Fideo con pollo

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 4
Difficulty: Easy

Introduction

Fideo con Pollo is a beloved Mexican comfort food featuring thin vermicelli noodles (fideo) cooked in a rich tomato-based broth with tender chicken pieces. It’s a simple yet flavorful dish that combines savory, tangy, and slightly spicy notes, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or cozy family meals. The noodles absorb the tomato broth beautifully, creating a satisfying and hearty one-pot dish.

Ingredients

• 2 tbsp vegetable oil or olive oil

• 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces

• 1 cup fideo noodles (thin vermicelli or broken spaghetti)

• 1 medium onion, finely chopped

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 2 large tomatoes, chopped (or 1 cup canned tomato puree)

• 3 cups chicken broth or stock

• 1/2 tsp ground cumin

• 1/2 tsp chili powder (optional, for mild heat)

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

• Lime wedges (for serving)

Equipment Needed

• Large skillet or saucepan with lid

• Wooden spoon or spatula

• Knife and cutting board

Instructions

Step 1: Toast the Noodles

1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or saucepan over medium heat.

2. Add the fideo noodles and toast, stirring frequently, until golden brown and fragrant (about 3–5 minutes). Be careful not to burn them.

3. Remove toasted noodles from the pan and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

1. In the same skillet, add the chicken pieces. Season with salt and pepper.

2. Cook until browned on all sides and mostly cooked through (about 5–7 minutes). Remove chicken and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté Onion and Garlic

1. Add chopped onion to the skillet and sauté until softened and translucent (about 3 minutes).

2. Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds more, until fragrant.

Step 4: Add Tomatoes and Spices

1. Stir in chopped tomatoes or tomato puree. Cook for 5 minutes until the tomatoes break down and the mixture thickens slightly.

2. Add cumin, chili powder (if using), and season with salt and pepper.

Step 5: Combine and Simmer

1. Return chicken and toasted noodles to the skillet.

2. Pour in chicken broth and stir to combine.

3. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for about 10–15 minutes, or until noodles are tender and the chicken is fully cooked.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

1. Remove from heat and fluff noodles gently with a fork.

2. Sprinkle chopped fresh cilantro over the top.

3. Serve with lime wedges on the side for a bright, fresh touch.

Tips & Variations

• Noodle Alternatives: If you can’t find fideo, broken spaghetti or angel hair pasta works well.

• Add Veggies: Stir in diced bell peppers, peas, or corn for extra color and nutrition.

• Spice it Up: Add chopped jalapeño or a dash of cayenne pepper for more heat.

• Broth Boost: Use homemade chicken broth for richer flavor.

• Cheese Topping: Sprinkle with crumbled queso fresco or shredded Monterey Jack cheese before serving.

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Nutrition Information (per serving, approx.)