Before diving into the details of Carrabba’s Spicy Sicilian Chicken Soup, let’s consider some perfect pairings for this hearty dish.
Imagine a slice of rustic Italian bread or a warm, crusty baguette. Nothing beats dipping that bread into your soup and savoring every last drop. A fresh side salad, perhaps a simple arugula dressed with lemon vinaigrette, adds a nice contrast to the warmth of the soup.
If you want to elevate the meal, serve it with a chilled glass of Pinot Grigio or a light, crisp beer. Each sip complements the flavors perfectly and keeps the meal refreshing.
A chill in the air can swiftly transform your dinner plans. There’s something about a bowl of hot soup that nourishes the soul. Today, I want to share a personal favorite: Carrabba’s Spicy Sicilian Chicken Soup. With its vibrant layers of flavor and satiating ingredients, this soup is sure to warm you from within.
As a registered dietitian and food enthusiast, I’ve spent years testing and refining recipes to make them accessible without compromising on taste.
This soup has a special place in my heart. It’s reminiscent of cozy days spent at my favorite Italian restaurant, where the aromas swirl around, drawing you in. Trust me, after trying this recipe, you’ll want to make this soup the star of your kitchen.
What is Carrabba’s Spicy Sicilian Chicken Soup?
Carrabba’s Spicy Sicilian Chicken Soup is more than just a meal; it’s an experience. This rich broth is a combination of tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and ditalini pasta.
What truly sets it apart is the balance of flavors. Each spoonful delivers warmth and spice, embodying the essence of Southern Italian cooking right at your table.
What is the Flavor Profile of This Dish?
The flavor profile of this soup is vibrant and inviting. Imagine a clear broth accentuated by the savory taste of chicken and a blend of spices. The crushed red pepper flakes bring in a delightful kick, while the smoked paprika adds a layer of depth.
Each ingredient marries beautifully with fresh parsley and the brightness of diced tomatoes. It’s a balance of spicy and savory, with textures that dance in harmony, leaving you satisfied and eager for the next spoonful.
What Makes This Recipe Different from Other Carrabba’s Spicy Sicilian Chicken Soup?
Many versions of this soup exist, but what sets this one apart is the fresh and wholesome approach to its preparation. A homemade touch makes all the difference. The use of low-sodium chicken broth allows you to control the salt levels, leaving room for the other flavors to shine.
Additionally, the inclusion of fresh vegetables like celery, carrots, and bell peppers ensures that each bite bursts with nutrients. Often, soups can feel heavy or lack depth, but here the soup offers both substance and balance, allowing each bite to be as enjoyable as the last.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Creating this splendid soup requires a selection of fresh ingredients. Grab the following:
- 1 and ½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breast
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 4 garlic cloves (minced)
- 1 small yellow onion (finely diced)
- 3 stalks celery (sliced)
- 3 medium carrots (peeled and cut into rounds)
- 1/2 cup red bell pepper (chopped)
- 1 medium russet potato (diced into ½ inch cubes)
- 1 can fire-roasted diced tomatoes
- 1 tablespoon sea salt
- ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 tablespoon dried Italian seasoning
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley (chopped)
- 4 cups filtered water
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 and ½ cups ditalini pasta
- 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan
Step by Step Directions
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Start by gathering all your ingredients. This step is crucial! Chop the vegetables and dice the chicken into bite-sized pieces. It’s like preparing for a big game. The more organized you are, the better you’ll play.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once it shimmers, add the diced onions and minced garlic. Sauté for about 2-3 minutes, until fragrant. The aroma alone is delightful!
Step 3: Add the Vegetables
Stir in the sliced celery, carrots, and bell pepper. After a few minutes, add the diced russet potato. Cook this mixture for another 5 minutes. You want the veggies to soften just a tad, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Step 4: Incorporate the Chicken
Now it’s time to add the chicken breasts. Stir them in, ensuring they get coated in the flavorful mixture. Season it all with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, until the chicken is no longer pink.
Step 5: Add the Remaining Ingredients
Pour in the fire-roasted tomatoes along with their juices, filtered water, and low-sodium chicken broth. Add the smoked paprika and dried Italian seasoning. Bring the soup to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 20 minutes.
Step 6: Cook the Pasta
Add the ditalini pasta to the pot and continue to cook for an additional 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. The pasta should be al dente and not mushy.
Step 7: Finishing Touches
Once the pasta is cooked, stir in the freshly chopped parsley. Taste the soup and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve hot, garnished with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for that creamy finish!
Tips on Making Carrabba’s Spicy Sicilian Chicken Soup
- Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh parsley elevates the soup’s flavor. If you can, always opt for fresh over dried.
- Don’t Skimp on the Vegetables: Feel free to toss in any other veggies you love—think zucchini or spinach for an extra nutrient boost!
- Adjust the Spice: If you prefer less heat, reduce the crushed red pepper or omit it entirely. Your kitchen, your rules!
- Leftovers Make Great Meals: This soup keeps well for the next day. Make a big batch and enjoy it for lunch or dinner again.
- Serve with Bread: Pair it with a side of garlic bread. Trust me, you’ll thank me later as you scoop up the last bits of broth.
How Can I Store This Carrabba’s Spicy Sicilian Chicken Soup?
Storing this soup is easy. Once cooled, transfer it into airtight containers. It can stay in the fridge for about 3-4 days.
For longer storage, freezing is an option! Just ensure it’s cooled fully, then freeze in individual portions. You can enjoy it for up to 3 months this way. To reheat, simply pop it in the microwave or a pot on the stove until heated through.
Substitute Options for the Ingredients
Not everyone has a fully stocked pantry. Here are some substitutes for the main ingredients if you find yourself short:
- Chicken Breast: Rotisserie chicken or tofu (for a vegetarian option) can be used instead. Shred and add to the soup after you bring it to a simmer.
- Ditalini Pasta: Small shells, orzo, or rice can replace ditalini. Choose based on your preference and pantry stock.
- Fire-Roasted Diced Tomatoes: Use regular diced tomatoes along with a pinch of smoked paprika to mimic that roasted flavor.
- Low-Sodium Chicken Broth: Vegetable broth or even water with added seasoning can work if you need a vegetarian version.
Carrabba’s Spicy Sicilian Chicken Soup
Equipment
- Large pot
Ingredients
- 1 and ½ pounds boneless skinless chicken breast
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 4 garlic cloves minced
- 1 small yellow onion finely diced
- 3 stalks celery sliced
- 3 medium carrots peeled and cut into rounds
- 1/2 cup red bell pepper chopped
- 1 medium russet potato diced into ½ inch cubes
- 1 can fire-roasted diced tomatoes
- 1 tablespoon sea salt
- ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 tablespoon dried Italian seasoning
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley chopped
- 4 cups filtered water
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 and ½ cups ditalini pasta
- 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan
Instructions
- Start by gathering all your ingredients. This step is crucial! Chop the vegetables and dice the chicken into bite-sized pieces. It’s like preparing for a big game. The more organized you are, the better you’ll play.
- In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once it shimmers, add the diced onions and minced garlic. Sauté for about 2-3 minutes, until fragrant. The aroma alone is delightful!
- Stir in the sliced celery, carrots, and bell pepper. After a few minutes, add the diced russet potato. Cook this mixture for another 5 minutes. You want the veggies to soften just a tad, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- Now it’s time to add the chicken breasts. Stir them in, ensuring they get coated in the flavorful mixture. Season it all with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, until the chicken is no longer pink.
- Pour in the fire-roasted tomatoes along with their juices, filtered water, and low-sodium chicken broth. Add the smoked paprika and dried Italian seasoning. Bring the soup to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 20 minutes.
- Add the ditalini pasta to the pot and continue to cook for an additional 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. The pasta should be al dente and not mushy.
- Once the pasta is cooked, stir in the freshly chopped parsley. Taste the soup and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve hot, garnished with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for that creamy finish!
Notes
- Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh parsley elevates the soup’s flavor. If you can, always opt for fresh over dried.
- Don’t Skimp on the Vegetables: Feel free to toss in any other veggies you love—think zucchini or spinach for an extra nutrient boost!
- Adjust the Spice: If you prefer less heat, reduce the crushed red pepper or omit it entirely. Your kitchen, your rules!
- Leftovers Make Great Meals: This soup keeps well for the next day. Make a big batch and enjoy it for lunch or dinner again.
- Serve with Bread: Pair it with a side of garlic bread. Trust me, you’ll thank me later as you scoop up the last bits of broth.
Nutrition
Frequently Asked Questions
Conclusion
Carrabba’s Spicy Sicilian Chicken Soup is a delightful dish that encapsulates warmth and comfort. It brings family and friends around the table, inviting conversations and laughter.
With its balanced flavors and simple preparation, this soup is not only delicious but also a reminder of how food can create connections.
So, gather your ingredients, unleash your inner chef, and treat yourself to a soul-warming bowl of soup. Whether you’re warming up on a cold day or simply craving some comforting food, this recipe won’t let you down.
Buon Appetito!
