Description
Caldo de Pollo is a traditional Mexican chicken soup made with bone-in chicken, vegetables, and aromatic herbs. This comforting dish is perfect for chilly days or when you’re feeling under the weather. It’s hearty, nourishing, and full of flavor, often served with rice, tortillas, and lime wedges
Ingredients
- 1 whole chicken (cut into pieces) or 6 bone-in chicken thighs
- 10 cups water
- 2 teaspoons salt (or to taste)
- 1 onion, halved
- 3 garlic cloves
- 3 carrots, peeled and sliced
- 3 celery stalks, sliced
- 3 large potatoes, peeled and quartered
- 1 zucchini, sliced
- 2 ears of corn, cut into chunks
- 1 cup green beans, trimmed
- 1 bunch fresh cilantro (tied together with kitchen twine)
- 1 tablespoon chicken bouillon (optional)
- Lime wedges for serving
- Warm corn tortillas for serving
Instructions
Prepare the Broth:
Place the chicken, water, salt, onion, and garlic in a large pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Skim off any foam that rises to the surface. Simmer for 30 minutes.Add Vegetables:
Add the carrots, celery, and potatoes to the pot. Continue to simmer for another 15–20 minutes, or until the vegetables begin to soften.Add Remaining Vegetables:
Add the zucchini, corn, green beans, and cilantro bundle. Cook for an additional 10–15 minutes, or until all vegetables are tender and the chicken is cooked through.Season the Broth:
Taste the broth and adjust seasoning with salt or chicken bouillon if needed. Remove the cilantro bundle before serving.Serve:
Ladle the caldo into bowls, ensuring each serving has a mix of chicken and vegetables. Serve with lime wedges and warm tortillas on the side.
Notes
- Variations: Add rice or chickpeas for extra texture and flavor.
- Garnishes: Fresh avocado slices, chopped onion, and diced jalapeño can enhance the flavor.
- Make-Ahead Tip: The broth can be made a day in advance for a deeper flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Category: Lunch
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 6 servings
- Calories: 300
- Fat: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Protein: 25g
Keywords: caldo de pollo recipe