There’s something incredibly comforting about a warm bowl of Mexican Chicken Lime Soup, also known as Sopa de Lima in Mexico. This dish is packed with bold, zesty flavors and a touch of spice, making it the perfect meal for chilly evenings, when you’re feeling under the weather, or when you just want a light yet satisfying soup.

Originating from the Yucatán Peninsula, Sopa de Lima is a staple in Mexican cuisine. Unlike traditional chicken soups, this version is infused with fresh lime juice, aromatic spices, and a subtle heat from jalapeños or other chilies. The combination of citrus and savory broth creates a beautifully balanced soup that’s refreshing yet deeply comforting.

Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner, a meal-prep-friendly soup, or something to warm your soul, this recipe is a must-try. Serve it with crispy tortilla strips, fresh cilantro, and creamy avocado for a restaurant-quality dish right at home!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bright and Fresh Flavors – The lime juice gives the broth a zesty kick, making it unique from other chicken soups.
• Healthy and Light – Packed with lean protein and fresh ingredients, this soup is nutritious and satisfying.
• Easy to Make – With just a handful of ingredients and simple steps, you can have a comforting homemade soup in no time.
• Great for Meal Prep – It stores well in the fridge and tastes even better the next day!

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Soup:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 jalapeño, seeded and diced
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 6 cups chicken broth
• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 large tomato, diced
• ½ teaspoon salt (or to taste)
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• 3 limes, juiced
• 1 bay leaf

For Toppings (Optional but Recommended!):

• 1 avocado, sliced
• ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1 lime, cut into wedges
• 1 cup tortilla strips (store-bought or homemade)
• ¼ cup red onion, thinly sliced

How to Make Mexican Chicken Lime Soup

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once hot, add the diced onion and cook for about 3 minutes until it becomes soft and translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and diced jalapeño, letting them cook for another minute until fragrant.

Step 2: Build the Flavorful Broth

Sprinkle in the cumin and oregano, stirring to coat the aromatics in those warm, earthy spices. Pour in the chicken broth and add the bay leaf, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Carefully place the chicken breasts into the simmering broth. Cover the pot and let them cook for about 20 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.

Step 4: Shred the Chicken

Once the chicken is cooked through, remove it from the pot and place it on a cutting board. Use two forks to shred it into bite-sized pieces. Discard the bay leaf from the soup.

Step 5: Add Tomatoes and Lime Juice

Return the shredded chicken to the pot and add the diced tomato. Let everything simmer for another 5 minutes so the flavors meld together. Then, turn off the heat and stir in the freshly squeezed lime juice.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!

Ladle the soup into bowls and top with sliced avocado, fresh cilantro, and crunchy tortilla strips. Serve with extra lime wedges on the side for an extra citrusy punch. Enjoy this heartwarming dish with a side of warm corn tortillas or a simple salad!

Helpful Tips

• Use Rotisserie Chicken for Convenience – If you’re short on time, swap out raw chicken breasts for pre-cooked rotisserie chicken. Just shred it and add it toward the end of cooking.
• Make It Spicier – If you love heat, add an extra jalapeño or a pinch of cayenne pepper to amp up the spice level.
• Homemade Tortilla Strips – Cut corn tortillas into thin strips, lightly fry them in oil, and sprinkle with a little salt for the perfect crispy topping.
• Add More Veggies – Bell peppers, zucchini, or corn can be great additions if you want a heartier soup.
• Let It Rest – This soup tastes even better after sitting for a bit, allowing the flavors to deepen.

Recipe Details

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings
• Category: Soup
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Mexican
• Diet: Gluten-Free

Notes

• If storing leftovers, keep the toppings separate so they stay fresh.
• Adjust lime juice to taste—some prefer a more pronounced citrus flavor!
• This soup can be easily doubled for a larger batch.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: ~250
• Protein: 30g
• Carbohydrates: 15g
• Fat: 8g
• Fiber: 4g
• Sodium: 600mg

Note: Nutritional values are approximate and may vary based on exact ingredients used.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?

Yes! Simply add all the soup ingredients (except the lime juice) to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6 hours or high for 3 hours. Shred the chicken, return it to the pot, stir in the lime juice, and serve.

How can I store and reheat leftovers?

Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, warm it over low heat on the stovetop or microwave in 30-second intervals until heated through.

Can I freeze this soup?

Yes! This soup freezes well without the toppings. Let it cool completely, then store it in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

What can I serve with this soup?

Pair it with warm tortillas, a simple avocado salad, or a side of Mexican rice for a more filling meal.

Related Recipes

If you loved this Mexican Chicken Lime Soup, here are some other cozy, flavor-packed recipes to try:

• Crockpot Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup: A Cozy Comfort Food
• Slow Cooker Mexican Street Corn Soup
• Mexican Street Corn Soup
• Chicken Enchilada Soup

Conclusion

Mexican Chicken Lime Soup is the perfect blend of warmth, brightness, and comfort. Whether you’re making it for a cozy night in or to soothe a sore throat, this soup is guaranteed to be a favorite. The combination of tangy lime, tender chicken, and flavorful broth makes every spoonful a delight. Try it once, and you’ll find yourself craving it again and again!

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