Caldo de Pollo Recipe: Authentic Mexican Chicken Soup for Comfort and Nutrition

Caldo de pollo, a beloved Mexican chicken soup, stands out for its hearty ingredients and comforting flavor. Unlike other Latin American chicken soups, this dish uses whole chicken pieces, creating a rich and satisfying meal. Whether craving something warm on a chilly day or seeking a nutritious dish, this Caldo de Pollo Recipe delivers on all fronts.

What Is Caldo de Pollo?

Caldo de pollo, translating to “chicken broth,” is a staple in Mexican households. Packed with large chunks of vegetables and tender chicken, it’s a versatile dish tailored to personal preferences. Traditionally, it includes simple yet flavorful ingredients like carrots, potatoes, zucchini, and cilantro, simmered to perfection.

Ingredients for Caldo de Pollo Recipe

This caldo de pollo recipe features wholesome ingredients, ensuring flavor and nourishment. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 5 pounds of chicken leg quarters: Provides rich flavor and tender meat.
• 2 gallons of water: Forms the base of the broth.
• Seasonings: 2 tablespoons minced garlic, two tablespoons salt, one tablespoon garlic powder, and one chicken bouillon cube.
• Vegetables: 4 large carrots, four large potatoes, four zucchini, 1 chayote, and one large white onion, all cut into hearty chunks.
• Fresh cilantro: Adds burst of freshness to the dish.

How to Make Caldo de Pollo

Follow these simple steps to create warm & delicious bowl of caldo de pollo:

Prepare the Chicken:

Place chicken leg quarters in a large stockpot. Add water, minced garlic, salt, and garlic powder.

Simmer the Broth:

Cover the pot &bring the mixture to boil. Reduce heat & simmer for 2 hours until chicken is tender & begins to fall off the bone.

Add Vegetables:

Stir in the bouillon cube until dissolved, then add the carrots, potatoes, zucchini, chayote, and onion. Simmer over medium-low heat for 1 hour or until vegetables are soft.

Finish with Cilantro:

Stir in freshly chopped cilantro and let it simmer for another 5 minutes.

Serve Hot:

Ladle the caldo de pollo into bowls, ensuring each serving has generous amount of chicken and vegetables.

Tips and Variations

• Customization: Add corn on the cob, cabbage, or celery for extra texture and flavor.
• Serving Suggestions: Pair with warm tortillas, a side of Spanish rice, or a squeeze of lime for a complete meal.
• Storage: Store leftovers in an container in refrigerator for up to one week. Reheat on the stove or microwave before serving.

Why You’ll Love This Caldo de Pollo Recipe

This caldo de pollo recipe isn’t just a meal—it’s an experience. The tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and aromatic broth create a hearty and nutritious dish. It’s perfect for family gatherings, a soothing remedy during cold seasons, or simply when you want a taste of Mexican tradition.