Print

Chicken Caldo

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.

Ingredients

Scale

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)

Instructions

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. 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

Keywords: Chicken Caldo, Filipino chicken soup, comforting soup, hearty chicken soup, bone-in chicken soup, easy chicken caldo recipe