Caldo de Pollo
Caldo de Pollo is a comforting Mexican chicken soup with tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and authentic flavors. This recipe combines white and dark meat chicken, Mexican oregano, cilantro, and a rich tomato-based broth, making it a heartwarming meal perfect for any occasion.
Equipment
- 5-quart pot or Dutch oven
- Chef’s knife
- Cutting board
- Ladle
- Slotted spoon
Ingredients
Aromatic Base
- 2 tablespoons Olive oil Extra virgin preferred
- ¾ medium White or yellow onion Chopped
- 2 sticks Celery Chopped
- 4 large Carrots Peeled, cut into chunks
- 2 cloves Garlic Whole or minced
Broth & Chicken
- 9 cups Water Filtered if possible
- 8 oz can Tomato sauce No sugar added
- 2 large Chicken breast Skinless, boneless
- 2 Chicken legs Bone-in, skin optional
- 2 cubes Chicken bouillon cubes Any brand
- 1 tablespoon Kosher salt Or ½ tbsp fine salt
- ½ teaspoon Black pepper Freshly ground
- 1 teaspoon Dried Mexican oregano Not Italian oregano
- ¼ cup Fresh cilantro Chopped
Vegetables
- 1 ear Corn on the cob Cut into 5 pieces
- 1 Chayote Cut into 2-inch cubes
- 2 large Russet potatoes Cut into 2-inch cubes
- 2 medium Zucchini Cut into 2-inch cubes
Optional Garnishes
- to taste Lime Fresh squeezed
- to taste Hot sauce Your favorite
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion, celery, and carrots, sauté until onions are translucent, about 3 minutes. Add garlic and cook 1 minute more.
- Pour in water and tomato sauce. Add chicken breasts and legs, bouillon cubes, salt, black pepper, and Mexican oregano. Bring to a rolling boil, then reduce heat to a gentle simmer and cook 30 minutes until chicken is tender.
- Add cilantro, corn, chayote, and potatoes. Simmer covered for 10 minutes until potatoes are halfway tender.
- Add zucchini pieces. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Cover and simmer 10 more minutes. Turn off heat and let soup rest 5 minutes.
- Serve in bowls, drizzle with lime juice, and add hot sauce if desired. Optional: shred chicken or serve pieces whole.
Notes
For extra flavor, add 2 bay leaves or a small bunch of mint. Can include serrano peppers for heat, or add white rice during last 15 minutes for heartiness. Freezes up to 3 months.