If you are craving a soul-warming dish that combines the heartiness of a classic chicken soup with the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean, this Sicilian Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe will soon become your new go-to comfort food. It’s rich with tender chicken thighs, colorful vegetables, and tender ditalini pasta, all simmered in a savory broth that’s both satisfying and full of character. This recipe captures the essence of Sicilian cooking with simple ingredients that come together to create something truly special.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Sicilian Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe lies in its humble, fresh ingredients that each play a vital role. From the sweetness of the carrots and bell peppers to the earthiness of the potatoes, every component adds depth to the flavor, texture, and appearance of the soup.
- 1.5 pounds of bone in and skin on chicken thighs: These provide rich flavor and juicy meat that falls off the bone perfectly after simmering.
- 1 medium yellow onion, diced: Adds aromatic sweetness that forms the flavor base.
- 4 celery stalks, diced: Brings a subtle crunch and fresh vegetable note.
- 3 medium carrots, peeled and diced: Imparts natural sweetness and vibrant color.
- 1 red bell pepper, cored and diced: Adds a mild fruity flavor that brightens the broth.
- 1 green bell pepper, cored and diced: Provides a slight earthiness and freshness.
- 2 russet potatoes, peeled and diced: Contributes heartiness and tender texture once cooked.
- 1/2 tablespoon minced garlic: Essential for a fragrant and savory punch.
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes: Boosts acidity and enriches the broth with color.
- 2 dry bay leaves: Add a subtle herbal complexity to the soup.
- 2 teaspoons salt: Enhances all the flavors; adjust as you go.
- 1 (32 oz) chicken stock: Creates the flavorful liquid base.
- 4 cups water: Balances the broth volume perfectly.
- 3/4 dry cup ditalini pasta: Tiny tubular pasta that cooks perfectly in soup without overpowering it.
- 1/2 cup fresh Italian parsley: Adds a fresh, herby finish just before serving.
- Salt and pepper to taste (added midway): Letting you control the seasoning as the flavors deepen.
How to Make Sicilian Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe
Step 1: Prepare and Combine the Ingredients
Start by washing and prepping all your vegetables for a smooth cooking process. Add the chicken thighs, diced onion, celery, carrots, bell peppers, potatoes, minced garlic, canned tomatoes, bay leaves, salt, chicken stock, and water into a large pot. Using bone-in chicken thighs offers more flavor to your broth, and the variety of veggies brings beautiful color and texture. Remember to begin with 2 teaspoons of salt, especially if your stock or tomatoes already contain salt—this prevents the soup from becoming overly salty later.
Step 2: Simmer to Cook the Chicken
Cover your pot and bring it to a vigorous boil to get everything cooking evenly. When it reaches a rapid boil, reduce the heat to maintain a gentle simmer with the lid partially on. Let it cook for 30 minutes or until your chicken is fully cooked and tender. This simmer allows the flavors to meld beautifully, creating a rich and comforting base that defines the Sicilian Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe.
Step 3: Remove Chicken and Add Pasta
Once the chicken is cooked, carefully remove the thighs from the pot and set them aside to cool slightly. This step prevents the pasta from overcooking and breaking down. Stir in the ditalini pasta to the simmering broth, cover the pot again, and cook for 13 to 15 minutes until the pasta is tender yet firm. This addition gives the soup substance and makes it wonderfully filling.
Step 4: Shred the Chicken and Finish Cooking
While the pasta cooks, shred the chicken meat off the bones and discard the skin and bones. Return the shredded chicken back into the pot once the pasta is nearly done. Stir well to combine, and check the seasoning at this point, adding salt and pepper as needed. The tender chicken pieces perfectly mingle with the pasta and vegetables, making every spoonful a delicious bite.
How to Serve Sicilian Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh Italian parsley is a must to sprinkle on top just before serving, adding a burst of color and a bright, fresh flavor that lifts the entire dish. You could also add a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese to deepen the savory notes. A cracked black pepper finish enhances that rustic feel.
Side Dishes
This soup pairs beautifully with crusty bread or garlic focaccia to help soak up the flavorful broth. A simple green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette can add a refreshing contrast, making the meal balanced and satisfying. For a heartier experience, consider serving alongside warm, cheesy garlic knots.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve your Sicilian Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe in rustic bowls to highlight its homestyle nature. Garnish with a sprig of fresh herb and a lemon wedge on the side to offer a little zing. For special occasions, offer a basket of homemade breadsticks or sprinkle some red pepper flakes for those who enjoy a little heat. Presentation can turn a simple bowl of soup into a memorable experience!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Sicilian Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe keeps beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making the next day’s meal even better. Make sure to store the soup with the pasta included for the best texture retention.
Freezing
You can freeze this soup, but keep in mind that the ditalini pasta might become a bit mushy after thawing. To avoid this, freeze the soup base and chicken separately from the cooked pasta. When ready to eat, thaw the soup base and chicken, reheat, and cook fresh pasta to combine.
Reheating
Reheat the soup gently over medium heat in a pot on the stove, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even warming. If the soup becomes too thick, add a splash of water or chicken stock to bring it back to the perfect consistency. Garnish again with fresh parsley before serving for brightness.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes, but chicken thighs give the soup a richer flavor and stay tender during the long simmer. If using breasts, be careful not to overcook as they can dry out.
What can I substitute for ditalini pasta?
Any small pasta shape like elbow macaroni, small shells, or orzo will work well in this soup; just keep an eye on cooking times so the pasta doesn’t overcook.
Is this soup spicy?
No, the Sicilian Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe is generally mild and comforting. However, you can add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce if you like a little heat.
Can I make this soup vegetarian?
You can omit the chicken and substitute vegetable stock, while adding beans or extra potatoes for heartiness. The flavor profile shifts, but it still makes a delicious, warming soup.
How thick should the broth be?
The broth should be clear but rich, not too thick or creamy. The diced vegetables and tender pasta add body and texture without weighing it down.
Final Thoughts
There’s something genuinely special about making and sharing a Sicilian Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe with your loved ones. Its blend of simple ingredients and deep, comforting flavors makes it a timeless dish that warms both the body and the heart. I hope you enjoy making this soup as much as I love sharing it—it’s truly a taste of Sicilian home cooking you can make any time.
