Sprinkle the chicken generously all over with salt, pepper and the cumin. Let sit for 30 minutes at room temperature.
Heat the olive oil in a soup pot over medium-high heat. When the oil begins to swirl, add the chicken, skin-side down. Cook, undisturbed, until a peek beneath reveals a golden crust, about 5 minutes. Remove the chicken to a plate. (The goal here is to just get flavor and fat from the chicken, not cook it.)
Add the jalapeño, pearl onions and a pinch of salt to the pot. Cook, moving the veggies around, until they become golden in spots, about 4 minutes. Add the sofrito and soup base and bring to a bubble. Remove the skin from the chicken and discard. Add the chicken back to the pot and cook, stirring, for 5 minutes. Add 4 cups water and bring to a bubble again. Lower to a simmer and cook 15 minutes.
Add the noodles to the pot and cook until tender, about 3 minutes. Just before serving, add the cilantro and stir. Divide the soup among bowls, giving each a piece of chicken.
Tools You May Need
Photograph by Ralph Smith
Tools You May Need
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