The love for chicken is one that’s shared globally, understandably because chicken makes for a great delectable meal. Its taste is unmatched and because of this global appreciation for chicken, different people have come up with different variations of chicken dishes and their soups. One of them is the Sicilian chicken soup. This one has its origin in Italy. If it’s Italian, you know you’re in for something that will have you wanting more.
That said, you don’t have to head out to an Italian restaurant or even to the country itself to try this delicious Sicilian chicken soup because, with a few readily available ingredients, you can make it by yourself. The following is an easy-to-follow recipe for Sicilian chicken soup:
INGREDIENTS :
- 3-4 lbs. boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 1 large yellow onion, diced finely
- 4 stalks celery, diced finely
- 2 medium carrots, diced finely
- 2 red bell peppers, chopped
- 2 large white potatoes, skin removed and diced
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp. sea salt
- 1 tsp. ground black pepper
- 8 oz. ditalini pasta
INSTRUCTIONS :
- Combine chicken breasts, vegetables, diced tomatoes, about 8 cups of water (or just enough to cover everything by about an inch), chopped parsley, garlic, salt, and pepper in a slow cooker.
- Cover and cook on LOW for 4-6 hours, until chicken is fully cooked.
- Remove chicken breasts from the slow cooker and shred.
- Gently mash the vegetables in the soup about 3-4 times.
- Prepare ditalini pasta according to package instructions and drain.
- Add shredded chicken and cooked pasta to the slow cooker and stir.
- ENJOY!
Chicken soup has long been considered healthy for you. It comes with numerous benefits that would explain why it comes highly recommended. Aside from the fact that chicken is generally better than red meat, Sicilian chicken soup will grant you the following health benefits:
Promotes Healthy Digestion
The Sicilian chicken soup just like most other chicken soup varieties will help in restoring your gut health which promotes the overall health of your body. Your gut lining is an essential barrier that keeps any unwanted possible harm from your system. Sometimes, thanks to the different foods we like to eat that may be tasty but not healthy, we end up introducing several toxins into our system. These toxins affect the gut which leads to several digestive issues. However, having some Sicilian chicken soup prevents such damage and even improves your digestion. It also cures constipation and chronic diarrhea.
It boosts your immunity
Chicken soup is packed with vitamins A and C, phosphorous, gelatin, magnesium, and antioxidants which are known to strengthen your immune system. These antioxidants also fight viruses. Since chicken is also rich in proteins, you will also get amino acids that are responsible for building antibodies that fight infections.
It helps prevent dehydration
This Sicilian chicken soup dish also helps in preventing dehydration. The liquid is especially helpful when you have a fever that’s making you sweat, although you are advised to supplement it with other fluids you can find that are also good for you. Chicken soup is rich in both potassium and sodium that helps in maintaining electrolyte balance particularly when you’re sweating.
It helps in improving your skin
Interesting just how much your skin could benefit from such a tasty dish but it’s another great benefit don’t you think? It’s also great for your hair and nails. This is because Sicilian chicken soup is rich in proline which is responsible for the production of collagen. Proline is also significant in building your skin and muscle tissue. . Not only does collagen keep your skin looking fresh but it also helps in faster healing of wounds.
It helps in bone repair
Sicilian chicken soup helps in bone growth and repair because it’s rich in good minerals. It’s rich in phosphor, calcium, and also magnesium.
If these aren’t enough to make you want a taste or a whole meal of the delicious Sicilian chicken soup then what will? Also, be sure to use the rest of the ingredients fresh so that your soup tastes even better.