After a particularly busy week, I found myself craving something warm and comforting, yet vibrant and full of life. That’s when the idea of making Aguadito de Pollo—my version of Poblano Chicken Soup—sparked joy in my kitchen. As the aroma of sautéed poblano peppers and garlic wafted through the air, I couldn’t help but smile at how a simple combination of ingredients could evoke such warmth.
This recipe is a delightful blend of tender chicken, hearty vegetables, and aromatic spices that come together in one pot, making it not just delicious, but also incredibly easy to whip up on a weeknight. With each spoonful, you’ll taste the rich flavors of cumin and lime, brought to life by the freshness of cilantro. It’s perfect for those moments when you want a satisfying meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
Join me in creating this cozy dish—and let’s turn your next dinner into a comforting escape from the ordinary.
Why is Aguadito De Pollo so comforting?
Warmth and flavor collide in this vibrant soup, making it your go-to comfort food. One-pot wonder: minimal cleanup, maximum taste. Versatile: perfect for any occasion—serve it for a cozy dinner or a gathering with friends. Quick preparation: ready in just 25 minutes, this dish brings warmth to your table without keeping you there all night. Health-packed with hearty veggies and lean chicken, indulge guilt-free. Enjoy every spoonful and let the creamy broth warm you from the inside out!
Aguadito De Pollo Ingredients
Discover the soulful goodness packed into this cozy soup.
For the Soup Base
- Avocado oil – a heart-healthy option that enhances the flavor.
- Large poblano pepper – adds a smoky kick and vibrant color.
- Small white onion – sweetens the flavor profile as it sautés.
- Aji amarillo paste (or serrano/jalapeño pepper) – for a touch of heat and depth in flavor.
- Garlic – a must-have for aromatic richness in the broth.
- Chicken stock – using homemade or low-sodium enhances the soup’s overall taste.
For the Hearty Mix
- Shredded or diced cooked chicken – adds protein and heartiness to the dish.
- Yukon gold potatoes – provide creaminess and help thicken the soup.
- Large carrots – their sweetness balances the dish’s flavors wonderfully.
- White or brown rice – helps make the soup filling while soaking up all the flavors.
- Peas – add a pop of color and freshness to each bite.
For the Flavor Boost
- Ground cumin – introduces a warm, earthy note that defines Aguadito De Pollo.
- Fresh cilantro leaves – a fragrant finish that brightens and freshens each serving.
- Lime juice – a vital ingredient that elevates the flavors, bringing it all together.
Optional Garnishes
- Extra chopped fresh cilantro leaves – for an added burst of freshness.
- Thinly-sliced green onions – enhances the presentation and gives a mild onion crunch!
How to Make Aguadito De Pollo
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Heat the avocado oil in a large pot over medium heat until shimmering. This will create a flavorful base for your soup where the ingredients can meld beautifully.
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Sauté the diced poblano pepper, onion, and aji amarillo paste (or serrano/jalapeño) for about 5-7 minutes, until the vegetables are softened and fragrant. You’ll love the way the aromas fill your kitchen!
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Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, stirring constantly. This step allows the garlic to release its rich essence into the soup and enhance the overall flavor profile.
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Pour in 4 cups of chicken stock and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. The bubbling soup signifies that it’s time to infuse the broth with hearty ingredients.
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Combine the cooked chicken, diced potatoes, carrots, rice, peas, and ground cumin into the pot. Stir until everything is evenly mixed and coated with that wonderful broth.
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Adjust the consistency by adding the remaining 2 cups of chicken stock as needed. You want the soup to be cozy but not too thick—so feel free to add more stock for your desired texture!
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Simmer the soup for 20-25 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and the flavors meld beautifully. Your kitchen will smell divine—a sign that it’s almost ready!
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Stir in the fresh cilantro leaves and lime juice just before serving. This final touch adds brightness, enhancing the overall flavor and making it pop!
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Garnish with extra chopped cilantro and thinly sliced green onions if desired. This finishing touch adds a delightful crunch and freshness.
Optional: Add a dash of hot sauce for a spicy kick!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Aguadito De Pollo Variations
Customize your Aguadito De Pollo to suit your taste buds and dietary needs! Each twist adds a new layer of flavor to your cozy soup.
- Vegetarian: Substitute chicken with chickpeas or mushrooms for a hearty plant-based version that still packs a punch.
- Spicy: Add diced jalapeños or a splash of your favorite hot sauce for a fiery kick that will awaken your senses!
- Creamy: Stir in a splash of coconut milk or heavy cream just before serving for a delectable, creamy texture.
- Quinoa: Replace rice with cooked quinoa to add a nutty flavor and extra protein, making it a perfect healthy option.
- Herb Infusion: Mix in fresh parsley or dill along with cilantro for an aromatic twist that brings a refreshing zing to every bite.
- Corn Load: Toss in a cup of fresh or frozen corn to boost the sweetness and add vibrant colors to your comforting bowl.
- Smoky Flavor: Incorporate a dash of smoked paprika for that campfire essence that enhances the hearty depth of your soup.
- Citrus Zest: Grate some lime or lemon zest into the pot for a bright citrus note that complements the soup beautifully.
How to Store and Freeze Aguadito De Pollo
Fridge: Store your Aguadito de Pollo in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Just let it cool completely before sealing to maintain the flavors.
Freezer: Freeze in individual portions for up to 2 months. Make sure to use freezer-safe containers or bags to prevent freezer burn and ensure great taste upon reheating.
Reheating: Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of chicken stock if needed to reach your desired consistency. Enjoy the cozy warmth of this delicious soup!
Room Temperature: If you’re planning to serve your Aguadito de Pollo right away, it can safely sit out for up to 2 hours before it needs to be refrigerated.
Expert Tips for Aguadito De Pollo
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Ingredient Prep: Chop and measure everything beforehand. This makes the cooking process seamless, ensuring your Aguadito de Pollo turns out perfectly without any last-minute scrambling.
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Stock Choice: Using homemade or low-sodium chicken stock makes a significant difference in flavor. Avoid overly salty brands, as they can overpower the dish.
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Vegetable Variations: Feel free to swap in your favorite vegetables. Zucchini or bell peppers can add a delightful twist to your classic Aguadito de Pollo.
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Adjust Consistency: If your soup is too thick, gradually add the remaining chicken stock until you reach your desired texture. This ensures a comforting, cozy broth.
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Garnishing Tricks: For an extra flavor boost, char your garnishes lightly before adding them to the soup. This can enhance the brightness of the cilantro and the crunch of the green onions.
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Make-Ahead Meal: Prepare the soup a day in advance. Allowing it to sit overnight develops incredible flavors, making your Aguadito de Pollo even better the next day!
What to Serve with Aguadito De Pollo?
Cozy up your dinner table with delightful sides that complement the comforting flavors of this vibrant soup.
- Crispy Tortilla Chips: Perfect for dipping, they add a satisfying crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creamy soup.
- Zesty Corn Salsa: Bright and fresh, it brings a burst of flavor to every spoonful, enhancing the overall dining experience.
- Avocado Salad: Creamy avocado drizzled with lime adds a smooth texture, providing a refreshing balance to the warmth of the soup.
- Mexican Rice: Fluffy rice seasoned with spices absorbs the soup’s broth, making each bite even more indulgent and filling.
- Grilled Cheese Sandwich: The melty goodness creates a delightful pairing; the buttery crunch harmonizes beautifully with the rich soup.
- Margaritas: A chilled, citrusy drink that complements the vibrant flavors and brightens your meal while offering a festive touch.
No matter what you choose, these pairings will take your Aguadito de Pollo meal to the next level of comfort!
Make Ahead Options
These Aguadito De Pollo are a fantastic meal prep solution for busy weeknights! You can chop the veggies—like the poblano pepper, onion, and carrots—and refrigerate them in an airtight container for up to 3 days. The cooked chicken can also be shredded and stored separately, helping you streamline your cooking process. Additionally, you can prepare the soup base (steps 1-5) and let it cool before refrigerating for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat your soup on the stove, adding the remaining ingredients (rice, peas, cilantro, and lime juice) as needed for that fresh taste. With these make-ahead tips, you’ll enjoy cozy, homemade comfort in no time!
Aguadito De Pollo Recipe FAQs
What should I look for when choosing poblano peppers?
Select poblano peppers that are firm and dark green, avoiding those with wrinkled skin or dark spots. These peppers should feel heavy for their size, indicating freshness and optimal ripeness.
How should I store leftover Aguadito de Pollo?
Store your Aguadito de Pollo in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Allow the soup to cool completely before sealing it to prevent condensation, which can dilate the flavors.
Can I freeze Aguadito de Pollo?
Absolutely! To freeze, pour the cooled soup into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty zip-top bags. Be sure to leave some space for expansion. It can last up to 2 months in the freezer. When ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stovetop, adding a splash of chicken stock for the best texture.
What if my soup is too thick?
No worries! If your Aguadito de Pollo ends up too thick, just gradually stir in additional chicken stock until you reach your desired consistency. Heat it on low to combine the flavors fully. Adjusting the broth will ensure it remains the perfect cozy warmth.
Is Aguadito de Pollo suitable for everyone?
This soup is generally suitable for most diets, but be mindful if you have specific allergies. It contains chicken, and for vegan or vegetarian options, you could use vegetable stock and plant-based protein. For gluten-free diets, make sure the rice is certified gluten-free and that all stock ingredients are compliant.
Can I add more vegetables or substitute the ones listed?
The more the merrier! Feel free to swap in your favorite veggies like zucchini or bell peppers. Just be sure to maintain the same cooking times to achieve that perfect tenderness. Enjoy experimenting with the recipe!
Warm Up with Flavorful Aguadito De Pollo Comfort Soup
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Heat the avocado oil in a large pot over medium heat until shimmering.
- Sauté the diced poblano pepper, onion, and aji amarillo paste for about 5-7 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, stirring constantly.
- Pour in the chicken stock and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
- Combine the cooked chicken, diced potatoes, carrots, rice, peas, and ground cumin into the pot.
- Adjust the consistency by adding remaining chicken stock as needed.
- Simmer the soup for 20-25 minutes, or until vegetables are tender.
- Stir in the fresh cilantro leaves and lime juice just before serving.
- Garnish with extra chopped cilantro and thinly sliced green onions if desired.