Caldo de Pollo, a cherished Mexican chicken soup, represents the heart of Mexican comfort food. This soul-warming dish has been passed down through generations, offering both nourishment and healing properties. Known for its rich broth and abundance of fresh vegetables, this soup is more than just a meal—it’s a celebration of Mexican culinary tradition that brings families together around the dinner table.
Ingredients
For the Homemade Chicken Stock
- 3 pounds chicken pieces (1.4 kg), whole chicken or preferred parts
- 8-10 cups water (1.9-2.4 L)
- 1 large onion, rough chopped (250g)
- 2 celery stalks, rough chopped (120g)
- 10 garlic cloves, rough chopped (50g)
- 5 chile de arbol peppers (10g)
- 3 bay leaves
- 1 tablespoon black peppercorns (10g)
- 1 tablespoon salt (18g)
For the Soup
- 3 potatoes, bite-sized pieces (450g)
- 2 carrots, bite-sized pieces (200g)
- 2 zucchinis, bite-sized pieces (300g)
- 2 jalapeño peppers, sliced (30g)
- 2 ears of corn, quartered (400g)
- 3 medium tomatoes, bite-sized pieces (375g)
- 1/4 head cabbage, chopped (300g)
- 8 ounces tomato sauce (235ml)
- Juice from 1 lime (30ml)
For Serving
- Red pepper flakes
- Fresh cilantro, chopped
- Hot sauce
- Lime wedges
Instructions
- Prepare the Stock
- Combine chicken, water, onion, celery, garlic, chiles, bay leaves, peppercorns, and salt in a large pot
- Bring to boil, then reduce heat
- Cover and simmer for 1 hour
- Remove chicken and shred meat
- Strain stock and discard solids
- Build the Soup Base
- Return strained stock to pot
- Bring to simmer
- Add potatoes and carrots
- Cook for 20 minutes
- Add Remaining Vegetables
- Incorporate zucchini, jalapeños, corn, tomatoes, cabbage
- Add tomato sauce
- Simmer 10 minutes
- Finish the Soup
- Return shredded chicken
- Add lime juice
- Adjust seasoning
- Heat through
- Serve
- Ladle into bowls
- Garnish as desired
Nutritional Information
(Per 2-cup serving)
- Calories: 285
- Protein: 24g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 6g
- Fat: 8g
- Sodium: 890mg
Timing:
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours
- Servings: 8-10
Pro Tips and Tricks
- For the Perfect Stock:
- Use bone-in chicken for richer flavor
- Simmer don’t boil for clear broth
- Skim foam during first 15 minutes
- Consider overnight refrigeration to remove fat
- Vegetable Preparation:
- Cut vegetables uniformly for even cooking
- Add vegetables in stages based on cooking time
- Reserve delicate vegetables for last
- Flavor Enhancement:
- Toast dried chilies before adding
- Add fresh herbs at the end
- Season in layers throughout cooking
Variations and Substitutions
- Protein Options:
- Use turkey instead of chicken
- Add chickpeas for extra protein
- Include Mexican chorizo for extra flavor
- Vegetable Alternatives:
- Chayote instead of zucchini
- Sweet potatoes for regular potatoes
- Add Mexican squash
- Include fresh epazote
- Serving Suggestions:
- Serve with Mexican rice
- Add avocado chunks
- Include chicharrones
- Serve with warm tortillas
Common FAQs
Q: Can I make this in a slow cooker?
A: Yes, cook on low for 6-8 hours. Add vegetables in the last 2 hours.
Q: How can I make it less spicy?
A: Reduce or omit the chile de arbol and jalapeños. Use mild chiles instead.
Q: Can I freeze this soup?
A: Yes, freeze without the potatoes and cabbage for best results. Add fresh when reheating.
Q: Is this soup gluten-free?
A: Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free. Just ensure your tomato sauce is gluten-free.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
- Refrigeration:
- Store in airtight container for up to 5 days
- Keep vegetables slightly firm for reheating
- Refresh with lime juice when reheating
- Freezing:
- Freeze stock separately
- Store in portions for up to 3 months
- Thaw overnight in refrigerator
- Make-Ahead Strategy:
- Prepare stock day before
- Cut vegetables and store separately
- Assemble just before serving
- Add fresh garnishes last minute
This Caldo de Pollo recipe is perfect for cold weather, feeling under the weather, or anytime you crave a wholesome, satisfying meal. The combination of tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and aromatic broth makes this soup a complete meal that’s both nutritious and delicious. Whether served as a main course or starter, this traditional Mexican soup will become a favorite in your recipe collection.