This Chicken Avocado Soup is a refreshing and nutritious meal that combines tender chicken with creamy avocado, fresh cilantro, and a hint of lime. It’s the perfect balance of light and hearty, making it a go-to soup whether you’re craving something cozy in the winter or a refreshing meal in the summer. The flavors are simple yet vibrant, and the soup comes together quickly, making it a great option for a weeknight dinner or a healthy meal prep idea.
Chicken Avocado Soup
I love making this soup because it’s so versatile and flavorful. The chicken adds heartiness, while the avocado gives the broth a creamy richness without the need for heavy cream. Fresh lime juice and cilantro brighten the dish, creating a refreshing, zesty contrast to the warm chicken broth. It’s also easy to customize—you can make it spicier with jalapeños or bulk it up with rice or beans.
This soup is delicious served with a side of Homemade Hamburger Gyros with Peppers and Onions or paired with Cabbage Soup Recipe for a comforting meal that’s both healthy and filling.
Why You’ll Love This Chicken Avocado Soup Recipe
- Light and Fresh: The combination of avocado and lime juice makes this soup feel light and refreshing, while the chicken keeps it hearty.
- Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, this soup is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a quick lunch.
- Full of Flavor: With fresh cilantro, lime, and tender chicken, every spoonful is packed with vibrant, delicious flavors.
- Customizable: You can easily add rice, beans, or extra veggies to this soup to make it even heartier.
Main Ingredients for Chicken Avocado Soup
- Chicken Breast – Boneless, skinless chicken breast adds protein and heartiness to the soup. You can also use rotisserie chicken for convenience.
- Avocados – The creamy texture of avocado gives the soup a rich, velvety feel without the need for cream.
- Chicken Broth – A flavorful broth provides the base for the soup. You can use homemade or store-bought chicken broth.
- Cilantro – Fresh cilantro adds a burst of brightness and freshness to the soup.
- Lime Juice – Lime juice brings a tangy acidity that complements the richness of the avocado and chicken.
- Garlic and Onion – These aromatics form the flavor base of the soup, adding depth and warmth.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Chicken Avocado Soup Recipe
Here’s how to make this flavorful chicken avocado soup step by step:
- Cook the Chicken: In a large pot, bring 6 cups of chicken broth to a boil. Add 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, reduce the heat to low, and simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through. Remove the chicken from the pot and shred it with two forks.
- Tip: You can use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken to save time. Just shred it and add it to the soup during the last few minutes of cooking.
- Sauté the Aromatics: In a separate pan, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add 1 small diced onion and 2 minced garlic cloves. Sauté until the onion is soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Pro Tip: For a little heat, add a chopped jalapeño or a pinch of red pepper flakes while sautéing the onions and garlic.
- Combine Broth and Aromatics: Once the onions and garlic are soft, add them to the pot with the chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and season with salt, pepper, and 1 teaspoon of cumin for warmth and depth of flavor.
- Add the Shredded Chicken: Stir the shredded chicken back into the pot and let it simmer for another 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Variation: You can add cooked rice or beans at this stage for a more filling soup.
- Prepare the Avocado and Garnishes: While the soup simmers, dice 2 ripe avocados and chop a handful of fresh cilantro. Cut 2 limes into wedges for serving.
- Tip: For added creaminess, you can mash one of the avocados and stir it directly into the soup.
- Serve: Ladle the hot soup into bowls, top with diced avocado, fresh cilantro, and a squeeze of lime juice. For extra flavor, you can garnish with thinly sliced jalapeños, tortilla strips, or a dollop of sour cream.
- Serving Idea: This soup pairs wonderfully with warm tortillas or a slice of crusty bread, and it’s perfect for a light lunch or dinner.
Extra Tips and Variations
- Make it Spicy: If you like a little heat, add diced jalapeños, crushed red pepper flakes, or even a dash of hot sauce.
- How to Store: Leftover soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Be sure to add the avocado fresh when reheating, as it may brown if stored with the soup.
- How to Freeze: Freeze the soup without the avocado for up to 3 months. When ready to serve, thaw and reheat, then add the fresh avocado and lime.
Health Benefits of Chicken Avocado Soup
This soup is not only flavorful but also packed with nutrients. Chicken is an excellent source of lean protein, while avocados are rich in healthy fats and provide vitamins C, E, and K. The lime juice and cilantro add antioxidants, and the broth is hydrating and nourishing, making this a well-rounded, healthy meal.
- High in Protein: The chicken in this soup provides a significant source of protein, which helps keep you full and supports muscle repair.
- Rich in Healthy Fats: Avocados are full of heart-healthy monounsaturated fats that can help lower cholesterol levels and support brain health.
- Vitamin-Rich: The fresh ingredients in this soup, like avocado, lime, and cilantro, offer vitamins and antioxidants that support immune health and overall wellness.
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