Introduction:
This Fideo con Pollo recipe is a classic Mexican dish that combines tender chicken with fideo noodles, simmered in a flavorful tomato broth. With its rich and comforting flavors, it’s a go-to meal for chilly days or whenever you’re craving something hearty and satisfying. The combination of spices like cumin, paprika, and chili powder gives the dish its depth, while the tomato sauce provides a subtle tang. Whether you’re familiar with Mexican cuisine or looking to try something new, this dish will quickly become a favorite at your table.
Ingredients:
- 4 chicken drumsticks or thighs
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- 1/2 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 7 oz fideo pasta (or vermicelli noodles)
- 2 cups tomato sauce
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro (optional for garnish)
Preparation:
Step 1: Season the chicken
Start by seasoning the chicken with salt, pepper, cumin, paprika, and chili powder. This will enhance the flavor of the chicken as it cooks.
Step 2: Sear the chicken
In a large pot or skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the chicken drumsticks or thighs and sear them for 5-7 minutes on each side until browned. Once browned, remove the chicken from the pot and set it aside.
Step 3: Sauté the onions and garlic
In the same pot, add the chopped onions and sauté them until softened, about 3 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
Step 4: Toast the noodles
Add the fideo pasta (or vermicelli noodles) to the pot with the onions and garlic. Stir constantly, toasting the noodles until they turn golden brown. This step adds a rich, nutty flavor to the dish.
Step 5: Add the tomato sauce
Pour in the tomato sauce and stir, cooking for 2 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Step 6: Simmer with chicken and broth
Return the seared chicken to the pot and pour in the chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then cover the pot and cook for 25-30 minutes. During this time, the chicken will become tender and the noodles will absorb the rich flavors of the broth.
Step 7: Adjust seasoning and serve
After the cooking time, taste the broth and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper if needed. Garnish with fresh cilantro for a pop of freshness, and serve the stew hot.
COOKING Note
- You can use chicken thighs instead of drumsticks for a juicier texture.
- For a spicier version, add an extra pinch of chili powder or a sliced jalapeño to the broth.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Fideo con Pollo with warm tortillas or a side of Mexican rice for a complete meal. You can also add a squeeze of lime for added brightness.
Tips
- Make sure to brown the chicken well for a deeper flavor in the broth.
- If you can’t find fideo pasta, you can use vermicelli noodles or even break up spaghetti into smaller pieces as a substitute.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
- Calories: 350
- Protein: 25g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Sugars: 6g
Conclusion
Fideo con Pollo is a flavorful and hearty dish that’s perfect for family dinners or a cozy night in. The combination of tender chicken, toasted noodles, and a tomato-infused broth creates a satisfying meal that’s simple to make but rich in flavor. Whether you’re new to Mexican cuisine or a seasoned fan, this dish is sure to warm both your body and soul.
FAQ
Q: Can I use a different type of noodle?
A: Yes! Vermicelli or angel hair pasta can be used if fideo pasta isn’t available. Just break them into small pieces.
Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A: Yes, this stew can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat it on the stove or in the microwave before serving.
Q: What can I serve with Fideo con Pollo?
A: It pairs well with warm tortillas, rice, or even a fresh green salad for a lighter side.
Authentic Fideo con Pollo – Mexican Chicken & Noodle Stew Recipe
Ingredients
- 4 chicken drumsticks or thighs
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- 1/2 onion chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 7 oz fideo pasta or vermicelli noodles
- 2 cups tomato sauce
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro optional for garnish
Instructions
Step 1: Season the chicken
- Start by seasoning the chicken with salt, pepper, cumin, paprika, and chili powder. This will enhance the flavor of the chicken as it cooks.
Step 2: Sear the chicken
- In a large pot or skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the chicken drumsticks or thighs and sear them for 5-7 minutes on each side until browned. Once browned, remove the chicken from the pot and set it aside.
Step 3: Sauté the onions and garlic
- In the same pot, add the chopped onions and sauté them until softened, about 3 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
Step 4: Toast the noodles
- Add the fideo pasta (or vermicelli noodles) to the pot with the onions and garlic. Stir constantly, toasting the noodles until they turn golden brown. This step adds a rich, nutty flavor to the dish.
Step 5: Add the tomato sauce
- Pour in the tomato sauce and stir, cooking for 2 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Step 6: Simmer with chicken and broth
- Return the seared chicken to the pot and pour in the chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then cover the pot and cook for 25-30 minutes. During this time, the chicken will become tender and the noodles will absorb the rich flavors of the broth.
Step 7: Adjust seasoning and serve
- After the cooking time, taste the broth and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper if needed. Garnish with fresh cilantro for a pop of freshness, and serve the stew hot.
Notes
- You can use chicken thighs instead of drumsticks for a juicier texture.
- For a spicier version, add an extra pinch of chili powder or a sliced jalapeño to the broth.
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