Caldo de Pollo with Vegetables

Name: Caldo de Pollo with Vegetables
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 55 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 1 whole chicken, cut into pieces; 8 cups water; 2 carrots, sliced; 2 potatoes, diced; 1 onion, quartered; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 1 cup green beans, trimmed; 1 cup corn (fresh or frozen); 1 teaspoon cumin; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh cilantro for garnish

Highlighted under: Warm & Hearty Dishes

I love making Caldo de Pollo with Vegetables on chilly days because it’s comforting and nourishing. The aroma of simmering chicken combined with fresh vegetables fills my kitchen and warms my heart. Each bite is bursting with flavors from spices and herbs, creating a wholesome meal that's easy to prepare. I find that using a variety of colorful vegetables not only enhances the taste but also makes the dish visually appealing. Whether for a family dinner or a cozy night in, this recipe never fails to bring joy to the table.

Created by

Leo

Last updated on 2026-01-20T14:38:28.220Z

When experimenting with Caldo de Pollo, I discovered that balancing the right mix of spices can elevate the dish to new heights. The key is to let the chicken simmer slowly; this allows the flavors to meld beautifully. I remember one rainy afternoon when I added a pinch of cumin and some fresh cilantro, and it transformed the entire bowl!

This recipe is incredibly forgiving, and I often adjust ingredients based on what I have available. One time, I mixed in some leftover corn and peas, giving the broth a sweet undertone that everyone loved. It’s little adjustments like these that make cooking a delightful adventure!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Aromatic broth infused with fresh herbs and spices
Hearty and nutritious, perfect for the whole family
Versatile with endless vegetable options for variety

Understanding the Ingredients

The star of the Caldo de Pollo is, of course, the chicken. Using a whole chicken not only maximizes flavor through bone marrow release but also encourages a rich, nourishing broth. If you're short on time, bone-in chicken thighs or breasts can be a good substitute, but they might not impart the same depth of flavor. I recommend opting for organic chicken if possible, as the quality will shine through in the final product.

Fresh vegetables are key to creating the vibrant flavor profile characteristic of this dish. Carrots and potatoes provide natural sweetness and heartiness, while green beans add a satisfying crispness. Feel free to experiment with seasonal veggies like zucchini or bell peppers for added color and nutrients. My personal favorite twist is to add leafy greens like kale or spinach towards the end of cooking for an extra nutritional boost.

Perfecting the Simmer

The simmering phase is crucial for developing flavor and achieving the right texture. After adding the vegetables, aim for a gentle simmer rather than a vigorous boil. The latter can lead to tough chicken and mushy veggies. Keep the pot covered and occasionally check to ensure it's bubbling lightly; you should see gentle steam escaping but not a rolling boil. Simmering for 30 minutes helps infuse the vegetables with the broth's flavor while keeping them tender yet firm.

An optional tip: for deeper flavor, consider adding a bay leaf or a few sprigs of fresh thyme during the simmering process. These aromatic additions can elevate your broth significantly. Just remember to remove any whole herbs before serving to avoid bitterness.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Caldo de Pollo

1 whole chicken, cut into pieces
8 cups water
2 carrots, sliced
2 potatoes, diced
1 onion, quartered
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 cup green beans, trimmed
1 cup corn (fresh or frozen)
1 teaspoon cumin
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh cilantro for garnish

Feel free to substitute or add any vegetables you prefer!

Instructions

Cooking Instructions

Prepare the Chicken

In a large pot, add the chicken pieces and cover with water. Bring to a boil over medium heat. Skim any foam that forms on the surface.

Add Vegetables

Once the chicken is boiled, reduce the heat and add the carrots, potatoes, onion, garlic, and green beans. Season with cumin, salt, and pepper.

Simmer

Let the caldo simmer for 30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender.

Finish the Broth

Add the corn and cook for an additional 5 minutes. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

Serve

Ladle the caldo into bowls, garnish with fresh cilantro, and enjoy warm!

Pair this dish with a side of rice or tortilla for a complete meal.

Pro Tips

For a richer flavor, add a splash of lime juice just before serving. Additionally, you can prepare the broth a day in advance to enhance the taste.

Make-Ahead and Storage

Caldo de Pollo is an excellent make-ahead option. The flavors continue to develop overnight, making it even tastier the next day! Simply let the soup cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers. In the fridge, it will keep well for up to three days, or you can freeze it for about three months. Just be sure to leave some space in the containers for expansion during freezing.

When reheating, I'd recommend using a saucepan over medium heat. To maintain the broth's clarity and prevent veggies from becoming mushy, reheat slowly and add a splash of water if it seems too thick. You’ll want to bring it just to a gentle simmer rather than a boil to avoid overcooking the ingredients.

Serving Suggestions

Caldo de Pollo is delightful served simply, but you can elevate the experience with a few accompaniments. Consider serving it with warm corn tortillas or crusty bread for dipping. A side of avocado slices and a sprinkle of lime juice can add a refreshing twist and extra flavor. My family loves to squeeze fresh lime over the soup for that zesty contrast.

For a unique touch, top each bowl with diced avocado, crumbled queso fresco, or thinly sliced radishes. These additions provide textural contrast and enhance the dish visually. Additionally, a drizzle of homemade chili oil or a sprinkle of chili flakes can give it a delightful kick if you enjoy some heat!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen chicken?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time to ensure it’s fully cooked.

→ What other vegetables can I add?

Feel free to add zucchini, bell peppers, or any seasonal vegetables you have on hand.

→ Can I make it in a slow cooker?

Absolutely! Simply place all the ingredients in the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours.

→ How long can I store leftovers?

Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat thoroughly before serving.