Cuban Chicken Soup, or Sopa de Pollo Cubana, is like a warm hug on a chilly day. Imagine rich flavors swirling together in a pot, creating a delightful aroma that wafts through your kitchen, making even the grumpiest of cats perk up and pay attention. The tender chicken mingles with vibrant vegetables, while spices dance around like they’re at the salsa club. You just know this dish is going to be incredible.
Picture this: a bustling family dinner where laughter fills the air, and everyone eagerly awaits their bowl of this delectable soup. Memories flood back of shared moments around the table, each spoonful telling a story of comfort and joy. Whether it’s a rainy afternoon or a festive gathering, Cuban Chicken Soup brings everyone closer together with its heartwarming essence.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This hearty Cuban Chicken Soup is incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights
- Its flavor profile is rich and aromatic, sure to impress any palate
- The vibrant colors of the ingredients create an eye-catching presentation that enhances any meal
- Versatile enough for any occasion, it’s perfect as a cozy dinner or for entertaining guests
I remember the first time I made Cuban Chicken Soup; my friends devoured every last drop and begged for seconds. Their smiles were priceless!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: About 3-4 chicken breasts work great; adjust based on how many you’re feeding.
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Fresh Garlic: Use firm garlic cloves for maximum flavor – fresh is always best!
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Onions: Sweet onions bring out the best flavors; chop them finely for an even cook.
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Carrots: Sliced into rounds, they add sweetness and color to your soup.
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Bell Peppers: A mix of red and green peppers provides vibrant color and added crunch.
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Cilantro: Fresh cilantro adds brightness; chop it finely before adding it to your soup.
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Chicken Broth: Low-sodium broth keeps your soup flavorful without overwhelming saltiness.
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Cumin and Oregano: These spices are essential for authentic Cuban flavor; don’t skip them!
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Lime Juice: A splash of lime juice brightens everything up – trust me on this one!
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Salt and Pepper: Season to taste – every chef knows this important step!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make It Together
Sautéing Aromatics: Start by heating a large pot over medium heat and add a drizzle of olive oil. Once hot, throw in chopped onions and minced garlic until fragrant—about 3 minutes will do!
Add Vegetables and Chicken: Toss in diced bell peppers and carrot slices next; let them sauté until slightly tender. Then add your chicken breasts whole into the pot—don’t worry about cutting them just yet!
Pour in Broth and Seasonings: Carefully pour low-sodium chicken broth into the pot along with cumin and oregano. Bring everything to a gentle simmer while stirring occasionally.
Simmer Away!: Cover your pot partially with a lid and allow it to simmer for about 25-30 minutes. This allows all those incredible flavors to meld beautifully.
Add Finishing Touches: Remove chicken breasts from the pot after cooking; shred them using two forks before returning them back into the soup along with lime juice and chopped cilantro.
Final Taste Test!: Give it all one last stir before tasting; adjust seasoning if needed! Serve steaming hot with crusty bread on the side for dipping—heavenly!
Now you have created a warm bowl of Cuban Chicken Soup that’s ready to comfort anyone who takes a sip! Enjoy every soothing spoonful while reminiscing about cherished moments shared around the table!
You Must Know
- This Cuban Chicken Soup, or Sopa de Pollo Cubana, is more than just a comfort dish; it’s a warm hug in a bowl
- The rich aroma fills your kitchen with nostalgia, and the vibrant colors bring joy to your dinner table
- Perfect for chilly nights or family gatherings, this soup warms hearts as well as bellies
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by sautéing the onions and garlic until fragrant, then add chicken and broth for maximum flavor. Simmer those flavors together for at least an hour to develop that authentic taste.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out chicken for turkey or add beans for extra protein. A splash of lime or cilantro can elevate flavors and give your soup a fresh twist.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in airtight containers in the fridge for up to four days. Reheat on low heat on the stove, adding a splash of water if needed to maintain moisture.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For a richer flavor, use bone-in chicken instead of boneless
- Browning the chicken first adds depth to the broth
- Don’t skip on letting it simmer; patience pays off in taste!
There’s nothing quite like the time my family gathered around the table, spooning this soup while sharing laughter and stories from our childhood. It felt like home.
FAQ
Can I use leftover chicken for Cuban Chicken Soup?
Absolutely! Just add it towards the end to heat through without overcooking.
What side dishes pair well with Sopa de Pollo Cubana?
Serve with crusty bread or a simple green salad for a complete meal.
How can I make this soup spicier?
Add diced jalapeños or chili flakes during cooking for an extra kick!
Cuban Chicken Soup
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x
Description
Cuban Chicken Soup, or Sopa de Pollo Cubana, is a vibrant, heartwarming dish that combines tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and aromatic spices. This comforting soup is perfect for chilly evenings and family gatherings, filling your home with rich flavors that evoke feelings of nostalgia. Each spoonful delivers warmth and joy, making it a beloved recipe for any occasion. Easy to prepare and versatile, Cuban Chicken Soup is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients
- 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
- 4 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- 1 large sweet onion, finely chopped
- 2 medium carrots, sliced into rounds
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 2 tsp ground cumin
- 2 tsp dried oregano
- Juice of 1 lime
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large pot over medium heat, drizzle olive oil and sauté chopped onions and minced garlic until fragrant (about 3 minutes).
- Add diced bell peppers and carrot slices; sauté until slightly tender.
- Add whole chicken breasts to the pot.
- Pour in low-sodium chicken broth along with cumin and oregano; bring to a gentle simmer while stirring occasionally.
- Cover partially with a lid and simmer for about 25-30 minutes.
- Remove chicken breasts from the pot, shred with two forks, then return shredded chicken to the soup.
- Stir in lime juice and chopped cilantro; adjust seasoning if needed.
- Serve hot with crusty bread on the side.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Soups
- Cuisine: Cuban
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
