Cuban chicken soup is a flavorful and hearty dish packed with tender chicken, vegetables, and a blend of aromatic spices. This comforting soup is a staple in Cuban cuisine, offering a balance of savory and citrusy flavors that warm you up from the inside out. With ingredients like onions, garlic, peppers, and cilantro, it’s the perfect dish for any season.
Cuban chicken soup is one of those recipes that fills the kitchen with an irresistible aroma. From the first simmer, the chicken becomes tender, and the spices meld together, creating a comforting and rich broth. The subtle tang of lime and the warmth from the spices make every spoonful a delicious experience. Whether served on a chilly day or as a light meal, it always brings satisfaction.
Why You’ll Love This Cuban Chicken Soup Recipe
This Cuban chicken soup recipe combines vibrant flavors with a comforting, hearty broth. It’s perfect for a chilly day and brings a taste of Cuba right to your table. The unique blend of spices adds warmth and depth to every spoonful.
The soup is easy to make, even for beginners. With simple ingredients like chicken, vegetables, and spices, you’ll have a flavorful dish ready in no time. It’s a perfect weeknight dinner option that requires minimal effort.
Packed with healthy ingredients, this Cuban chicken soup is nutritious and satisfying. The lean chicken provides protein, while the veggies add vitamins and fiber. It’s a wholesome meal for the whole family to enjoy.
The versatility of this recipe makes it a go-to. You can adjust the heat by adding more spices or making it milder for kids. It’s a dish that suits all tastes and is sure to please everyone around the table.
Ingredient Notes for Cuban Chicken Soup Recipe
- Chicken: The main protein in this soup provides a rich, savory flavor. Use bone-in chicken for more depth of taste.
- Onion: Adds sweetness and a base of flavor. It’s best to chop the onion finely for an even distribution in the soup.
- Carrots: These add a slight sweetness and a touch of color. Slice them thinly for even cooking.
- Celery: Brings a fresh, crisp texture to the soup. Chop it into small pieces to blend well with the other vegetables.
- Garlic: Adds a fragrant, aromatic base. Mince the garlic to release its full flavor.
- Bay Leaf: This herb adds a subtle, earthy flavor to the soup. Remove it before serving.
- Dried Oregano: Provides an herbal, slightly bitter flavor that pairs perfectly with the other ingredients.
- Cumin: Adds a warm, earthy spice that complements the chicken and other vegetables.
- Salt & Black Pepper: Essential for seasoning. Adjust to taste, ensuring the flavors are balanced.
- Chicken Broth: The liquid base that ties everything together, infusing the soup with savory goodness.
- Potato: Peeled and diced potatoes add a hearty texture and help thicken the soup, making it more filling.
Pre-Preparation of Cuban Chicken Soup Recipe
Before you start cooking, it’s essential to gather your ingredients and perform some preliminary preparation. Begin by chopping your vegetables, including the onions, carrots, and celery. Next, cut the chicken into large pieces, ensuring that you remove the skin and any excess fat. Once that’s done, you’ll be ready to proceed with the cooking process.
How to Make Cuban Chicken Soup Recipe
Ingredients
Here are the ingredients you’ll need for this Cuban chicken soup:
- 1 whole chicken (about 3-4 pounds), cut into pieces
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
- 2 stalks of celery, chopped
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 8 cups chicken broth (or water)
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
- 1 medium potato, peeled and diced
- 1 lime, juiced
- ½ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Directions
Here’s how to make your Cuban chicken soup from start to finish:
- Prepare the Chicken: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces and brown them on all sides for about 5-7 minutes. This will add flavor to the soup.
- Sauté the Vegetables: Once the chicken is browned, remove it from the pot. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery to the same pot. Cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally until the vegetables begin to soften.
- Simmer the Soup: Add the garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds. Pour in the chicken broth or water, and return the chicken pieces to the pot. Add the bay leaf, oregano, cumin, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 30 minutes.
- Add the Remaining Ingredients: After the chicken has simmered for 30 minutes, add the diced potatoes and corn. Continue simmering for an additional 15-20 minutes, until the potatoes are tender and the chicken is fully cooked.
- Final Touches: Remove the chicken from the soup. Shred the chicken meat with a fork and return it to the pot. Stir in the lime juice, fresh cilantro, and parsley. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
- Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with additional cilantro or a sprinkle of hot sauce for added heat. Serve warm and enjoy!
Cuban Chicken Soup Recipe Variation
If you want to add a twist to your Cuban chicken soup, try adding some diced potatoes for extra heartiness or a handful of corn for a touch of sweetness. You can also incorporate a few dashes of hot sauce to bring in some heat. For a richer flavor, add a tablespoon of tomato paste while simmering the vegetables.
How to Serve Cuban Chicken Soup
Cuban chicken soup is perfect on its own, but you can serve it alongside a slice of warm, crusty bread or a side salad to make it a complete meal. You could also offer a small bowl of white rice to stir into the soup for added texture.
For a more festive meal, pair the soup with a Cuban sandwich or fried plantains. The soup is simple yet delicious and can be enjoyed as a light lunch or dinner option. Garnish with fresh cilantro for an added burst of flavor and color.
Storage Options
You can store Cuban chicken soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For more extended storage, please place it in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 3 months. When reheating, ensure it is heated thoroughly until it’s piping hot.
FAQs About the Cuban Chicken Soup Recipe
How long does it take to make Cuban chicken soup?
The cooking time for Cuban chicken soup is usually around 1 to 1.5 hours, allowing the flavors to meld together perfectly. You can also prepare it in a pressure cooker for a quicker version.
What are the key ingredients in Cuban chicken soup?
Key ingredients in Cuban chicken soup include chicken, garlic, onions, carrots, celery, and potatoes, often seasoned with cumin, oregano, and lime. Some variations also include plantains or corn.
Can I make Cuban chicken soup in advance?
Yes, Cuban chicken soup can be made in advance and stored in the fridge for 3-4 days. The flavors tend to deepen the longer it sits, making it even tastier the next day.
Is Cuban chicken soup spicy?
Cuban chicken soup is typically mild, but you can adjust the spice level by adding hot peppers or a dash of hot sauce to suit your taste. The flavor comes from the blend of herbs and citrus, rather than from the heat.