Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAs the breeze carries a hint of winter’s chill, I often find myself craving the warm, hearty embrace of a comforting soup. Enter my Gluten-Free Sicilian Chicken Soup, a dish that effortlessly combines tender chicken and vibrant vegetables in a savory broth. Not only is this recipe a breeze to make, but it also promises to become a beloved staple for family dinners. With its nourishing ingredients and flavors, it’s the perfect remedy to chase away those fast-food cravings. Plus, you can easily customize it by adding your favorite herbs or extra veggies! Ready to fill your kitchen with a delightful aroma? Let’s jump into this delightful bow of Sicilian comfort. Why is Sicilian Chicken Soup so comforting? Heartwarming aroma: As it simmers, the blend of spices and fresh vegetables creates an inviting scent that fills your home. Customizable goodness: This soup welcomes personal touches—add in your favorite herbs or extra vegetables to make it uniquely yours. Family-approved flavors: Its rich taste is a guaranteed hit, perfect for satisfying those home-cooked cravings you’ve been having. Quick prep option: Using a rotisserie chicken can cut down your cooking time dramatically. If you like, try pairing it with a side of French Chicken Mushroom Pie for a delightful meal! Leftover magic: Enjoy the comfort again—this soup stores well and tastes even better the next day. Plus, it’s gluten-free, making it a wholesome choice for everyone! Ingredients for Sicilian Chicken Soup • For the Soup Base Whole Chicken (3 lbs) – Choose whole for richer flavor and texture; rotisserie chicken is a great quick-prep alternative. Salt (1 tbsp) – Essential for flavor; adjust to personal taste. Pepper (1/2 tsp) – Adds mild heat; use less or omit for a milder soup. Onion Powder (1 tsp) – Enhances depth of flavor. Garlic Powder (1 tsp) – Provides aromatic flavor; fresh garlic can offer a more intense taste. Oregano (2 tsp) – Adds earthy notes; fresh oregano brings a vibrant flavor. • For the Vegetables Diced Yellow Onion (1.5 cups) – Acts as an aromatic base with a touch of sweetness. Diced Celery (1.5 cups) – Adds crunch and balances flavors. Diced Carrots (1.5 cups) – Contributes sweetness and color to the soup. Red Bell Pepper (1) – Brings sweetness and vibrant color. Diced Russet Potatoes (2 medium) – Thickens the soup; any baking potato works. Canned Diced Tomatoes (14.5 oz) – Adds acidity and depth to the flavor profile. Fresh Flat-Leaf Italian Parsley (1/4 cup) – Provides fresh herb flavor and enhances presentation. Minced Garlic (5 cloves) – Delivers robust flavor; adjust for your taste preference. • For the Broth Chicken Broth (4-6 cups) – Serves as the soup’s flavorful base; homogenized or homemade both work well. Chicken Bouillon (1 tbsp) – Intensifies the chicken flavor within the soup. Water (4 cups) – Used to achieve your desired soup consistency. • For Added Heartiness (optional) Ditalini Pasta (1/2 lb) – Adds heartiness to the dish; omit for a gluten-free option or substitute with gluten-free pasta. This beautiful Sicilian Chicken Soup will warm your heart and satisfy your cravings, making it the perfect dish for any family meal! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Sicilian Chicken Soup Step 1: Prepare the Seasonings In a small bowl, combine the salt, pepper, onion powder, garlic powder, and oregano. This flavorful blend will enhance your Sicilian Chicken Soup. Set aside the seasonings for later use, ensuring you have all your ingredients within arm’s reach for a smooth cooking process. Step 2: Season the Chicken Pat the whole chicken dry with paper towels, ensuring it’s free of moisture for better browning. Rub the prepared seasoning mix all over the chicken, covering it evenly. Place the seasoned chicken into a large pot or Dutch oven, which will be your soup’s cozy home. Step 3: Add the Vegetables Now, it’s time to bring the Sicilian Chicken Soup to life! Add the diced celery, diced yellow onion, diced carrots, minced garlic, diced potatoes, and chopped red bell pepper to the pot. Pour in the canned diced tomatoes, followed by the fresh parsley, chicken bouillon, and enough water to cover everything by about an inch. Step 4: Begin Cooking Heat the pot over medium-high heat until the mixture comes to a gentle boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium-low, allowing it to simmer uncovered for about 2 hours. You’ll know it’s ready when the chicken reaches the desired tenderness, and the fragrant aroma fills your kitchen. Step 5: Shred the Chicken After the 2-hour simmer, carefully remove the chicken from the pot and let it cool for about 15–20 minutes. Once cool enough to handle, discard the skin and bones, and shred the meat into bite-sized pieces. Return the shredded chicken back to the simmering Sicilian Chicken Soup for added richness. Step 6: Thicken the Soup To achieve a heartier texture in your soup, take a potato masher and gently mash a few of the cooked potatoes right in the pot. This not only thickens the broth but also enhances the comfort vibe of your Sicilian Chicken Soup. Stir well to combine, creating a creamy, flavorful base. Step 7: Serve and Enjoy If you wish to add ditalini pasta, stir it into the soup at this stage, cooking for an additional 10 minutes until al dente. Alternatively, serve the Sicilian Chicken Soup hot with noodles on the side for those who prefer it that way. Garnish with fresh parsley and enjoy a warm, comforting bowl! How to Store and Freeze Sicilian Chicken Soup Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Always let the soup cool before sealing to prevent condensation. Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the soup in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Leave some space at the top, as the soup will expand when frozen. Reheating: Thaw overnight in the refrigerator. Reheat on the stove over low heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally. If it’s too thick, add a little water or broth. What to Serve with Sicilian Chicken Soup? Warm up with a comforting meal that will delight your family and friends. Crusty Bread: The perfect vessel to soak up the savory broth, adding texture and heartiness to your meal. Mixed Green Salad: A refreshing, crisp salad with citrus vinaigrette brightens the meal and adds a vibrant contrast to the rich soup. Garlic Breadsticks: Soft, buttery sticks flavored with fragrant garlic enhance the cozy experience and make every bite memorable. Parmesan Crisps: Crunchy, cheesy bites offer an irresistible salty crunch that pairs delightfully with the soup’s comforting warmth. Steamed Green Beans: A side of tender green beans adds a lovely pop of color and further balances the meal’s flavors. Herbed Rice: Fluffy, fragrant rice infused with herbs complements the soup beautifully, absorbing its rich flavors. Chilled White Wine: A glass of chilled Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc elevates dinner with crisp freshness, enhancing the flavors of the soup. Lemon Sorbet: A light, zesty sorbet serves as a refreshing palate cleanser, leaving everyone feeling satisfied yet not weighed down. Sicilian Chicken Soup Variations Feel free to get creative with this delightful Sicilian Chicken Soup and make it your own! Gluten-Free: Omit ditalini pasta or substitute with gluten-free pasta for a comforting meal everyone can enjoy. Extra Protein: Add white beans to the soup for a hearty boost of protein and texture that blends perfectly with the rich flavors. Turkey Twist: Swap chicken for turkey, making it a fantastic option for those post-holiday leftovers. It’s a delightful way to keep the comfort going! Herb Variations: Experiment with fresh herbs like thyme or basil to create unique flavor profiles that tantalize the taste buds. Heat Up: For a spicy kick, include diced jalapeños or a few dashes of red pepper flakes to ignite warmth in each bite. Flavor-Rich Broth: Consider using homemade chicken broth for a deeper, more robust flavor that elevates your soup to another level of deliciousness. Vegetable Boost: Feel free to add extra greens like kale or spinach; they’ll not only enhance nutrition but also provide a lovely pop of color. Creamy Finish: Mix in a splash of cream or coconut milk at the end for a luxurious, velvety texture that pairs beautifully with the flavors of the soup. Looking for more inspiration? Check out my recipes for Thai Chicken Salad or Fried Chicken Street Corn Tacos for fresh ideas that brighten up your weeknight meals! Expert Tips for Sicilian Chicken Soup Season to Taste: Always adjust the seasoning according to your preference, especially the pepper, to ensure a comforting flavor. Thicker Soup: For a heartier texture, mash more potatoes or add additional vegetables. It elevates the Sicilian Chicken Soup experience! Covering Ingredients: Ensure your water covers the ingredients sufficiently for even cooking; this prevents any undercooked vegetables. Versatile Additions: Feel free to experiment with different herbs, such as thyme or basil, to customize the flavor profile to your liking. Storing Leftovers: Leftover soup can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days or frozen for longer enjoyment. Make Ahead Options This Gluten-Free Sicilian Chicken Soup is a fantastic recipe for meal prep lovers! You can chop all the vegetables (celery, carrots, onion, bell pepper, and potatoes) up to 24 hours in advance and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. Additionally, you can season and rub the whole chicken with spices a day prior, sealing it tightly for maximum flavor absorption. When it’s time to cook, combine everything in your pot with the chicken broth, water, and canned tomatoes, and simmer as instructed. This approach not only saves time on busy nights but also ensures your soup is just as delicious and comforting! Sicilian Chicken Soup Recipe FAQs What type of chicken should I use for Sicilian Chicken Soup? I recommend using a whole chicken for richer flavor and texture. If you’re short on time, a rotisserie chicken is a fantastic alternative that will significantly cut down your prep time. How should I store leftovers of Sicilian Chicken Soup? Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure to let the soup cool completely before sealing to prevent condensation from ruining its flavor and texture. Can I freeze Sicilian Chicken Soup? Absolutely! For longer storage, you can freeze the soup in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Be sure to leave some space at the top of the container, as the soup will expand when frozen. What should I do if my Sicilian Chicken Soup is too thin? To thicken your soup, simply mash a few of the cooked potatoes it contains with a potato masher right in the pot. Stir well, and this will not only thicken the broth but also enhance the overall comfort experience of your soup. Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of? This soup is gluten-free if you omit the ditalini pasta or substitute it with gluten-free pasta. Always check ingredient labels, especially for chicken broth and bouillon, to ensure they meet any dietary restrictions. How can I adjust the seasoning for my Sicilian Chicken Soup? Personal taste varies greatly, so I suggest you start with the recommended spices and adjust as you go along. For instance, if you prefer less heat, you can reduce the amount of pepper. Always taste as you cook for the perfect balance! Savor the Comfort of Homemade Sicilian Chicken Soup Discover the warm, hearty embrace of Sicilian Chicken Soup, a gluten-free recipe filled with tender chicken and vibrant vegetables. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 15 minutes minsCook Time 2 hours hrsCooling Time 20 minutes minsTotal Time 2 hours hrs 35 minutes mins Servings: 6 servingsCourse: ChickenCuisine: ItalianCalories: 350 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Soup Base3 lbs Whole Chicken Choose whole for richer flavor; rotisserie chicken is a great quick-prep alternative.1 tbsp Salt Essential for flavor; adjust to personal taste.1/2 tsp Pepper Adds mild heat; use less or omit for a milder soup.1 tsp Onion Powder Enhances depth of flavor.1 tsp Garlic Powder Provides aromatic flavor; fresh garlic can offer a more intense taste.2 tsp Oregano Adds earthy notes; fresh oregano brings a vibrant flavor.For the Vegetables1.5 cups Diced Yellow Onion Acts as an aromatic base with a touch of sweetness.1.5 cups Diced Celery Adds crunch and balances flavors.1.5 cups Diced Carrots Contributes sweetness and color to the soup.1 Red Bell Pepper Brings sweetness and vibrant color.2 medium Diced Russet Potatoes Thickens the soup; any baking potato works.14.5 oz Canned Diced Tomatoes Adds acidity and depth to the flavor profile.1/4 cup Fresh Flat-Leaf Italian Parsley Provides fresh herb flavor and enhances presentation.5 cloves Minced Garlic Delivers robust flavor; adjust for your taste preference.For the Broth4-6 cups Chicken Broth Serves as the soup’s flavorful base; homogenized or homemade both work well.1 tbsp Chicken Bouillon Intensifies the chicken flavor within the soup.4 cups Water Used to achieve your desired soup consistency.For Added Heartiness (optional)1/2 lb Ditalini Pasta Adds heartiness to the dish; omit for a gluten-free option or substitute with gluten-free pasta. Equipment Large pot or Dutch ovenSmall Bowl Method Step‑by‑Step InstructionsIn a small bowl, combine the salt, pepper, onion powder, garlic powder, and oregano. Set aside the seasonings for later use.Pat the whole chicken dry with paper towels. Rub the prepared seasoning mix all over the chicken, covering it evenly. Place the seasoned chicken into a large pot or Dutch oven.Add the diced celery, diced yellow onion, diced carrots, minced garlic, diced potatoes, and chopped red bell pepper to the pot. Pour in the canned diced tomatoes, followed by the fresh parsley, chicken bouillon, and enough water to cover everything by about an inch.Heat the pot over medium-high heat until the mixture comes to a gentle boil. Reduce the heat to medium-low, allowing it to simmer uncovered for about 2 hours.After the 2-hour simmer, carefully remove the chicken from the pot and let it cool for about 15–20 minutes. Once cool enough, discard the skin and bones, and shred the meat into bite-sized pieces. Return the shredded chicken back to the soup.To thicken the soup, gently mash a few of the cooked potatoes right in the pot, stirring well to combine.If using ditalini pasta, stir it into the soup and cook for an additional 10 minutes until al dente. Alternatively, serve the soup hot with noodles on the side for those who prefer it that way. Nutrition Serving: 1bowlCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 32gProtein: 25gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 4gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 900mgPotassium: 750mgFiber: 5gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 2000IUVitamin C: 20mgCalcium: 50mgIron: 2mg NotesSeason to taste and store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the fridge or freeze for longer enjoyment. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
