Cuban Chicken Soup Fiesta Recipe
If there’s a soup that instantly brings comfort, warmth, and a spirit of celebration to my table, it’s the Cuban Chicken Soup Fiesta. Bursting with juicy chicken, hearty root vegetables, sweet corn, creamy pumpkin, aromatic spices, and a zesty touch of lime, this is more than just soup—it’s a bowlful of Cuban sunshine and love. Every spoonful is a vibrant symphony of flavors and textures that somehow tastes even better when shared, and it has become my favorite way to gather friends and family for a truly memorable meal!
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of Cuban Chicken Soup Fiesta is how each simple ingredient plays its part: from the layered depth of the spices to the fresh lift of cilantro and lime, everything brings personality to the pot. Choose the freshest vegetables and aromatic herbs you can find, and your soup will absolutely shine!
- Olive oil (2 tablespoons): Goes into the pot first, creating a savory base while helping to bloom the other flavors.
- Onion (1 medium, diced): Adds sweetness and a subtle, mellow richness that builds the soup’s foundation.
- Green bell pepper (1, diced): Offers a pop of color and a touch of earthy, vegetal crunch.
- Garlic (4 cloves, minced): Infuses every bite with mouthwatering aroma and gentle pungency.
- Ground cumin (2 teaspoons): Brings smoky depth and lovely complexity to the broth.
- Dried oregano (1 teaspoon): Lends a subtle herbal note that’s quintessentially Cuban.
- Ground turmeric or annatto powder (1/2 teaspoon): Adds beautiful golden color and a whisper of warmth.
- Chicken broth (6 cups): The base that pulls all the flavors together—homemade or good-quality store-bought is perfect.
- Chicken breasts or thighs (2 large, bone-in and skin-on): For succulent, tender meat and lots of body to the broth.
- Carrots (2 medium, sliced): Contribute subtle sweetness and plenty of cheerful color.
- Potatoes (2 medium, diced): Make the soup satisfying and give it heartiness.
- Sweet potato (1 medium, peeled and cubed): Adds a hint of sweetness and gorgeous orange color.
- Pumpkin or butternut squash (1 cup, cubed): Delivers a silky texture and mild, natural sweetness.
- Corn (1 ear, cut into 3 pieces): Bursts of juicy, sweet flavor in every bowl!
- Rice (1/2 cup, rinsed): Thickens the soup, giving it a wonderful, cozy feel.
- Fresh cilantro (1/4 cup, chopped): Brings a citrusy, herbal lift to finish the fiesta.
- Lime juice (juice of 1 lime): The zingy touch that brightens every spoonful.
- Salt and pepper (to taste): To perfectly season each hearty, flavorful element.
How to Make Cuban Chicken Soup Fiesta
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Start by heating the olive oil in a large soup pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion, green bell pepper, and minced garlic. Sauté for 3 to 4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables soften and their aroma fills your kitchen. This simple step lays down a foundation of flavor that will carry through to the last, delicious bite.
Step 2: Bloom the Spices
Sprinkle in the ground cumin, dried oregano, and turmeric (or annatto powder), stirring constantly. Let them toast for about 30 seconds. This quick bloom unlocks deeper flavors and creates that warm, inviting color in your Cuban Chicken Soup Fiesta. The scent is irresistible!
Step 3: Build the Broth
Pour in the chicken broth and then nestle your chicken pieces into the bubbling goodness. Raise the heat and bring everything gently to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to a strong simmer. The chicken will slowly release its flavor, enriching the entire broth for a soup that tastes like it’s been simmering all day.
Step 4: Add the Vegetables
Drop in the sliced carrots, diced potatoes, cubed sweet potato, pumpkin or butternut squash, and corn pieces. The variety of vegetables creates beautiful color and complexity in every ladleful, reflecting the festive spirit of the Cuban Chicken Soup Fiesta. Let those veggies simmer away for about 20 minutes, softening and melding into the broth.
Step 5: Cook the Rice
Rinse the rice thoroughly to remove excess starch, then stir it into the simmering soup. Continue cooking for roughly 15 minutes, until both the rice and chicken are fully cooked. By this point, your kitchen will smell amazing, and the soup will have transformed into a true fiesta of flavors.
Step 6: Shred and Return the Chicken
Carefully remove the chicken pieces to a plate. Using two forks, shred the meat into hearty, bite-sized pieces, discarding skin and bones. Return the shredded chicken to the pot, mixing well so every spoonful of Cuban Chicken Soup Fiesta is loaded with flavor and texture.
Step 7: Brighten and Season
To finish, stir in the fresh cilantro, a generous squeeze of lime juice, plus salt and pepper to taste. These final touches bring unbeatable freshness and zest, elevating the soup from delicious to downright unforgettable. Serve the soup piping hot!
How to Serve Cuban Chicken Soup Fiesta
Garnishes
Top each bowl with a flourish of fresh chopped cilantro, a slice of lime for squeezing, or thinly sliced green onions for a burst of crunch and color. For a classic touch, offer a few avocado slices or a sprinkle of extra black pepper so everyone can personalize their own Cuban Chicken Soup Fiesta experience.
Side Dishes
This soup loves good company! Serve it with slabs of crusty bread to soak up every drop, or a side of fluffy white rice for extra heartiness. A simple salad with tomato and cucumber works perfectly to contrast the warmth of the soup while staying true to those island flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
Take your Cuban Chicken Soup Fiesta to the next level by serving in deep, colorful bowls or even hollowed-out bread loaves for a rustic touch. Set out a tray of garnishes and let your guests build their own ultimate version. It’s just as much fun as it is delicious!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Allow your soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Stored in the fridge, your Cuban Chicken Soup Fiesta will keep beautifully for up to 4 days, and the flavors only deepen with time. Just be sure to stir well before reheating, as the rice may thicken the texture.
Freezing
For longer storage, ladle the cooled soup into freezer-safe containers, leaving an inch for expansion. Cuban Chicken Soup Fiesta freezes well for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating for best texture (especially the potatoes!).
Reheating
To reheat, simply warm the soup over medium-low heat on the stovetop until steaming hot, stirring occasionally. If it’s thickened too much, add a splash of chicken broth or water. Alternatively, individual portions can be microwaved; just cover loosely and heat until hot throughout.
FAQs
Can I use boneless, skinless chicken?
Absolutely! While bone-in, skin-on pieces add more flavor and richness, you can use boneless chicken breasts or thighs in your Cuban Chicken Soup Fiesta. Reduce simmering time by about 10 minutes and keep an eye on doneness.
Is there a vegetarian version of Cuban Chicken Soup Fiesta?
Yes! Swap out the chicken for chickpeas or hearty white beans, and use vegetable broth instead. You’ll still capture the vibrant, comforting spirit of this dish, making it perfect for all diets.
What’s the best way to add extra heat?
If you like spice, a finely diced jalapeño or a pinch of crushed red pepper goes beautifully in this recipe. Add them along with the onions and peppers to infuse gentle warmth throughout your Cuban Chicken Soup Fiesta.
Can I make this in a slow cooker?
Definitely. Follow the same steps but add everything except the rice, cilantro, and lime to your slow cooker. Cook on low for 6 to 7 hours or high for 3 to 4 hours, adding the rice in the last hour of cooking. Finish with cilantro and lime before serving.
What vegetables can I substitute?
Feel free to substitute or add vegetables like zucchini, yucca, or chayote if you have them—they’re traditional in Cuba and add unique flavors. The heart of Cuban Chicken Soup Fiesta is about adapting to what’s fresh and available!
Final Thoughts
If you’re searching for one dish to unite a hungry crowd and fill your home with warmth, joy, and bold flavor, this Cuban Chicken Soup Fiesta is it. Try it once, and you just might find it becoming a regular celebration at your table. Let the good times (and great soup) roll!
Print
Cuban Chicken Soup Fiesta Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Cuban Chicken Soup Fiesta is a hearty and flavorful soup that combines tender chicken with a variety of vegetables and aromatic spices. This comforting dish is perfect for a cozy night in or for entertaining guests with its vibrant Cuban flavors.
Ingredients
Main Soup:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion diced
- 1 green bell pepper diced
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- 2 teaspoons ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric or annatto powder
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 2 large chicken breasts or thighs bone-in and skin-on
- 2 medium carrots sliced
- 2 medium potatoes diced
- 1 medium sweet potato peeled and cubed
- 1 cup pumpkin or butternut squash cubed
- 1 ear corn cut into 3 pieces
- 1/2 cup rice rinsed
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro chopped
- juice of 1 lime
- salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Heat olive oil: In a large soup pot over medium heat, add onion, bell pepper, and garlic. Sauté until softened.
- Add spices: Stir in cumin, oregano, and turmeric, cook to bloom the spices.
- Add broth and chicken: Pour in chicken broth, add chicken. Bring to a boil, then simmer.
- Add vegetables: Add carrots, potatoes, sweet potato, pumpkin, and corn. Cook for 20 minutes.
- Add rice: Stir in rice and continue simmering until rice is tender.
- Shred chicken: Remove chicken, shred meat, discard bones, and return meat to the pot.
- Season and serve: Season with salt, pepper, lime juice, and cilantro. Serve hot with bread or rice.
Notes
- For extra flavor, sear chicken before adding vegetables and broth.
- This soup can be made in a slow cooker on low for 6–7 hours or high for 3–4 hours.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Cuban
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 1/2 cups
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 640mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
