Chicken Caldo
Chicken Caldo is a classic, hearty soup featuring tender bone-in chicken, fresh vegetables, and a savory broth that provides warmth and comfort. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for chilly days, offering a nutrient-rich, flavorful meal that can be customized to your taste preferences.
- Author: Emily
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Soups
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: Filipino
- Diet: Gluten Free
Main Ingredients
- 4 bone-in chicken thighs or drumsticks
- 2 medium carrots, peeled and cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 medium potatoes, peeled and cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup green beans, fresh or frozen, trimmed and cut
- 2 stalks celery, sliced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 6 cups chicken broth or water
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Optional Ingredients
- 1 cup calabaza or pumpkin, peeled and cubed
- 1 tablespoon fish sauce
- Fresh cilantro, chopped for garnish
- Sliced jalapeños or chili flakes (for spicy twist)
- Prepare the Ingredients: Wash and peel the vegetables. Cut carrots, potatoes, green beans, and optional calabaza into bite-sized pieces. Rinse the chicken pieces under cold water and pat dry.
- Sauté the Aromatics: In a large pot, heat a little oil over medium heat. Sauté chopped onions and minced garlic until fragrant and translucent to create a flavorful base for the broth.
- Simmer the Chicken: Add the chicken pieces to the pot. Pour in enough chicken broth or water to cover the ingredients fully. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer to allow the flavors to develop.
- Add Vegetables: When the chicken is halfway cooked (about 20-25 minutes), add carrots, potatoes, celery, green beans, and optional calabaza. Continue simmering until the vegetables are tender but still slightly firm.
- Season and Finish: Season the soup with salt, pepper, and fish sauce if using. Adjust the seasonings gradually to taste. Let the soup simmer for a few more minutes to meld the flavors. Turn off the heat and garnish with freshly chopped cilantro before serving.
Notes
- Use bone-in chicken pieces for a richer and more flavorful broth.
- Skim any foam or impurities from the surface during simmering to keep the broth clear.
- Do not overcook the vegetables; keep them slightly firm to maintain texture.
- Adjust seasoning at the end, as flavors intensify after resting.
- Allow the soup to rest for a bit before serving to deepen the flavors.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (approx. 1.5 cups)
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: Chicken Caldo, Filipino chicken soup, comforting soup, hearty chicken soup, bone-in chicken soup, easy chicken caldo recipe