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Homemade Chicken Tortilla Soup with Avocado & Lime recipe photo

Chicken Tortilla Soup with Avocado & Lime

This Chicken Tortilla Soup is SO FLAVORFUL! Tender chicken, black beans, corn, creamy avocado, and zesty lime come together in a comforting bowl.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course, Soup
Cuisine: Mexican

Ingredients
  

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 onion diced
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 bell pepper diced
  • 2 teaspoons ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 6 cups chicken broth
  • 2 cups cooked chicken shredded
  • 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
  • 1 can (15 oz) black beans rinsed and drained
  • 1 cup corn kernels fresh or frozen
  • salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 avocado diced
  • 1 lime juiced
  • fresh cilantro chopped (for garnish)
  • 2 cups tortilla strips fried or baked
  • grated cheese optional, for topping

Equipment

  • Large Pot or Dutch Oven
  • Cutting Board
  • Sharp Knife
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Measuring spoons and cups
  • Ladle
  • Bowl for serving

Method
 

  1. Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in your large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and bell pepper. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened and fragrant. Toss in the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until aromatic.
  2. Sprinkle in 2 teaspoons ground cumin and 1 teaspoon chili powder. Stir well to coat the veggies in the spices, cooking for about 1 minute to release flavors.
  3. Add 6 cups chicken broth, 1 can diced tomatoes with juice, rinsed and drained black beans, and corn kernels. Stir and bring to a simmer.
  4. Once simmering, add 2 cups cooked shredded chicken. Simmer for another 10-15 minutes to meld flavors.
  5. Season with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting as needed.
  6. Turn off heat and stir in the juice of 1 lime to brighten the soup.
  7. Ladle soup into bowls and top with diced avocado, fresh cilantro, crunchy tortilla strips, and optional grated cheese.

Notes

  • Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge up to 4 days; keep avocado and tortilla strips separate to avoid sogginess.
  • Freeze soup without avocado and tortilla strips for up to 3 months; thaw overnight before reheating.
  • For a vegetarian version, omit chicken and use vegetable broth; add extra beans or tofu for protein.
  • Make homemade tortilla strips by baking corn tortillas tossed with olive oil and salt at 375°F for 10-15 minutes.
  • Add jalapeño or hot sauce for a spicy kick or swap chicken for turkey or beef for variety.