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Caldo De Pollo Recipe (3)

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

A hearty and authentic caldo de pollo recipe made with tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and aromatic herbs. This traditional Mexican chicken soup is perfect for comforting meals and bringing family together.

  • Total Time: 55 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 whole chicken (cut into pieces) or 6–8 bone-in chicken thighs/drumsticks
  • 2 medium carrots, sliced
  • 2 celery stalks, chopped
  • 1 medium yellow onion, quartered
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 medium potatoes, diced (optional)
  • 2 ears of corn, cut into rounds (optional)
  • 2 medium zucchinis, sliced (optional)
  • 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth or water
  • 2 large tomatoes, diced or 1 cup canned tomatoes
  • 2 bay leaves
  • 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
  • 1–2 jalapeños or serrano peppers, sliced (optional)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Lime wedges, for serving

Instructions

  • Rinse chicken pieces and pat dry. Brown them in a large pot with olive oil over medium heat for 5–7 minutes on each side. Remove and set aside.
  • In the same pot, sauté onion, garlic, carrots, and celery until softened (about 5 minutes).
  • Return the chicken to the pot and add chicken broth or water to cover all ingredients.
  • Stir in tomatoes, bay leaves, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil.
  • Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 30–40 minutes. Add optional ingredients like potatoes or corn halfway through cooking.
  • Remove chicken, shred meat, and discard bones. Return shredded chicken to the pot.
  • Adjust seasoning and stir in chopped cilantro.
  • Serve hot with lime wedges, tortillas, or crusty bread.

Notes

  • For extra flavor, roast or char the vegetables before adding them to the soup.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for later use.
  • Adjust spice levels by adding more or fewer jalapeños.
  • Author: Maria
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 40 minutes
  • Category: Soups & Stews
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Mexican
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 bowl (approximately 2 cups)
  • Calories: 250 kcal
  • Sugar: 4 g
  • Sodium: 480 mg
  • Fat: 10 g
  • Saturated Fat: 3 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 16 g
  • Fiber: 3 g
  • Protein: 25 g
  • Cholesterol: 80 mg

Keywords: Caldo de pollo recipe, Mexican chicken soup, authentic caldo de pollo, chicken soup recipe, traditional Mexican soup