Authentic and Flavorful: Sopa de Fideo With Chicken

Sopa de Fideo, a traditional Mexican noodle soup, is a comforting and hearty dish that warms both the body and soul. Made with simple ingredients like chicken, fideo noodles, and aromatic spices, this soup is bursting with flavor and perfect for any occasion. In this recipe, we’ll show you how to make a delicious and authentic Sopa de Fideo With Chicken that’s sure to become a family favorite. Let’s get started!

Ingredients:

• Chicken drumsticks, skin on
• Olive oil
• Fideo noodles
• Water
• Tomato paste
• Garlic powder
• Chicken Knorr seasoning
• Salt to taste

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Chicken:

1. Begin by heating a tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Season the chicken drumsticks with salt and pepper, then add them to the pot.
2. Sear the chicken drumsticks on all sides until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side. Once browned, remove the chicken from the pot and set aside.

2. Cook the Fideo Noodles:

1. In the same pot, add another tablespoon of olive oil if needed. Add the fideo noodles to the pot and sauté them until lightly golden and toasted, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Once the noodles are toasted, add the tomato paste and garlic powder to the pot. Stir to combine and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes.

3. Add the Chicken and Seasonings:

1. Return the seared chicken drumsticks to the pot with the noodles. Pour in enough water to cover the chicken and noodles completely.
2. Stir in the chicken Knorr seasoning and salt to taste. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer, covered, for about 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender.

4. Serve:

1. Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the pot and shred the meat using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the pot and stir to combine.
2. Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Serve the Sopa de Fideo hot, garnished with fresh cilantro, avocado slices, and a squeeze of lime juice, if desired.

Cook Notes and Variations:

• Vegetarian Version: For a vegetarian version of this soup, omit the chicken and use vegetable broth instead of water. You can also add diced vegetables like carrots, celery, and bell peppers for added flavor and texture.
• Spice it Up: Feel free to add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper for some heat. You can also garnish the soup with chopped fresh jalapeños for extra flavor.
• Add More Protein: If you prefer more protein in your soup, you can add cooked shredded chicken breast, ground beef, or diced ham along with the chicken drumsticks.

Keto and Low-Carb Version:

To make a keto and low-carb version of Sopa de Fideo, you can make the following adjustments:

• Replace Fideo Noodles: Substitute traditional fideo noodles with shirataki noodles or zucchini noodles for a low-carb option.
• Adjust Seasonings: Be mindful of the tomato paste and chicken Knorr seasoning, as they may contain added sugars. Opt for low-carb tomato paste or use fresh tomatoes and adjust the seasoning with salt, pepper, and your favorite herbs and spices.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

1. What is Fideo? Fideo is a type of thin pasta commonly used in Mexican cuisine. It is similar to vermicelli or angel hair pasta and is often toasted before being cooked in soups or sauces.
2. Can I use chicken breasts instead of drumsticks? Yes, you can use boneless, skinless chicken breasts if you prefer. Simply cut the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces and cook them until they are cooked through.
3. Can I make this soup ahead of time? Yes, this soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat the soup on the stove or in the microwave before serving.
4. What other toppings can I use for garnish? In addition to fresh cilantro and avocado slices, you can garnish the soup with diced onions, shredded cheese, sour cream, or a squeeze of lime juice for extra flavor.
5. Can I freeze this soup? Yes, you can freeze this soup for up to 3 months. Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. Thaw the soup in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Sopa de Fideo With Chicken is a comforting and satisfying dish that’s perfect for any day of the week. With its rich flavor, tender chicken, and hearty noodles, this soup is sure to warm you up from the inside out. Whether you’re craving a cozy weeknight dinner or looking for a comforting meal to share with family and friends, this recipe is sure to hit the spot. So gather your ingredients and get ready to enjoy a bowl of delicious homemade Sopa de Fideo!