Caribbean Chicken Soup from Pollo Tropical features tender chicken, hearty vegetables, and vibrant island spices simmered together to create a flavorful, comforting broth with colorful chunks of carrot, corn, and green beans.
Equipments
- Large stock pot
- Cutting board
- Chef’s knife
- Wooden spoon or ladle
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
- Peeler (for carrots)
- Tongs
- Skimmer or slotted spoon
- Mixing bowls
Ingredients
- 2 lbs (900g) bone-in chicken pieces
- 8 cups (2L) chicken broth
- 2 medium carrots
- 2 ears corn
- 1 cup green beans
- 2 medium potatoes
- 1 medium onion
- 3 cloves garlic
- 2 stalks celery
- 1 small red bell pepper
- 1 small green bell pepper
- 1 Scotch bonnet pepper (optional)
- 2 sprigs fresh thyme
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 teaspoon ground allspice
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon ground turmeric
- 1 lime
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- Salt
Bone-in chicken pieces are essential for a rich, flavorful broth that captures the essence of Caribbean Chicken Soup. Fresh vegetables such as carrots, corn, green beans, and bell peppers contribute vibrant color and texture while enhancing the soup's island-inspired flavor. The Scotch bonnet pepper adds authentic heat but can be omitted if you prefer a milder taste. Using fresh herbs like thyme and bay leaf combined with ground allspice, oregano, black pepper, and turmeric creates a well-balanced, aromatic base. For your convenience, this Caribbean Chicken Soup from Pollo Tropical copycat recipe mirrors the restaurant's signature comforting and vibrant island flavors.
Instructions
- Prepare chicken by rinsing and patting dry.
- Peel and dice carrots and potatoes.
- Shuck corn, then cut into rounds.
- Trim and cut green beans into 1-inch pieces.
- Dice onion, celery, and bell peppers.
- Mince garlic.
- Halve and deseed Scotch bonnet pepper (optional, use gloves).
- Juice lime, set aside juice.
- Heat stock pot over medium heat; add vegetable oil.
- Add chicken; brown lightly on all sides using tongs.
- Add onion, celery, garlic, and bell peppers; sauté until softened.
- Add carrots, potatoes, green beans, and corn.
- Stir in thyme, bay leaf, allspice, oregano, black pepper, turmeric, and Scotch bonnet (if using).
- Pour in chicken broth; bring to a simmer.
- Skim foam or impurities with skimmer or slotted spoon.
- Reduce heat; simmer uncovered 30–40 minutes, or until chicken and vegetables are tender.
- Remove chicken with tongs; cool slightly.
- Shred chicken, discarding bones and skin; return meat to pot.
- Add lime juice and salt to taste.
- Stir, taste, and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Remove bay leaf and thyme sprigs.
- Serve hot, garnished as desired.
Substitution
Caribbean Chicken Soup from Pollo Tropical copycat menu combines tender bone-in chicken with an aromatic blend of island spices and hearty vegetables like carrots, corn, and green beans to create a rich, comforting broth. If you don't have Scotch bonnet peppers, you can substitute with a milder chili or omit it to control heat while preserving flavor. When fresh thyme is unavailable, dried thyme can be used, but reduce the amount to prevent overpowering the soup. For a quicker preparation, boneless chicken thighs or breasts can replace bone-in pieces, though simmering time may need adjustment to maintain tenderness. Your choice of vegetables can be flexible based on what's available, making this soup versatile for any kitchen pantry.
Tips
Ensure you rinse and pat the chicken dry before browning to achieve a flavorful crust without steaming. When handling the Scotch bonnet pepper, always wear gloves to avoid skin irritation and avoid touching your eyes. Skim the foam or impurities from the broth surface with a slotted spoon to keep the soup clear and enhance the flavor. Remember to taste and adjust the seasoning after adding lime juice for the perfect balance in your Caribbean Chicken Soup.
Nutritions
Caribbean Chicken Soup from Pollo Tropical offers a nutritious mix of lean protein from chicken and essential vitamins from fresh vegetables like carrots, corn, and green beans. This soup provides a good source of vitamins A and C, potassium, and fiber, supporting immune health and digestion. The use of turmeric and allspice adds anti-inflammatory benefits, while the lime juice boosts antioxidant content. Your meal delivers a balanced combination of protein, vitamins, and minerals, making it both flavorful and nourishing.
Storage
Store Caribbean Chicken Soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days to maintain freshness and flavor. For longer storage, freeze the soup in portioned containers, leaving space at the top for expansion, and consume within 3 months. When reheating, gently warm on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally to preserve your soup's vibrant spices and tender vegetables.
Variation or Alternatives
You can swap bone-in chicken pieces with boneless, skinless chicken thighs for a quicker cooking time and easier shredding. Substitute fresh thyme with dried thyme, adjusting quantity to 1 teaspoon since dried herbs are more concentrated. Use frozen mixed vegetables if fresh carrots, corn, or green beans are unavailable; just add them later in the cooking process to prevent over-softening. Try roasting the vegetables before adding to the pot to deepen their flavor and enhance the soup's overall richness.
Allergies
Caribbean Chicken Soup from Pollo Tropical contains common allergens such as chicken and garlic, which may trigger reactions in sensitive individuals. The inclusion of celery and bell peppers can also cause allergic responses in some people. Ensure you review all ingredients carefully to avoid allergens that may affect your dietary needs.
Why this recipe?
People love the Caribbean Chicken Soup from Pollo Tropical for its vibrant blend of tropical spices, tender chicken, and fresh vegetables that deliver a rich and comforting flavor profile. The soup's unique combination of seasonings like cumin, garlic, and cilantro creates an authentic Caribbean taste that appeals to those seeking bold and nutritious meals. Your attempt to make a copycat version is worth it because it allows you to enjoy a homemade, flavorful dish with the same warmth and depth without relying on restaurant availability. Recreating this soup lets you customize ingredients to suit your preferences while capturing the essence of a beloved Caribbean classic.