Hearty Cuban Chicken Soup: A Flavorful Latin Classic

Name: Cuban Chicken Soup (Sopa de Pollo Cubana)
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Cuban
Ingredients: 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs; 4 cloves fresh garlic, minced; 1 medium yellow onion, diced; 1 cup bell peppers (red and green), chopped; 2 medium carrots, sliced thinly; 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped; 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth; Juice of 1 lime; 1 tsp ground cumin; 1 tsp dried oregano; Salt and pepper to taste

Recipe By:

James Walker

Posted:

August 10, 2025

Updated:

August 10, 2025

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It’s a chilly evening, and the aroma of Cuban Chicken Soup, or Sopa de Pollo Cubana, wafts through the air, promising warmth and comfort. This hearty, flavorful Latin classic is like a warm hug in a bowl, inviting you to savor its rich flavors and vibrant ingredients.

Imagine spooning up a bowl of this soul-soothing soup while gathering with family or friends, sharing laughter and stories. It’s the perfect dish for those cozy nights when you want something that not only fills your belly but also warms your heart.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This Cuban Chicken Soup is simple to prepare yet packed with bold flavors that transport you straight to Havana
It’s visually appealing with vibrant colors from fresh veggies and herbs
Perfect for family gatherings or weeknight dinners, it can be customized based on your taste preferences

Sharing this soup at dinner once left my friends asking for seconds—and then thirds! Their happy faces said it all.

Recipe preparation

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Boneless, Skinless Chicken Thighs: Thighs stay juicy during cooking and add incredible flavor to the broth.
Fresh Garlic: Use whole garlic cloves for an aromatic punch; they’ll mellow deliciously as they cook.
Onions: Choose yellow onions for their sweet taste; they’ll caramelize beautifully in the pot.
Bell Peppers: A mix of colors adds visual appeal; go for red and green for a nice contrast.
Carrots: Slice them thinly so they cook evenly and add sweetness to balance savory flavors.
Cilantro: Fresh cilantro elevates the dish with its bright flavor; don’t skimp on this herb!
Chicken Broth: Opt for low-sodium broth to control the saltiness and let other flavors shine.
Lime Juice: Fresh lime juice brightens the soup; squeeze it in just before serving for extra zing.
Spices (Cumin, Oregano): These spices bring warmth; use freshly ground cumin if you can for better flavor.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Prepare Your Ingredients: Chop your chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces. Dice the onions, mince the garlic, and slice the bell peppers and carrots. Get everything ready before you start cooking.

Sauté the Aromatics: Heat a large pot over medium heat with a splash of olive oil. Add onions and garlic until they soften and release their heavenly aroma—about 3-4 minutes.

Add Chicken and Veggies: Toss in your chicken pieces along with bell peppers and carrots. Cook until chicken is browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. The colors should pop!

Pour in Broth & Seasoning: Pour in chicken broth alongside cumin, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine all those lovely flavors. Bring it to a gentle simmer.

Simmer Until Tender: Let your soup simmer on low heat for about 20-25 minutes until the chicken is thoroughly cooked and tender. Your kitchen will smell absolutely divine!

Add Final Touches: Remove from heat before adding fresh lime juice and chopped cilantro. Taste-test it—add more seasoning if needed! Serve hot with crusty bread or rice on the side.

Now you’re ready to dive into this comforting bowl of Cuban Chicken Soup Sopa de Pollo Cubana! Enjoy every slurp as you bask in its rich flavors and aromas—a true Latin classic guaranteed to warm both body and soul.

You Must Know

Sopa de Pollo Cubana is more than a dish; it’s a hug in a bowl
The vibrant flavors and aroma will transport you straight to a Cuban kitchen, making it perfect for cozy nights or family gatherings

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by sautéing onions and garlic until fragrant, then add the chicken and simmer with spices. This sequence builds flavor layers for that authentic taste.

Serving and storing

Add Your Touch

Feel free to substitute vegetables based on what you have, or try adding a splash of lime juice for brightness. Customize it to suit your palate!

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on low heat to preserve the soup’s rich flavors.

Chef's Helpful Tips

To achieve the best flavor, always use fresh herbs; they elevate your Sopa de Pollo Cubana significantly
Allow the soup to rest before serving for enhanced taste
Keep an eye on the chicken while cooking to prevent overcooking

Cooking this soup reminds me of my grandma’s kitchen, where her laughter mixed with her famous Sopa de Pollo Cubana created unforgettable memories.

FAQs

FAQ

What makes Cuban chicken soup unique?

The blend of spices and fresh ingredients creates a comforting, hearty flavor profile.

Can I make Sopa de Pollo Cubana ahead of time?

Absolutely! It tastes even better after sitting overnight as flavors deepen.

Is it possible to freeze Cuban chicken soup?

Yes, you can freeze it, just ensure it’s cooled completely before storing in airtight containers.

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