Name: Slow Cooker Sicilian Chicken Soup
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: PT-488604H52M41S
Total time: PT-488604H52M41S
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs; 3 carrots, chopped; 3 celery stalks, chopped; 1 medium onion, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes; 6 cups chicken broth; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon dried basil; ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional); Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup ditalini pasta (or other small pasta); 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional for garnish); Grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for serving)

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Slow Cooker Sicilian Chicken Soup is a hearty, flavorful meal packed with tender chicken, vegetables, and bold Italian seasonings. It’s the kind of comforting bowl I love to make on a chilly day when I want something nourishing that practically cooks itself.

Slow Cooker Sicilian Chicken Soup

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I really enjoy how easy it is to bring this soup together. I just throw everything into the slow cooker, let it simmer low and slow, and end up with a robust, well-balanced soup full of texture and taste. The slow cooking allows the flavors to meld beautifully, and the leftovers taste even better the next day. It’s comforting, filling, and ideal for meal prep or family dinners.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
Carrots, chopped
Celery, chopped
Onion, diced
Garlic, minced
Diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
Chicken broth
Dried oregano
Dried basil
Crushed red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
Salt and pepper
Ditalini pasta or any small pasta
Fresh parsley (optional for garnish)
Parmesan cheese (optional, for serving)

Directions

I start by adding the chicken, carrots, celery, onion, garlic, tomatoes, chicken broth, and seasonings to the slow cooker. I like to give everything a gentle stir just to combine.

I cover and cook on low for 6–8 hours or on high for 3–4 hours, depending on my schedule. About 30 minutes before the cooking time is up, I shred the chicken directly in the pot using two forks.

Then I stir in the pasta and let it cook until tender—usually around 20 to 30 minutes on high. I keep an eye on it to avoid overcooking the pasta.

Right before serving, I taste and adjust the seasonings. I love to top it with freshly chopped parsley and a generous sprinkle of grated Parmesan.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 6 servings.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 6–8 hours on low or 3–4 hours on high
Total Time: Around 6.5 to 8.5 hours (hands-off for most of it)

Variations

Low-carb version: I skip the pasta and add extra veggies like zucchini or spinach at the end.
Spicy kick: Sometimes I add a pinch of cayenne or more red pepper flakes for extra heat.
Creamy twist: A splash of cream or a scoop of ricotta stirred in at the end gives it a creamy, rich finish.
Bean boost: I occasionally add a can of cannellini beans or chickpeas for more protein and texture.
Different pasta: If I don’t have ditalini, I use orzo, elbow macaroni, or even broken spaghetti.

storage/reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. When I reheat it, I sometimes need to add a splash of broth or water because the pasta absorbs a lot of liquid over time. To reheat, I use the microwave in short bursts or warm it on the stovetop over medium heat.

Slow Cooker Sicilian Chicken Soup

If I want to freeze it, I usually do so before adding the pasta to avoid mushiness. I just thaw it overnight in the fridge and then stir in freshly cooked pasta before serving.

FAQs

Can I use pre-cooked chicken?

Yes, I’ve done this by adding shredded rotisserie chicken during the last 30 minutes. It cuts down on cooking time and still tastes great.

What’s the best pasta to use for this soup?

I prefer ditalini for the classic Sicilian touch, but any small pasta like orzo, small shells, or elbow macaroni works well.

Can I make this soup vegetarian?

Absolutely. I swap the chicken for canned beans like cannellini or chickpeas and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

Do I need to sauté the vegetables first?

Not necessarily. I usually skip it to keep things simple, but sautéing the onions, garlic, and celery beforehand does add a little extra flavor if I have the time.

Can I cook it on the stovetop instead?

Yes, I just simmer everything in a large pot for about 45 minutes to an hour, then add the pasta and cook until tender. It’s a great alternative if I forget to start the slow cooker in the morning.

Conclusion

Slow Cooker Sicilian Chicken Soup is one of those meals I keep in my regular rotation, especially during fall and winter. It’s easy, customizable, and packed with comforting Italian flavors. Whether I’m making a big batch to feed the family or prepping lunches for the week, this soup never disappoints

Slow Cooker Sicilian Chicken Soup

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Ingredients

Directions

Servings and timing

Variations

storage/reheating