There’s nothing quite like the warm embrace of a hearty bowl of Cuban-Style Chicken Soup on a chilly evening. The moment I pour the fragrant broth into a bowl, I’m transported to a bustling Cuban kitchen, where the air is thick with the enticing scents of garlic and fresh herbs. This isn’t just any chicken soup; it’s a vibrant medley of flavors—fleshy chicken thighs, colorful veggies, and the subtle sweetness of plantains blend together to create a dish that nourishes both body and soul.
Feeling tired of the usual fast-food fare? I turned to this satisfying recipe as a hassle-free way to breathe life back into my dinner routine. The beauty lies in its versatility—whether you need a comforting family meal or a dish that impresses guests, this soup ticks all the boxes. Grab your favorite pot, and let’s unlock the incredible flavors of this Cuban-inspired delight that’s bound to be a crowd-pleaser!
Why is Cuban-Style Chicken Soup a Must-Try?
Comforting Warmth: There’s nothing like a hearty bowl of this soup to warm you up on a chilly day.
Vibrant Flavors: The unique blend of Sazón seasoning and fresh herbs creates a deliciously robust flavor.
Vegetable Power: Packed with colorful veggies and protein-rich chicken, it’s a nutritious meal in a bowl.
Easy Preparation: This recipe comes together effortlessly, making weeknight dinners a breeze.
Feeding a Crowd: With 10 servings, it’s perfect for gatherings or meal prep for busy days.
Don’t miss out on making your own version of this delightful dish—explore more family-friendly recipes on our blog!
Cuban-Style Chicken Soup Ingredients
For the Soup Base
• Olive oil – This adds a rich flavor and helps sauté the vegetables.
• Onion – A foundational aromatic that enhances the overall taste of the soup.
• Green bell pepper – Adds a crunchy texture and subtle sweetness to the mix.
• Skinless, boneless chicken thighs – Tender and juicy, they provide a hearty base for the soup.
• Minced garlic – Infuses the soup with a warm, aromatic essence.
• Salt – Enhances all the flavors; adjust to your taste as needed.
• Freshly ground black pepper – Adds a hint of spice; you can substitute with white pepper if preferred.
For the Seasoning
• Sazón seasoning – A key element that gives the soup its authentic Cuban flavor profile.
• Granulated garlic – For an added layer of savory taste.
• Onion powder – Boosts the onion flavor without the need for fresh; handy for quick preparation.
• Ground cumin – Offers a warm, earthy note that complements the other spices.
• Dried oregano – Adds a fragrant herbaceous quality to the dish.
For the Veggies
• Fire-roasted tomatoes – Provide deep, smoky flavor and richness to the broth.
• Low-sodium chicken broth – The soup’s base; using low-sodium helps control salt levels.
• Fresh cilantro – Brightens the soup with freshness; can be added or omitted based on preference.
• Carrots – Sweet and colorful, they bring both nutrition and visual appeal to the soup.
• Red potatoes – Their creaminess adds a satisfying texture; you can switch to white potatoes if desired.
• Yucca – A hearty root vegetable that contributes a unique flavor and texture.
• Corn – Sweet and crunchy, it elevates the soup’s taste and adds vibrant color.
For the Noodles and Plantains
• Fideo noodles – These thin pasta noodles cook quickly and soak up the delicious broth.
• Ripe plantains – They add a subtle sweetness, balancing the soup’s savory notes.
For Serving
• Lime wedges – A squeeze just before eating brightens the soup with acidity.
• Cilantro sprigs – Optional garnish that adds a final touch of color and flavor.
Now you have everything you need to create a delectable Cuban-Style Chicken Soup sure to impress your family and friends!
How to Make Cuban-Style Chicken Soup
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Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once shimmering, add the diced onion and green bell pepper. Sauté until softened, about 4-5 minutes, releasing those fabulous aromas!
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Brown the chicken thighs by adding them to the pot. Cook until nicely browned, around 5-7 minutes, ensuring the chicken is cooked through.
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Stir in the minced garlic, salt, black pepper, Sazón seasoning, granulated garlic, onion powder, ground cumin, and dried oregano. Cook for 2 minutes, allowing the spices to bloom in the heat.
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Add the fire-roasted tomatoes and chicken broth to the pot. Bring the mixture to a boil, letting all the flavors combine beautifully.
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Incorporate the sliced carrots, red potatoes, yucca, and corn. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 20 minutes, until the vegetables are tender.
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Stir in the fideo noodles and cubed plantains. Cook until the noodles are tender, about 10 minutes. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.
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Finish by stirring in the fresh cilantro before serving. Plate with lime wedges on the side, and garnish with cilantro sprigs for that extra flair!
Optional: A drizzle of hot sauce adds a spicy kick!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Cuban-Style Chicken Soup
Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh herbs and spices enhance the flavor of your Cuban-Style Chicken Soup, creating a vibrant dish that tastes homemade.
Avoid Overcooking: Overcooked vegetables can lose their texture. Monitor cooking times closely, especially for carrots and potatoes, to keep them tender-crisp.
Balance the Flavors: If your soup tastes flat, consider adding a splash of lime juice or a pinch of salt to brighten up the flavors before serving.
Cook Noodles Separately: To prevent soggy fideo noodles, consider cooking them separately and adding them to each bowl right before serving.
Customize Your Veggies: Feel free to swap out vegetables based on your preferences or what you have on hand—this soup is about flexibility and creativity!
How to Store and Freeze Cuban-Style Chicken Soup
Fridge: Keep your Cuban-Style Chicken Soup in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Allow the soup to cool before sealing to maintain its flavor and texture.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the soup in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Portioning before freezing makes it easy to defrost just what you need.
Reheating: To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm gently on the stove over low heat until heated through, stirring occasionally to ensure even warming.
Storage Tips: If planning to freeze, consider cooking the fideo noodles separately, as they can become mushy when frozen. Portion the soup without noodles and add them fresh when serving.
Cuban-Style Chicken Soup Variations
Feel free to get creative and make this dish truly your own with these delightful twists!
- Spicy Kick: Add chopped jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce for a zesty heat that wakes up the taste buds.
- Vegetarian Delight: Replace the chicken with chickpeas or tofu for a hearty plant-based version that doesn’t skimp on flavor.
- Whole Wheat Noodles: Swap fideo noodles for whole wheat or zucchini noodles to boost nutritional value while maintaining a satisfying texture.
- Embrace the Greens: Stir in kale or spinach at the end of cooking for an extra layer of nutrients and a vibrant splash of color.
- Coconut Creamy: Pour in a can of coconut milk for a richer, creamier broth that adds a delightful tropical twist!
- Herbaceous Boost: Experiment with fresh herbs like parsley or basil, stirring them in right before serving for freshness and aroma.
- Savory Smoked Flavor: Use smoked chicken or add some smoked paprika for a deep, savory note that enhances the overall taste.
- Root Vegetable Medley: Swap in sweet potatoes or butternut squash for added sweetness and a different texture that’s equally comforting.
The magic of cooking is in the customization—let your personal taste shine through!
What to Serve with Cuban-Style Chicken Soup?
Comfort food gets even cozier when you pair it with delightful sides that enhance the meal experience.
- Warm Crusty Bread: A perfect vehicle for soaking up every last bit of the rich broth, this bread adds a satisfying texture to your meal.
- Cilantro Lime Rice: Infused with fresh herbs and citrus, this dish adds a zesty twist that complements the flavors of the soup beautifully.
For a contrasting crunch, consider adding a fresh side salad.
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Avocado Salad: Creamy avocado chunks paired with diced tomatoes and onions create a refreshing balance against the hearty soup. It’s light yet packed with flavor!
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Grilled Cheese Sandwiches: Nostalgic and delightful, melty grilled cheese sandwiches on the side offer a savory crisp that pairs perfectly with warm soup.
For something sweet to finish, indulge in a light dessert.
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Coconut Flan: Silky and rich, this traditional dessert mirrors the soup’s tropical flair while providing a sweet end to your meal.
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Mango Sorbet: A fruity, frosty treat that refreshes your palate after the warm, comforting bowl of Cuban-Style Chicken Soup—a truly delightful duo!
Completing your meal with these delightful side dishes will surely elevate your dining experience. Enjoy!
Make Ahead Options
Cuban-Style Chicken Soup is an absolute gem for busy home cooks seeking to save time during the week! You can chop and refrigerate the vegetables—like onions, bell peppers, carrots, and yucca—up to 3 days in advance to make assembly a breeze. Additionally, you can marinate the chicken with the spices and keep it covered in the fridge for up to 24 hours, allowing the flavors to infuse. When it’s time to enjoy your soup, simply follow the cooking instructions from the recipe, adding the prepped ingredients directly into the pot. This approach ensures that your soup remains just as delicious, saving you precious time while impressing your family with that homemade goodness!
Cuban-Style Chicken Soup Recipe FAQs
How do I choose ripe plantains for this soup?
Absolutely! Look for plantains that have a yellow skin with a few dark spots. These indicate ripeness, meaning they’ll be sweet and flavorful in your soup. Avoid ones that are entirely black or overly soft, as they may be too ripe and mushy.
How should I store leftover Cuban-Style Chicken Soup?
Very! Store your soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure to let it cool completely before sealing to keep the flavors fresh and vibrant! If you want to enjoy it later, freezing is a fantastic option.
What’s the best way to freeze Cuban-Style Chicken Soup?
To freeze, portion your soup into freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Avoid freezing with the fideo noodles mixed in, as they can get mushy. Instead, cook the noodles fresh when you’re ready to enjoy the soup. Simply thaw the soup overnight in the fridge, then reheat on the stove until warmed through!
I find my soup too salty; how can I fix it?
No worries! If your soup tastes a bit salty, try adding a splash of water or low-sodium broth to dilute the flavors. Adding extra vegetables like diced potatoes or carrots can help absorb some of the saltiness, too. Let it simmer for a few minutes after adjustments for the best results.
Is this soup safe for pets?
It’s best to keep this Cuban-Style Chicken Soup away from pets. Ingredients like onion and garlic can be harmful to dogs and cats in larger quantities. If you’re looking to make a pet-friendly dish, consider a simple boiled chicken and rice without any spices or seasoning instead.
Discover the Magic of Cuban-Style Chicken Soup Today
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once shimmering, add the diced onion and green bell pepper. Sauté until softened, about 4-5 minutes.
- Brown the chicken thighs by adding them to the pot. Cook until nicely browned, around 5-7 minutes.
- Stir in the minced garlic, salt, black pepper, Sazón seasoning, granulated garlic, onion powder, ground cumin, and dried oregano. Cook for 2 minutes.
- Add the fire-roasted tomatoes and chicken broth to the pot. Bring the mixture to a boil.
- Incorporate the sliced carrots, red potatoes, yucca, and corn. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 20 minutes.
- Stir in the fideo noodles and cubed plantains. Cook until the noodles are tender, about 10 minutes.
- Finish by stirring in the fresh cilantro before serving. Plate with lime wedges on the side.