Sicilian Chicken Soup
Origin and Region:
Sicilian Chicken Soup is inspired by the flavors of Sicilian cuisine, which originates from the Italian island of Sicily. Known for its rich culinary heritage influenced by various cultures, including Italian, Greek, Arab, and Spanish, Sicilian cuisine is characterized by its use of fresh, seasonal ingredients and bold, Mediterranean flavors. While traditional Sicilian cuisine includes dishes like arancini (rice balls), caponata (eggplant stew), and pasta alla Norma (pasta with eggplant and tomatoes), Sicilian Chicken Soup combines these flavors with the comforting warmth of a hearty soup.
Introduction:
Sicilian Chicken Soup is a comforting and flavorful soup that brings together the vibrant flavors of Sicilian cuisine in a cozy and satisfying dish. This soup is filled with tender chicken, hearty vegetables, fragrant herbs, and a touch of citrus, creating a bowl of warmth that’s perfect for chilly days or whenever you’re craving a taste of Sicily. With its combination of savory and tangy flavors, Sicilian Chicken Soup is sure to become a new favorite in your soup rotation.
![](https://familyfreshrecipes.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/Screenshot_282.jpg)
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
- 1 can (14 ounces) diced tomatoes
- 1/2 cup small pasta (such as ditalini or small shells)
- Zest and juice of 1 lemon
- Fresh basil, chopped, for garnish (optional)
- Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Optional Toppings:
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- Chopped fresh basil or parsley
- Drizzle of extra virgin olive oil
Tips:
- For a shortcut, use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken and store-bought chicken broth to save time.
- Customize the soup by adding your favorite vegetables, such as zucchini, bell peppers, or spinach.
- Adjust the seasoning to taste, adding more or less red pepper flakes depending on your preference for heat.
- For a heartier soup, add cooked pasta or rice directly to individual serving bowls rather than to the entire pot of soup to prevent it from becoming mushy when reheating leftovers.
Instructions:
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery, and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic, dried oregano, dried thyme, dried basil, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper to the pot. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
- Pour in the chicken broth and diced tomatoes with their juices. Bring the soup to a simmer.
- Add the diced chicken breasts and pasta to the pot. Simmer gently until the chicken is cooked through and the pasta is tender, about 10-12 minutes.
- Stir in the lemon zest and juice. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
- Ladle the Sicilian Chicken Soup into bowls and garnish with chopped fresh basil and grated Parmesan cheese, if desired. Serve hot, with crusty bread on the side.
![](https://familyfreshrecipes.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/Screenshot_282.jpg)
Description:
Sicilian Chicken Soup is a comforting and flavorful dish that captures the essence of Sicilian cuisine. Filled with tender chicken, hearty vegetables, fragrant herbs, and a touch of citrus, this soup offers a taste of Sicily in every spoonful. Whether enjoyed as a cozy weeknight dinner or served to guests on special occasions, Sicilian Chicken Soup is sure to warm both body and soul.
Nutritional Information:
(Serving Size: 1 cup)
- Calories: 180 kcal
- Total Fat: 4g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
- Sodium: 750mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 20g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 5g
- Protein: 17g
(Note: Nutritional information may vary depending on specific ingredients and serving size.)