Chili Lime Chicken Soup

Name: Chili Lime Chicken Soup
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 onion, chopped; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 1 red bell pepper, diced; 4 cups chicken broth; 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed; 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen); Juice of 2 limes; Salt and pepper to taste; 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped; Avocado and tortilla strips for serving

Highlighted under: Simple Meal Recipes

I absolutely love making Chili Lime Chicken Soup, especially on cooler days when I crave something comforting yet zesty. The combination of tender chicken, vibrant green cilantro, and a kick of lime creates a deliciously refreshing soup that brightens my spirits. I often enjoy it paired with crispy tortilla strips and avocado, adding a satisfying crunch and creaminess. It's a simple recipe that not only nourishes but also warms the soul — perfect for cozy family dinners or a quick weeknight meal.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-20T11:54:27.827Z

Making this soup has become a delightful tradition in my kitchen, especially when I want to impress guests with something that seems complex but is actually quite simple to prepare. I remember the first time I added lime to the broth; it transformed the entire dish and brought out the flavors beautifully. The aroma that fills my home is simply irresistible!

One tip I always share is to add the lime juice just before serving to keep the soup vibrant and fresh. I'll often squeeze in some extra lime for an even bolder flavor. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you for it!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Zesty lime flavor that brightens every spoonful
Tender chicken and fresh veggies for a hearty meal
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights

      

The Heart of the Soup: Chicken and Broth

The chicken breast serves as the primary protein in this soup, providing lean meat that absorbs the zesty lime flavor beautifully. To ensure the chicken is tender and juicy, avoid overcooking it; a cooking time of around 15 minutes in the broth is ideal. The broth should be gently simmering — look for small bubbles forming on the surface rather than a rolling boil, which can lead to tough meat.

Chicken broth is essential for creating the soup’s base, infusing it with rich, savory undertones. Opt for low-sodium broth to better control the saltiness, especially since you'll be adding lime juice and seasoning later. If you prefer a richer flavor, you can use homemade broth, which allows you to tailor the taste using herbs and spices that complement the dish.

Balancing Flavors and Textures

The vibrant lime juice is not just a garnish; it plays a crucial role in balancing the soup's flavors. Fresh lime juice brightens the dish, adding acidity that cuts through the richness of the chicken and beans. If lime isn’t available, you can substitute it with lemon juice for a similar effect, albeit with a slightly different flavor profile. Just remember to adjust the quantity to taste because lemons tend to be less tart.

Fresh cilantro adds a refreshing herbaceous quality that ties the flavors together. Make sure to chop the cilantro coarsely, as this allows its aroma and taste to be more pronounced in the soup. If cilantro isn't your favorite, fresh parsley can be an alternative, although it won't provide the same authenticity. Adding avocado and crispy tortilla strips as toppings not only enhances texture — with creamy vs. crunchy — but also adds a healthy dose of fats.

Ingredients

For the Soup

1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 onion, chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 red bell pepper, diced
4 cups chicken broth
1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
Juice of 2 limes
Salt and pepper to taste
1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
Avocado and tortilla strips for serving

Instructions

Cook the Chicken

In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion, garlic, and red bell pepper, and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the chicken breasts to the pot, followed by the chicken broth, and bring to a simmer.

Shred the Chicken

Once the chicken is cooked through (about 15 minutes), remove it from the pot and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the pot.

Add Remaining Ingredients

Stir in the black beans, corn, and lime juice. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Let the soup simmer for another 10 minutes to blend the flavors.

Serve

Serve the soup hot, garnished with fresh cilantro, avocado, and crispy tortilla strips.

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding a pinch of chili powder or cumin during cooking. This will give your soup a bit more depth and warmth!

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This Chili Lime Chicken Soup is perfect for meal prep! You can make a large batch and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors actually improve as they meld together over time. If you want to prepare it for later, this soup can also be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw the soup in the refrigerator overnight and warm it on the stove over medium heat until heated through.

When storing, consider keeping the toppings separate until you're ready to serve to maintain their freshness. Avocado may brown if added to the soup beforehand, and tortilla strips can lose their crispiness. Instead, prepare these toppings fresh before enjoying your dish for the ultimate texture experience.

Adjusting Spice Levels

For those who enjoy a little heat, consider adding diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to the mixture. Start with a small amount, as those spices can compound quickly in flavor. Let the soup simmer for a few extra minutes to incorporate the heat evenly before serving. If you find it too spicy, a dollop of sour cream or a wedge of lime can help to cool it down in individual bowls.

On the other hand, if you’re cooking for kids or those sensitive to spice, you can adjust the recipe by omitting peppers altogether and focusing on the zesty lime and freshness of the vegetables. This soup still shines with its vibrant flavors even without the heat added.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen chicken?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts. Just extend the cooking time until they are fully cooked.

→ Is this soup spicy?

This recipe is mild, but you can add crushed red pepper flakes for a kick!

→ Can I make this soup vegetarian?

Absolutely! Just omit the chicken and use vegetable broth, and replace the chicken with additional beans or lentils.

→ How long can I store leftovers?

Leftover soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.