Name: Savory Cuban Chicken Soup You'll Love on Cozy Nights
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil; 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts; 1 cup chopped onions; 3 cloves minced garlic; 2 cups cubed carrots; 2 cups cubed potatoes; 1 cup corn; 4 cups chicken broth; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon cumin powder; 1 teaspoon turmeric powder; 1 teaspoon red chili powder; to taste salt; to taste black pepper powder; 1 cup dried angel hair pasta noodles; 2 tablespoons lime juice

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As the rich, comforting aroma of this Instant Pot Cuban Chicken Soup fills my kitchen, I can’t help but be transported to a sun-soaked street in Havana. The beauty of this recipe is that it brings the vibrant flavors of Cuba to your table, all in a fraction of the time it would take to do it on the stove. With just 30 minutes to whip up, this soup is a perfect solution for those evenings when you’re craving something hearty yet effortlessly delightful.

I stumbled upon this gem while experimenting with my Instant Pot, and let me tell you—this dish is a game-changer. Imagine tender, shredded chicken mingling with fresh vegetables and just the right blend of spices, complemented by a splash of lime juice. It’s not just a meal; it’s a hug in a bowl! Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or simply treating yourself to a satisfying dinner, this Cuban Chicken Soup is a delicious escape from the predictable routines of fast food. Ready to dive in? Let’s get started!

Why is Cuban Chicken Soup a Must-Try?

Craving a dish that’s both comforting and exotic? This Cuban Chicken Soup brings you the best of both worlds.

Effortless Cooking: The Instant Pot does all the heavy lifting for you, making this soup a breeze to prepare.
Hearty and Satisfying: Packed with proteins and veggies, it’s a nutritious option that will fill you up and warm your soul.
Flavor Explosion: A medley of spices like cumin and oregano enhances the rich chicken broth, creating an unforgettable taste.
Versatile Enjoyment: Perfect for cozy family dinners, quick lunches, or meal prep for the week—it’s a winner in any scenario!
Quick Prep: In just 30 minutes, you’ll have a deliciously authentic Cuban meal, ready to enjoy anytime!

Your taste buds deserve this delightful journey to Cuba, so why wait? Dive in today!

Cuban Chicken Soup Ingredients

• Ready to create some culinary magic? Here’s what you need to make this comforting Cuban Chicken Soup!

For the Soup Base

Extra virgin olive oil – Ideal for sautéing and adds a rich depth to the soup.
Boneless skinless chicken breasts – The star of the dish, tender and easy to shred for maximum flavor.
Chopped onions – They add a sweet aroma and base flavor when sautéed.
Minced garlic – A must for infusing the soup with a robust, savory taste.

For the Vegetables

Cubed carrots – Bright, sweet bites that offer a beautiful color and natural sweetness.
Cubed potatoes – They help to thicken the soup, adding a creamy texture without cream.
Corn – Sweet kernels that provide a delightful crunch and freshness.

For the Broth and Seasoning

Chicken broth – The foundation of your soup, providing rich flavor and moisture.
Dried oregano – A key herb for adding layers of aromatic flavor.
Cumin powder – This spice brings a warm, earthy note that’s essential to Cuban cuisine.
Turmeric powder – Adds beautiful color and a hint of warmth.
Red chili powder – For a slight kick of heat that balances the sweetness of the vegetables.
Bay leaf – Imparts a subtle depth of flavor as the soup simmers.
Salt and black pepper powder – Essentials for enhancing all the vibrant tastes in your soup.

For the Noodles and Finish

Dried angel hair pasta noodles – They cook quickly and soak up all the delicious flavors.
Lime juice – A bright, zesty splash that lifts the flavors and adds a refreshing finish.

Now that you have your ingredients ready, let’s bring the delicious warmth of Cuban chicken soup to your kitchen!

How to Make Cuban Chicken Soup

Press SAUTE: Start by pressing the SAUTE button on your Instant Pot. This will prepare the pot for cooking!
Add Oil: Pour in the extra virgin olive oil and let it heat up for a moment.
Arrange Chicken: Once the oil is hot, place the chicken breasts in a single layer in the pot.
Brown Chicken: Sear the chicken for about 3-4 minutes on each side until it’s beautifully browned.
Remove Chicken: Carefully take the chicken out of the pot and set it aside on a plate for a moment.
Sauté Onions: Add chopped onions and minced garlic to the pot. Sauté them for 3-4 minutes until the onions are golden and fragrant.
Add Vegetables: Toss in cubed carrots, potatoes, and corn, and let them cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Stir in Broth and Spices: Pour in the chicken broth and add oregano, cumin, turmeric, red chili powder, bay leaf, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
Return Chicken: Place the chicken breasts back into the pot, ensuring they’re submerged in the broth.
Seal the Pot: Close the lid and set the valve to the sealing position to lock in all the flavors.
Select Pressure Cook: Press CANCEL to reset, then select PRESSURE COOK.
Set Timer: Adjust the timer to cook on high pressure for 8 minutes.
Natural Release: When the timer goes off, let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes for tender, juicy chicken.
Open Lid: Release any remaining pressure manually and carefully open the lid, letting the steam escape.
Discard Bay Leaf: Remove the bay leaf and set it aside. Using tongs, take out the chicken breasts and place them on a chopping board.
Shred Chicken: Use a fork to shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces.
Return Shredded Chicken: Add the shredded chicken back into the pot, mixing it with the flavorful broth and veggies.
Press SAUTE Again: Click the SAUTE button again to bring the soup back to a simmer.
Add Noodles and Lime Juice: Stir in the angel hair pasta noodles and lime juice, cooking for 6-7 minutes until the noodles are tender.
Serve: Carefully ladle the soup into bowls, and garnish with chopped scallions for a fresh touch. Enjoy it hot!

Optional: For an extra kick, sprinkle some additional chili powder on top before serving.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

What to Serve with Cuban Chicken Soup?

Looking to create a delightful dining experience that pairs perfectly with the comforting warmth of your soup?

Crusty French Bread: Ideal for soaking up every last drop of the flavorful broth, this bread adds a crispy texture to your meal.
Cilantro Lime Rice: The vibrant flavors of fresh cilantro and zesty lime balance the spices in the soup beautifully—plus, it’s a filling side!
Avocado Salad: Creamy avocado and crunchy veggies drizzled with lime vinaigrette offer a refreshing contrast, lightening up the hearty soup.
Tropical Fruit Salad: A medley of pineapple, mango, and papaya brings a sweet and tart burst of flavor, complementing the savory notes of your soup.
Spicy Black Beans: Adding a side of seasoned black beans boosts protein and gives a peppy kick alongside the soup’s comforting flavors.
Chilled Sangria: A refreshing glass of fruity sangria elevates the vibe, introducing a sweet and tangy splash that pairs wonderfully with the spices.
Chocolate Flan: End on a sweet note with this rich, creamy dessert—its smooth texture and chocolate flavor are a perfect finale to a flavorful meal.

Make Ahead Options

These Instant Pot Cuban Chicken Soup ingredients are perfect for meal prep! You can chop the onions, garlic, carrots, and potatoes up to 24 hours in advance, placing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain their freshness. Additionally, you can sear the chicken and store it separately for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy this comforting soup, simply combine the prepped ingredients in the Instant Pot as directed, add the broth and spices, and follow through with the cooking steps. By preparing elements ahead of time, your dinner will come together seamlessly, ensuring a delicious and cozy meal on busy weeknights with minimal effort!

How to Store and Freeze Cuban Chicken Soup

Fridge: Store this delicious Cuban Chicken Soup in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave until warmed through.
Freezer: Freeze the soup in individual portions for up to 3 months. Use freezer-safe containers or bags, removing as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge or use the defrost function of your microwave. Heat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or water if it thickens.
Flavor Maintenance: Since pasta can absorb liquid while stored, consider adding fresh pasta during reheating for optimal texture and flavor in your Cuban Chicken Soup.

Cuban Chicken Soup Variations

Feeling creative? This Cuban Chicken Soup is the perfect canvas for your culinary imagination!

Vegetable-Loaded: Add more seasonal vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers for extra nutrients and flavor.
These not only enhance the color but also pack in added vitamins, making your soup even more wholesome.
Spicy Kick: Incorporate diced jalapeños or cayenne pepper for an extra layer of heat that will awaken your taste buds.
Adjust the spice level to your preference—enjoy the warm embrace of spice with every spoonful!
Gluten-Free: Substitute angel hair pasta with gluten-free noodles or rice to cater to dietary needs without sacrificing flavor.
This ensures everyone can enjoy this comforting dish, no matter their dietary restrictions.
Herb Infusion: Swap out dried oregano for fresh cilantro or parsley to introduce a vibrant freshness.
This small tweak can make a remarkable difference, brightening the soup and elevating the entire dining experience.
Creamy Variation: Add a splash of coconut milk for a creamy texture and a subtle tropical flavor twist.
The richness of the coconut milk complements the spices beautifully, creating an indulgent version of the soup.
Pasta Options: Experiment with different pasta types such as macaroni or rice noodles for a delightful textural change.
Each type brings its own unique charm, making discovering your favorite fun and delicious!
Savory Bean Boost: Stir in canned black beans for added protein and a heartier texture.
This variation not only enriches the soup but also offers an authentic Cuban element to the dish.
Citrus Zing: Use fresh orange juice along with lime for a sweet and tangy flavor that uplifts the soup.
The combination adds a refreshing twist, perfect for brightening up your cozy meal any day!

Tips for the Best Cuban Chicken Soup

Sauté Secrets: Sauté the onions and garlic until golden for maximum flavor; burning them can create a bitter taste in your soup.
Shredding Technique: Let the chicken rest briefly after cooking to lock in juices, then shred it using two forks for perfectly tender pieces.
Pasta Perfection: Stir the angel hair noodles in right before serving to prevent overcooking; they should be just al dente for the best texture in your Cuban Chicken Soup.
Spice Customization: Adjust cumin and red chili powder levels according to your heat preference; start with less, then add more if desired.
Broth Boost: Use homemade chicken broth if possible; it adds richer flavor than store-bought options and elevates the entire dish.

Cuban Chicken Soup Recipe FAQs

What kind of chicken should I use for Cuban Chicken Soup?
Absolutely! I recommend using boneless skinless chicken breasts, as they become tender and easy to shred during cooking. If you prefer a richer flavor, you can also use chicken thighs, but keep in mind they may require a little additional cooking time.

How should I store leftover Cuban Chicken Soup?
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just reheat on the stove or microwave until it’s warmed through, and don’t forget to give it a stir!

Can I freeze Cuban Chicken Soup?
Yes, you can freeze it! I suggest portioning the soup into freezer-safe containers or bags. It will maintain its best quality for up to 3 months. When freezing, try to remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.

Why did my chicken turn out tough in the soup?
Very! A common reason for tough chicken is overcooking. Ensure you set the timer for 8 minutes on high pressure and let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes to keep the chicken tender. If it still seems tough, remember that using tightly sealed chicken breasts may require slightly longer cooking times on different models of Instant Pots.

Are there any dietary considerations with this recipe?
Certainly! If you’re cooking for someone with allergies, be cautious about the spices and ensure that the chicken broth does not contain any allergens. Also, consider using gluten-free pasta if you’re aiming for a gluten-free version of Cuban Chicken Soup. Check for any additives in your broth if you have specific dietary restrictions.

Can I add more vegetables to the soup?
Absolutely! The more the merrier. Feel free to incorporate your favorite veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach. Just be mindful of the total cooking time, especially if they have different cooking times than the main ingredients.