Sopa de Fideo with Chicken 🍲🐓 – A Mexican Comfort Classic
When it comes to true comfort food, Sopa de Fideo with Chicken has a special place in Mexican kitchens. This beloved dish combines toasted vermicelli-style noodles (fideo) with a simple tomato-based broth and tender chicken drumsticks. The result is a soul-soothing, hearty soup that’s perfect for chilly evenings, quick weeknight dinners, or whenever you’re craving something warm and nourishing.
What makes this dish extra special is the step of toasting the fideo noodles, which deepens their flavor and adds a nutty, roasted taste that sets the soup apart. Combined with savory chicken and a rich broth, every spoonful feels like a hug in a bowl.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe ❤️
- Simple ingredients, bold flavor – Everyday staples come together to make something truly comforting.
- One-pot meal – Chicken, pasta, and broth all cook together for minimal cleanup.
- Quick and cozy – Ready in under 45 minutes, perfect for family dinners.
- Customizable – Add veggies, spice, or toppings to make it your own.
Ingredients 🛒
For the Soup:
- 4 tablespoons cooking oil, divided
- 6 chicken drumsticks, thawed, skin on
- Salt, to season chicken
- 1 (7-ounce) bag dry fideo noodles
- 6 cups warm water
- 3 tablespoons tomato paste
- 2 teaspoons garlic salt
- 1 teaspoon chicken bouillon (Knorr)
Optional garnishes:
- Chopped cilantro 🌿
- Fresh lime juice 🍋
- Sliced avocado 🥑
Step-by-Step Instructions 👩🍳
Step 1: Cook the Chicken
- Heat 2 tablespoons of cooking oil in a 3-quart (10-inch) pot over medium-low heat.
- Season the chicken drumsticks with salt and add them to the pan.
- Cook for 7–8 minutes, turning occasionally, until the skin is crisping. (The chicken won’t be fully cooked yet.)
- Remove the drumsticks and set aside.
Step 2: Toast the Fideo Noodles
- In the same pot, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of cooking oil.
- On medium-low heat, add the fideo noodles.
- Stir constantly and toast until the noodles turn a light golden brown—about 6–8 minutes.
Step 3: Prepare the Broth
- Once noodles are toasted, pour in 6 cups of warm water.
- Stir in:
- 3 tablespoons tomato paste
- 2 teaspoons garlic salt
- 1 teaspoon chicken bouillon
- Mix well until the tomato paste and seasonings are fully dissolved.
- Bring the soup to a gentle simmer.
Step 4: Combine and Simmer
- Return the chicken drumsticks to the pot, nestling them into the broth.
- Cover the pot and let the soup simmer on low heat for 10 minutes.
Step 5: Rest and Serve
- Turn off the heat and allow the soup to rest for 10–15 minutes. This ensures the chicken cooks fully and the flavors meld.
- Ladle into bowls and garnish with:
- Fresh cilantro
- A squeeze of lime juice
- Sliced avocado
Expert Tips & Variations 🌟
- Make it spicier 🌶️ – Blend in a roasted serrano or jalapeño with the tomato paste for extra heat.
- Use broth instead of water – Swap the water for chicken broth to deepen the flavor.
- Add veggies 🥕 – Diced carrots, zucchini, or peas are traditional and make it heartier.
- Different cuts of chicken – Drumsticks are classic, but thighs or breast pieces work well too.
Important Notes 📌
- Keep stirring the fideo while toasting—it burns easily.
- Resting the soup after simmering allows the noodles to soften without overcooking.
- Adjust seasoning with extra bouillon or salt at the end to taste.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approx. 1/6 of recipe) 📊
- Calories: 350
- Protein: 22g
- Fat: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Sodium: 780mg
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) ❓
1. Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes! Store in the fridge for up to 3 days. The noodles will absorb liquid, so add a splash of water or broth when reheating.
2. Can I freeze Sopa de Fideo with Chicken?
It’s best enjoyed fresh. If freezing, cook the soup without the noodles, then add freshly toasted noodles when reheating.
3. Can I make this vegetarian?
Yes! Skip the chicken and use vegetable bouillon instead of chicken bouillon. Add extra veggies for heartiness.
4. What if I don’t have fideo noodles?
You can substitute with angel hair pasta broken into small pieces—it’s a traditional swap.
5. How do I make it more authentic?
Blend fresh roasted tomatoes, onion, and garlic into a smooth sauce instead of using tomato paste. Fry this sauce with the toasted noodles before adding water.
✨ Simple, cozy, and full of flavor, Sopa de Fideo with Chicken is one of those timeless recipes that feels like home in every bite. Serve it with warm tortillas or a side of beans, and you’ve got a complete, heartwarming meal.