Craving a heartwarming, flavorful soup that transports you to the sunny streets of Cuba? Look no further! This Cuban chicken soup, also known as sopa de pollo a la Cubana, is a delicious and surprisingly easy recipe perfect for a cozy night in or a vibrant family gathering. This recipe provides a healthy and satisfying meal, easily adaptable to your preferences, making it a fantastic addition to your repertoire of easy recipes and quick dinner ideas. It's a testament to the magic of homemade cooking – transforming simple ingredients into a truly delicious dish.
Ingredients: You'll need these simple ingredients for this delightful soup.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 8 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup cooked chicken, shredded (rotisserie chicken works perfectly!)
- 1 cup chopped carrots
- 1 cup chopped celery
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/4 teaspoon saffron threads (optional, but adds beautiful color and flavor)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup cooked rice (optional, for added heartiness)
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Lime wedges (for garnish)
Instructions: Let's get cooking!
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Sauté the aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the garlic and green bell pepper and cook for another 2-3 minutes, until slightly tender.
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Build the flavor base: Add the diced tomatoes (undrained), chicken broth, carrots, and celery to the pot. Stir in the oregano, cumin, and saffron (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
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Add the chicken and rice: Stir in the shredded chicken and cooked rice (if using). Simmer for another 5 minutes to heat through.
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Serve and enjoy: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh cilantro and a lime wedge.
Tips for the Best Cuban Chicken Soup:
- Rotisserie chicken shortcut: Using rotisserie chicken is a fantastic time-saver! It adds great flavor without requiring extra cooking time.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce for a spicier kick.
- Fresh herbs are best: If you have fresh oregano and cilantro on hand, use them instead of the dried varieties for an even more vibrant flavor.
- Adjust the thickness: If you prefer a thicker soup, simmer it uncovered for a longer period to allow some of the liquid to evaporate.
Variations: Make it your own!
- Add other vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables you enjoy, such as corn, zucchini, or potatoes.
- Bean boost: Include a can of drained and rinsed black beans or kidney beans for extra protein and fiber.
- Citrus zest: A little lime or orange zest adds a delightful citrusy note.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This information is approximate and will vary based on specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 250-300
- Protein: 20-25g
- Fat: 5-7g
- Carbohydrates: 25-30g
- Fiber: 3-5g
This Cuban chicken soup recipe is a wonderful example of delicious dishes that are also healthy meals. It's a simple yet flavorful soup that is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion. It's one of the best recipes for those seeking healthy and satisfying food. Enjoy this taste of sunshine!