Sicilian Chicken Soup

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Golden, comforting, and packed with wholesome flavor, Sicilian Chicken Soup is the kind of dish that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day. This traditional Italian-inspired soup combines tender shredded chicken, soft vegetables, and hearty chickpeas all simmered in a rich, aromatic broth infused with herbs and just the right amount of zest. It’s a soul-soothing one-pot meal that satisfies your hunger while nourishing your body.

What sets this soup apart is its beautiful balance of flavors and textures. The sweetness of carrots and onions, the mild bite from garlic and celery, and the robustness of chicken come together with the earthy touch of chickpeas. Whether you’re serving it for a cozy weeknight dinner or prepping it as a nourishing make-ahead meal, this bowl of comfort is as practical as it is delicious.

Why You’ll Love This Sicilian Chicken Soup

• It’s naturally gluten-free and dairy-free, perfect for clean eating.
• Loaded with protein, fiber, and essential nutrients from whole food ingredients.
• Freezes beautifully and reheats like a charm for effortless meal prep.
• Flavorful and aromatic without being too spicy or heavy.

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Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

To bring Sicilian Chicken Soup to life, you won’t need any fancy gadgets—just reliable kitchen basics:

• Large Soup Pot or Dutch Oven: Essential for even heat distribution and enough room to build flavors.
• Sharp Chef’s Knife: Makes dicing vegetables and shredding chicken quick and efficient.
• Cutting Board: Keeps prep tidy and safe.
• Wooden Spoon or Silicone Spatula: Great for stirring without scratching your pot.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: Ensures balanced seasoning.

Each tool plays a role in making the process smooth and safe, so having them ready at the start sets you up for success.

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Preparation Tips

Start by prepping all your ingredients before turning on the stove—this mise en place approach minimizes stress and speeds up the process. Use pre-cooked shredded chicken if you’re short on time, or simmer fresh chicken breasts right in the soup for maximum flavor. Sautéing the veggies before adding broth helps release their sweetness and creates a deeper base. Be sure to simmer gently, not boil, to keep the chicken tender and the broth clear. Taste as you go and adjust seasoning at the end—a splash of lemon or a pinch more salt can transform the final flavor.

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Ingredients for this Sicilian Chicken Soup

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium yellow onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 1 teaspoon sea salt (plus more to taste)
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for mild heat)
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• 6 cups chicken broth (low-sodium preferred)
• 2 cups cooked shredded chicken (rotisserie or poached)
• 1 (15 oz) can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
• 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes with juices
• 1 bay leaf
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (plus extra for garnish)
• Juice of 1/2 lemon (optional for brightness)

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Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

In a large soup pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onions and cook for 2-3 minutes until softened. Stir in the garlic, carrots, and celery. Continue to cook for another 5-6 minutes until the vegetables begin to tenderize.

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Step 2: Season and Simmer

Sprinkle in the salt, pepper, red pepper flakes, oregano, and thyme. Stir well to coat the vegetables with the seasoning. Pour in the chicken broth and bring everything to a gentle boil.

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Step 3: Add Chicken, Tomatoes, and Chickpeas

Once the broth is bubbling, add in the shredded chicken, chickpeas, diced tomatoes (with juice), and the bay leaf. Stir everything together and reduce the heat to low. Cover and let it simmer for 20-25 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

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Step 4: Adjust and Finish

Remove the bay leaf and give the soup a taste. Adjust salt and pepper if needed. Stir in the lemon juice and chopped parsley just before serving to brighten the flavor and add a fresh herbaceous finish.

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Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with extra parsley if desired. Serve hot with a slice of crusty bread or over a small scoop of rice for an even heartier meal. Perfect for lunch or dinner, and even better the next day as the flavors deepen.

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Notes

Sicilian Chicken Soup is incredibly adaptable. You can use different types of beans like cannellini or navy beans if chickpeas aren’t your favorite. Rotisserie chicken adds convenience, but if you have time, cooking the chicken fresh in the broth enriches the flavor. Fresh herbs like basil or rosemary can be added near the end of cooking for another layer of aroma. This soup is naturally gluten-free and becomes paleo-friendly if you skip the legumes.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

• Boiling instead of simmering: Boiling can make the chicken tough and cloudy the broth. A gentle simmer keeps everything tender and clear.
• Overcrowding with too many vegetables: Stick to the recommended quantity to avoid diluting the broth’s flavor.
• Skipping the sauté step: Don’t rush the base. Cooking onions, garlic, and veggies before adding broth deepens the flavor.
• Not tasting before serving: Always adjust salt, acid (lemon juice), and herbs at the end to balance the soup.

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Storage Instructions

Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors will continue to develop, making it even tastier the next day. For longer storage, freeze the soup in individual portions for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.

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Estimated Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1.5 cups
• Calories: ~280 kcal
• Protein: 22g
• Carbohydrates: 20g
• Fiber: 5g
• Sugar: 4g
• Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Sodium: 720mg
• Cholesterol: 50mg

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?

Yes! Sauté the aromatics first, then transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.

Can I use canned chicken?

While fresh or rotisserie chicken gives better flavor, canned chicken can be used for convenience. Just drain and add during the final simmer.

Is this soup spicy?

Not inherently. The red pepper flakes are optional and can be omitted for a milder flavor.

Can I freeze this soup?

Absolutely! Let it cool completely, portion into freezer-safe containers, and freeze for up to 3 months.

What can I use instead of chickpeas?

Cannellini beans, great northern beans, or even small pasta like orzo can be used.

How can I make it vegetarian?

Swap the chicken with extra beans or lentils and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

Can I add pasta to the soup?

Yes, but add cooked pasta at the very end before serving to avoid overcooking.

What goes well with this soup?

Crusty bread, garlic toast, or a simple green salad pair beautifully with this hearty soup.

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Conclusion

Sicilian Chicken Soup is more than just a bowl of warmth—it’s a flavorful, nutritious meal that works for busy weeknights, sick days, or whenever you need something wholesome and satisfying. With simple ingredients and a straightforward method, it offers a cozy taste of southern Italy with every spoonful. This recipe will quickly become a staple in your home kitchen, thanks to its versatility and rich, comforting character.

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