If you’re looking for a comforting yet vibrant meal, this Authentic Sicilian Chicken Soup Recipe brings classic Mediterranean flavors straight to your kitchen. Made with tender chicken, vegetables, pasta, and a light tomato-infused broth, this soup is hearty without being heavy and simple without being boring. It’s the kind of nourishing dish that feels just as right on a cool winter evening as it does on a breezy spring night.
Rooted in Southern Italian cooking traditions, Sicilian-style soups focus on fresh ingredients, olive oil, herbs, and balance. This recipe reflects that spirit—wholesome, practical, and full of flavor—perfect for family dinners, meal prep, or sharing with loved ones.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Sicilian Chicken Soup Recipe
This soup stands out because it’s both comforting and refreshing, a rare combination that keeps it from feeling too rich or overwhelming.
- Light yet filling: Brothy base with pasta and chicken
- Mediterranean-inspired: Tomato, herbs, and olive oil shine
- One-pot meal: Easy cleanup and simple steps
- Family-friendly: Mild, balanced flavors everyone can enjoy
- Budget-conscious: Uses affordable, everyday ingredients
It’s a wonderful alternative to creamy soups when you want something cozy but not heavy.
Ingredients for Sicilian Chicken Soup
Soup Base Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Broth and Protein
- 1 pound chicken breasts or thighs, diced or shredded
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 bay leaf
Pasta and Seasoning
- ¾ cup small pasta (ditalini, small shells, or orzo)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon dried basil
- Optional: pinch of red pepper flakes
For Serving
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Fresh lemon wedges (optional)
Ingredient Notes & Substitutions
- Chicken: Thighs provide richer flavor; breasts stay lean and tender.
- Pasta: Small pasta works best. Gluten-free pasta or cooked rice can be substituted.
- Tomatoes: Diced tomatoes keep the broth light; crushed tomatoes create a slightly thicker soup.
- Herbs: Dried herbs are traditional and practical, but fresh basil or oregano can be added at the end.
- No alcohol used: Naturally family-safe and suitable for all ages.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1 – Sauté the Vegetables
Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, and celery. Cook for 5–6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables soften and the onion becomes translucent.
Add the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, just until fragrant. Season lightly with salt and pepper.
Step 2 – Build the Broth
Stir in the diced tomatoes, chicken broth, oregano, basil, bay leaf, and optional red pepper flakes. Bring the soup to a gentle boil.
Step 3 – Cook the Chicken
Add the chicken pieces to the pot. Reduce heat to a simmer and cook for 12–15 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.
Step 4 – Add the Pasta
Stir in the pasta and continue simmering for 8–10 minutes, or until the pasta is al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Step 5 – Finish and Serve
Remove the bay leaf. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Ladle into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve with a squeeze of lemon if desired.
Pro Tips for Success
- Season gradually: Tomatoes and broth can vary in saltiness.
- Cook pasta just right: Overcooked pasta can become mushy.
- Stir often after adding pasta: Prevents sticking to the bottom.
- Add lemon last: Brightens flavors without overpowering them.
- Let it rest: The soup tastes even better after sitting for 10–15 minutes.
Flavor Variations
- Vegetable-packed: Add zucchini, spinach, or green beans.
- Protein boost: Stir in white beans or chickpeas.
- Low-carb: Skip pasta and add cauliflower rice or extra vegetables.
- Herb-forward: Finish with fresh basil or parsley.
- Heartier version: Add a Parmesan rind while simmering (remove before serving).
Serving Suggestions
This Sicilian chicken soup pairs beautifully with simple sides:
- Crusty Italian bread or garlic bread
- Side salad with olive oil and vinegar
- Roasted vegetables
- Simple flatbread or focaccia
It’s filling enough to stand alone but flexible enough to anchor a full meal.
Storage and Freezing Instructions
- Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezer: Freeze without pasta for best texture, up to 3 months.
- Reheating: Warm gently on the stovetop. Add broth if pasta absorbs liquid.
Authentic Sicilian Chicken Soup Recipe
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
Description
A comforting yet vibrant Sicilian chicken soup made with tender chicken, vegetables, pasta, and a light tomato-infused broth. Rooted in Southern Italian tradition, this one-pot soup is nourishing, balanced, and perfect for family meals any time of year.
Ingredients
Soup Base Ingredients
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 medium onion, diced
2 carrots, peeled and sliced
2 celery stalks, sliced
3 cloves garlic, minced
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Broth and Protein
1 pound chicken breasts or thighs, diced or shredded
6 cups chicken broth
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
1 bay leaf
Pasta and Seasoning
¾ cup small pasta (ditalini, small shells, or orzo)
1 teaspoon dried oregano
½ teaspoon dried basil
Optional: pinch of red pepper flakes
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add the onion, carrots, and celery and cook until softened.
- Add the garlic and cook briefly until fragrant.
- Season lightly with salt and pepper.
- Stir in the diced tomatoes, chicken broth, oregano, basil, bay leaf, and red pepper flakes if using.
- Bring to a gentle boil.
- Add the chicken to the pot.
- Reduce heat and simmer until the chicken is cooked through.
- Stir in the pasta.
- Continue simmering until the pasta is al dente.
- Remove the bay leaf.
- Taste and adjust seasoning.
- Serve hot garnished with fresh parsley and lemon if desired.
Notes
Cook pasta just until al dente to avoid mushy texture. For make-ahead meals, cook pasta separately and add when reheating. Lemon added at the end brightens the flavors.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~320 |
| Protein | ~26g |
| Carbohydrates | ~28g |
| Fat | ~10g |
| Fiber | ~4g |
| Sodium | ~680mg |
Nutrition values are estimates and vary based on ingredients used.
FAQ About Sicilian Chicken Soup
What makes Sicilian chicken soup different?
Sicilian chicken soup is lighter and more tomato-forward than creamy chicken soups. It emphasizes olive oil, herbs, and balance rather than richness.
Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes. The flavors develop beautifully overnight. If possible, cook pasta separately and add when reheating.
Is this soup spicy?
Not by default. Red pepper flakes are optional and can be adjusted or omitted.
Can I use rotisserie chicken?
Absolutely. Add cooked chicken during the last 5–10 minutes to prevent overcooking.
Is this soup good year-round?
Yes. It’s warm and comforting in winter but light enough for spring and fall.
Final Thoughts
This Authentic Sicilian Chicken Soup Recipe is proof that simple ingredients can create incredible flavor. With its bright broth, tender chicken, and comforting pasta, it’s a recipe you’ll return to whenever you need something nourishing, easy, and deeply satisfying. Whether you’re cooking for family or just yourself, this soup delivers warmth and tradition in every spoonful.