Description
Authentic Caldo de Pollo is a classic Mexican chicken soup featuring tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and fragrant herbs simmered to create a rich, comforting broth. This wholesome and nutritious soup is perfect for any day, offering a mild yet flavorful meal that warms the soul and delights the senses.
Ingredients
Scale
Protein
- 1 whole chicken or 3–4 bone-in chicken parts
Vegetables
- 3 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, whole or halved
- 3 yellow potatoes, chopped
- 2 zucchini or green squash, chopped
- 1 white onion, quartered
- 3 garlic cloves
Herbs and Seasonings
- 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
Liquids
- 8 cups chicken broth or water
Optional Garnishes and Extras
- Lime wedges, for serving
- Sliced radishes, for serving
- Optional: chopped jalapeños or pinch of cayenne for spice
- Optional: cooked white or brown rice to add
- Optional: extra vegetables like corn, green beans, or chayote
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken and Broth: Rinse the whole chicken or bone-in pieces well, then place them in a large pot with 8 cups of water or chicken broth. Bring to a gentle simmer, skimming off any foam or impurities to keep the broth clear and flavorful.
- Add Aromatics: Add quartered white onions, garlic cloves, and celery stalks to the pot to infuse the broth with rich aromas and a subtle savory base.
- Cook Vegetables: When the chicken is halfway cooked, add chopped carrots, yellow potatoes, and zucchini to the pot. These vegetables will soften while absorbing the savory flavors of the broth.
- Season and Simmer: Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Continue to simmer everything gently for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the chicken is tender and the vegetables are cooked through.
- Finish with Fresh Herbs: Turn off the heat and stir in freshly chopped cilantro just before serving to add brightness and elevate the flavor of the soup.
Notes
- Use bone-in chicken parts for a richer, more flavorful broth.
- Simmer gently on low heat to maintain a clear broth and avoid boiling.
- Add vegetables midway through cooking to retain their texture and vibrant color.
- Skim foam often to keep the broth pure and clean in appearance.
- Add fresh herbs like cilantro at the end to preserve their bright, fresh flavor.
- Optional garnishes such as lime wedges, sliced radishes, avocado, queso fresco, or crispy tortilla strips can add extra flavor and texture.
- Make ahead: soup tastes better after flavors meld overnight. Store leftovers in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
- Reheat gently on the stove, adding broth or water if needed to maintain the desired consistency.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour to 1 hour 15 minutes
- Category: Soups & Stews
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (about 1.5 cups)
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 700mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
Keywords: Caldo de Pollo, Mexican chicken soup, chicken broth soup, comforting soup, traditional Mexican recipe