A hearty and flavorful Sicilian chicken soup loaded with tender chicken thighs, fresh vegetables, and a rich tomato herb broth. One pot, high protein, and ready in 45 minutes.
1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
1 large onion, chopped
2 carrots, diced
2 celery stalks, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
4 cups chicken broth
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried basil
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
1 cup fresh spinach
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh basil or parsley, for garnish
Instructions
Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add chicken pieces in a single layer and cook until browned on all sides, about 3 to 4 minutes per side. Remove and set aside on a plate.
Add onion, carrots, and celery to the same pot. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until softened and lightly golden, about 5 to 7 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Do not let the garlic burn.
Return chicken to the pot. Add crushed tomatoes, chicken broth, oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes if using. Season with salt and pepper. Stir well and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot.
Bring to a full boil, then reduce heat to low. Simmer uncovered for 20 to 25 minutes until chicken is cooked through and vegetables are tender. If broth is too thick, add up to 1/2 cup additional chicken broth.
Stir in fresh spinach and cook for 1 to 2 minutes until just wilted. Do not overcook.
Remove from heat and stir in grated Parmesan cheese until fully melted into the broth.
Ladle into bowls and garnish with fresh basil or parsley. Serve immediately.
Notes
For richer flavor, use bone-in skin-on chicken thighs and remove skin and bones before serving.
Add zucchini or bell peppers for extra vegetables. If the soup is too thick, stir in additional chicken broth until you reach your preferred consistency.
Use a good quality low-sodium chicken broth for the best flavor. Do not skip the Parmesan – it adds essential salty, nutty depth to the finished broth.