Comforting Peruvian Chicken Soup for Cozy Nights at Home

Last Updated on February 12, 2026 by Kacper Recipes Team

As the sun dipped below the horizon, painting the sky in shades of orange and pink, I found myself longing for something warm and comforting. It was during one of those cozy evenings when the idea of a heartwarming Peruvian Chicken Soup, or Aguadito De Pollo, came rushing to my mind. This delightful dish isn t just your average soup it s a vibrant, aromatic celebration of flavors that feels like a hug in a bowl.

In just about 50 minutes, you can turn simple ingredients into a culinary experience that will have everyone asking for seconds. Picture the rich aroma of sautéed garlic and roasted poblano, mingling with the tangy notes of lime and fresh cilantro. Trust me, once you take that first spoonful, the delightful burst of warmth and zest will instantly transport you to the bustling streets of Peru, all without ever leaving your kitchen!

So, roll up your sleeves and get ready to impress yourself and your loved ones with this exquisite soup that takes the boring out of mealtime, making it a joyous occasion filled with flavor and love. Let s dive into this easy recipe that promises to revitalize your dinner routine!

Why is Peruvian Chicken Soup so comforting?

Heartwarming warmth: This Peruvian Chicken Soup provides not just a meal, but a cozy embrace on chilly nights.

Flavor explosion: With its blend of spices, vibrant peppers, and zesty lime, each bite bursts with flavor that dances on your palate.

Easy to make: In just 50 minutes, you can whip up a dish that feels gourmet, even if you re short on time.

Versatile nourishment: Packed with wholesome ingredients like chicken, potatoes, and fresh veggies, it caters to both hearty appetites and healthy diets.

Crowd-pleaser: Serve it at your next gathering, and watch your friends rave about the unique twist on a classic comfort food!

Peruvian Chicken Soup Ingredients

Discover the fresh ingredients bringing this cozy dish to life.

For the Base

• Avocado oil creates a rich, nutty flavor; swap for olive oil if preferred.
• Poblano pepper adds a mild, smoky touch; consider using bell pepper for less heat.
• White onion imparts sweetness and depth; yellow onion is a great alternative.
• Aji amarillo paste gives a vibrant color and authentic Peruvian flavor; diced serrano or jalapeño works too.
• Garlic infuses a fragrant aroma; feel free to adjust to taste.

For the Soup

• Chicken stock forms the flavorful foundation; homemade or low-sodium varieties are best.
• Shredded or diced cooked chicken brings protein and heartiness; leftover chicken works perfectly!
• Yukon gold potatoes provide creaminess; Russet potatoes can be used as a substitute.
• Carrots add sweetness and color; parsnips can also enhance the soup s flavor.
• White or brown rice absorbs the broth and adds texture; quinoa can be a nutritious switch.
• Peas for a pop of sweetness; you can use frozen peas for convenience.
• Ground cumin adds warmth and earthiness; coriander is a lovely alternative.

Finishing Touches

• Fresh cilantro leaves offer a burst of herbal freshness; parsley can be substituted if you prefer.
• Juice of 1 lime brightens and enhances flavors; lemon juice is a tasty alternative.

Optional Garnishes

• Chopped fresh cilantro leaves for an extra herbaceous touch.
• Thinly-sliced green onions add a crunchy, mild onion flavor that elevates your soup.

Ready to embrace cozy evenings with this delicious Peruvian Chicken Soup? Let s gather these ingredients and create something memorable together!

How to Make Peruvian Chicken Soup

1. Heat the oil: In a large stock pot, warm the avocado oil over medium-high heat. Toss in the diced poblano pepper and white onion, sautéing them for about 5 minutes until the onion becomes softened and translucent.

2. Sauté spices: Add the aji amarillo paste (or your choice of diced serrano or jalapeño) along with the minced garlic. Continue sautéing for 1-2 minutes until the garlic releases its fragrant aroma. Transfer this colorful mixture to a blender and allow it to cool.

3. Combine ingredients: Return your stockpot to the heat and pour in 5 cups of chicken stock. Add the cooked chicken, diced potatoes, carrots, rice, peas, and ground cumin. Gently stir everything together and bring your delightful mixture to a simmer.

4. Simmer: Reduce the heat to medium-low to maintain a low simmer. Cover the pot partially and let it cook for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender and the rice is fully cooked.

5. Blend and puree: Once the soup has cooked, add the cilantro leaves, lime juice, and the remaining 1 cup of chicken stock to your blender along with the sautéed vegetable mixture. Pureé for 1-2 minutes until the mixture turns velvety smooth.

6. Incorporate: Stir the cilantro mixture back into the simmering soup. Taste it, and season with a generous pinch (or more) of salt and black pepper to suit your palate.

7. Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and top with your choice of optional garnishes for that extra touch.

Optional: Top with extra cilantro or thinly-sliced green onions for a delightful finish.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Peruvian Chicken Soup Variations

Customize your warm and comforting soup with these enticing twists and substitutions!

• Dairy-Free: Swap chicken stock with vegetable stock for a lighter, plant-based version that still packs flavor.
• Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper for those who crave a bit more heat.
• Herb Boost: Toss in fresh basil or mint along with the cilantro for an aromatic twist that can elevate the flavor profile.
• Protein Packed: Substitute cooked chickpeas or lentils for a vegetarian option that adds protein while keeping the heartiness.
• Veggie Delight: Incorporate chopped bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach for extra nutrition and vibrant colors. The addition of leafy greens provides not just texture but also a fresh taste that complements the soup beautifully.
• Citrusy Zing: Experiment with lemon or orange juice in place of lime for a refreshing citrus burst that brightens each spoonful.
• Grain Variety: Use quinoa, farro, or barley instead of rice for a different texture and nutty flavor, making every bowl unique and satisfying.
• Thicker Soup: For a heartier consistency, mash half of the potatoes before adding them back into the pot this creates a creamy base while retaining chunks of your veggies.

Explore these variations to create your own signature bowl of Peruvian Chicken Soup, perfect for every cozy night!

What to Serve with Aguadito De Pollo?

When enjoying this vibrant Peruvian Chicken Soup, it s delightful to enhance your dining experience with complementary sides and treats.

• Crispy Corn Tortilla Chips: These chips offer a satisfying crunch, perfect for scooping up the hearty soup.

• Fresh Avocado Salad: The creaminess of avocado and the refreshing crunch of cucumbers provide a cool balance to the warm soup.

• Mango Salsa: A zesty and fruity salsa adds a splash of sweetness and brightness, perfectly contrasting the flavors of the soup.

• Cilantro Lime Rice: This fragrant side dish mirrors the soup s fresh cilantro and lime notes, creating a cohesive meal experience.

• Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Sweet, caramelized edges bring warmth and natural sweetness that pairs beautifully with the soup s savory elements.

• Chicha Morada: A traditional Peruvian purple corn drink that brings delightful sweetness and tartness, making it a fun addition to your meal.

• Flan: This creamy caramel dessert provides a delightful ending, offering a sweet note to balance the zesty flavors of Aguadito De Pollo.

• Dulce de Leche Brownies: Rich and indulgent, these brownies will satisfy your sweet tooth, rounding off your comforting dinner with a touch of decadence.

Make Ahead Options

These comforting Peruvian Chicken Soup bowls are absolutely perfect for meal prep! You can chop and sauté the vegetables (poblano pepper, onion, and garlic) up to 24 hours in advance, storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain their freshness. Additionally, you can cook the chicken and prepare the stock base up to 3 days ahead, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. When you re ready to serve, simply reheat the sautéed mixture in your pot, add the remaining chicken stock, potatoes, rice, and peas, and simmer for a cozy meal. This way, you ll save time on busy nights while still enjoying a deliciously warm and hearty dish just as tasty as when freshly made!

Storage Tips for Peruvian Chicken Soup

Fridge: Store your Peruvian Chicken Soup in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the refrigerator to maintain its flavor and freshness.

Freezer: This soup freezes beautifully! Transfer to freezer-safe containers and enjoy it for up to 3 months. Avoid adding rice if you plan to freeze it for better texture.

Reheating: Thaw overnight in the fridge if frozen. Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through. Add a splash of chicken stock if it thickens.

Leftover Storage: Keep any leftover garnishes separate to prevent sogginess when storing the soup. Enjoy your comforting bowl filled with warmth!

Expert Tips for Peruvian Chicken Soup

• Ingredient Substitutions: If you can t find aji amarillo paste, diced serrano or jalapeño peppers still bring that spicy kick to your Peruvian Chicken Soup.

• Perfect Texture: Make sure to cut your potatoes and carrots into even-sized pieces to ensure they cook uniformly and become fork-tender at the same time.

• Don t Rush the Sauté: Take your time sautéing the onions and peppers. This step builds a flavorful base that is crucial to the soup s depth.

• Blending Secrets: Allow the sautéed mixture to cool slightly before blending it prevents steaming and ensures a smoother consistency in your soup.

• Storage Tips: If you have leftovers, store the soup without garnishes and separately from the rice to help maintain texture when reheating.

Peruvian Chicken Soup Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the best poblano pepper for this recipe?
To select a great poblano pepper, look for ones that are firm and glossy with a deep green color. Avoid those with dark spots or wrinkles, as they may be overripe. A fresh poblano should feel heavy for its size and have a slightly sweet aroma.

How should I store leftover Peruvian Chicken Soup?
Store your soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To preserve the flavors, I recommend keeping any garnishes separate until you re ready to serve. If you notice a change in texture or aroma, it s best to discard the soup.

Can I freeze Peruvian Chicken Soup, and how should I do it?
Absolutely! This soup freezes beautifully. To freeze, allow it to cool completely, then pour it into freezer-safe containers, leaving some space for expansion. You can freeze it for up to 3 months. I suggest leaving out the rice before freezing, as it can become mushy when reheated.

What should I do if my soup is too thick when reheating?
If your soup thickens too much during storage, simply add a bit of chicken stock or water when reheating. Heat it on the stovetop over low heat, stirring gently until it reaches your desired consistency. The right amount of liquid will bring the soup back to its velvety texture.

Is this recipe suitable for those with dietary restrictions?
Yes! You can easily adapt this Peruvian Chicken Soup to meet various dietary needs. For gluten-free options, ensure that your chicken stock is gluten-free. Vegans can substitute chicken with chickpeas or tofu and use vegetable stock instead. Always check for potential allergens based on personal preferences and dietary requirements.

Can I make this soup in advance for a gathering?
Definitely! Preparing this soup the day before can deepen its flavors as it sits. Just store it in the fridge, and when you re ready to serve, gently reheat it on the stove, adding a bit of extra broth if needed to restore consistency. Your guests will appreciate the rich taste, freshly garnished with cilantro just before serving!