Chicken
- Push the veggies to the side of the pot and add the chicken pieces. Brown them on all sides for about 4-5 minutes. This will help lock in the flavor before the soup broth is added.
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Add Broth And Tomatoes
- Pour in the chicken broth and diced tomatoes. Stir everything together, making sure to scrape up any brown bits from the bottom of the pot to incorporate them into the soup (this adds flavor).
- Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
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Add The Greens And Seasonings
- Add the spinach or kale to the pot, along with the oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Stir well and let it simmer for another 5 minutes, until the greens are wilted and tender.
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Finish With Lemon Juice
- Just before serving, add the lemon juice. This will brighten the flavors and give the soup a fresh, vibrant finish.
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Serve
- Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with freshly grated Parmesan cheese. You can also sprinkle a little extra oregano or red pepper flakes on top for added flavor and heat.
Ingredient Insights
- Chicken: Chicken breast is lean and cooks quickly, but chicken thighs have more flavor due to their higher fat content. Using a mix of both can give you the best of both worlds.
- Spinach or Kale: These leafy greens not only add a nutritional punch but also contribute to the soup’s color and texture. Spinach is milder in flavor, while kale has a more robust, earthy taste.
- Lemon Juice: This is a signature Sicilian ingredient. It adds a refreshing tanginess that cuts through the richness of the broth and brings balance to the flavors.
- Tomatoes: Fresh tomatoes provide a juicy, slightly sweet base. If you’re using canned, go for high-quality diced tomatoes, and if you like a more intense tomato flavor, you can use tomato paste as well.
- Olive Oil: Always opt for extra virgin olive oil for cooking. Its smooth texture and distinct flavor infuse the soup with a Mediterranean touch.
Expert Tips
- Control the Broth’s Intensity: If you want a richer flavor, consider adding a small spoonful of tomato paste when you add the diced tomatoes. It intensifies the tomato flavor without overwhelming the soup.
- Make It Ahead: This soup stores well in the fridge for up to 4 days, and like most soups, it actually tastes better the next day as the flavors meld together.
- Texture Preferences: If you prefer a smoother soup, blend half of it with an immersion blender and return it to the pot. This adds a creamy texture without needing any dairy.
- Use Homemade Broth: If you have time, making your own chicken broth adds a depth of flavor that store-bought just can’t match. Simmer bones with veggies and herbs for a few hours, and you’ll be rewarded with a rich, homemade broth.
- Herb Variations: Don’t limit yourself to just oregano and basil. Thyme, rosemary, and parsley also pair wonderfully with chicken and vegetables in this soup.
Recipe Variations
- Vegetarian Option: Skip the chicken entirely and replace it with hearty vegetables like zucchini, potatoes, or mushrooms. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a rich, meat-free version.
- Add Beans or Pasta: For more substance, you can toss in a cup of white beans (cannellini or navy beans) or small pasta shapes like orzo or ditalini. Just add them during the last 10 minutes of cooking to avoid overcooking.
- Spicy Twist: If you like heat, increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a chopped jalapeño to the pot along with the onions and garlic. You can also use a bit of hot Italian sausage to spice things up.
Final Words
Chicken Sicilian Soup is the kind of dish that feels like a warm hug in a bowl. It’s hearty, full of fresh ingredients, and carries the comforting taste of the Mediterranean right into your home. The layers of flavor-from the garlic and onions to the tangy lemon and savory herbs-are perfectly balanced in every spoonful. Whether you’re serving it to family, friends, or just enjoying it by yourself, it’s bound to be a crowd-pleaser.