There’s nothing quite like the comforting embrace of a warm bowl of Chicken Tortilla Soup to brighten up any day. The moment I chopped the vibrant bell peppers and tossed them into the pan, their colors danced under the kitchen light, and the enticing aroma filled the air, transporting me to sun-soaked streets of Mexico. This recipe, reminiscent of vibrant street markets, is my go-to when cravings for homemade flavors strike.
Each spoonful offers an explosion of taste, with the zing of fresh lime and the warmth of spices harmonizing beautifully. Perfect for a cozy night in or casual gatherings with friends, this soup is not only nourishing but incredibly simple to make. If you’re ready to trade fast food for something vibrant and satisfying, grab your ingredients and let’s turn this into your new favorite weeknight dish!
Why is Sopa de Lima a Must-Try?
Bold flavors: The vibrant blend of lime, jalapeño, and spices takes your taste buds on a delightful journey.
Comfort food: This soup wraps you in warmth, making it perfect for chilly evenings.
Simple steps: With basic ingredients and easy instructions, you’ll impress your family without a fuss.
Crowd-pleaser: Whether for a dinner party or cozy night in, this dish never fails to satisfy.
Customizable: Add your favorite toppings like avocado and tortilla chips for a personal touch!
Elevate your cooking skills with this nourishing rendition of traditional Mexican flavors—say goodbye to fast food and hello to homemade comfort!
Sopa de Lima Ingredients
For the Soup Base
• Extra virgin olive oil – adds richness and depth to the broth.
• White onion – brings sweetness and aroma when sautéed.
• Green bell peppers – introduces a fresh, crunchy texture.
• Jalapeño – gives a zesty kick; adjust the amount for spice preference.
• Garlic cloves – enhances the flavor with aromatic goodness.
• Kosher salt – elevates all the natural flavors of the soup.
• Black pepper – adds warmth and a hint of spice.
For the Broth
• Fire roasted tomatoes – infuse smoky sweetness for a flavorful base.
• Chicken broth – delivers savory depth; homemade or store-bought works great!
• Dried oregano – complements the other ingredients with a herbal note.
• Bay leaves – infuse subtle flavors during simmering.
For the Protein & Finish
• Shredded cooked chicken – adds heartiness and protein to the dish.
• Freshly squeezed lime juice – brightens up the flavors and embodies classic Sopa de Lima.
• Minced cilantro leaves – provides a fresh, herbaceous finish.
Optional Toppings
• Tortilla chips – add crunch and texture when sprinkled on top.
• Cubed avocado – offers creaminess and a delightful contrast to the soup.
Gather these vibrant ingredients, and you’ll be ready to whisk your loved ones away to Mexico with every comforting bowl of Sopa de Lima!
How to Make Sopa de Lima
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Heat the Oil: In a large pot or Dutch oven, drizzle in the olive oil and warm it over medium heat. Add the diced onion, green bell peppers, jalapeño, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper. Sauté for about 8 minutes until the veggies are tender and fragrant.
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Add the Tomatoes and Broth: Turn up the heat to medium-high. Add the drained fire roasted tomatoes, chicken broth, dried oregano, and bay leaves. Stir everything together and bring to a rapid simmer, then reduce the heat to medium-low. Cover the pot and let the flavors meld for around 10 minutes.
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Incorporate the Chicken: Stir in the shredded chicken and freshly squeezed lime juice. Allow it to simmer for an additional 5 minutes, letting all those delicious flavors come together beautifully.
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Serve and Garnish: Ladle the hot soup into bowls, garnishing each serving with fresh cilantro, a sprinkle of crushed tortilla chips, and cubed avocado for a delightful finish.
Optional: For an extra kick, add a few extra lime wedges on the side!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Sopa de Lima
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Fridge: Store leftover Sopa de Lima in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Allow the soup to cool completely before sealing to maintain its delicious flavor.
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Freezer: For long-term storage, freeze the soup in portions for up to 3 months. Use freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving space for expansion.
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Thawing: To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge or use the microwave on the defrost setting. Heat on the stovetop, adding a splash of chicken broth if the soup thickens.
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Reheating: Warm the soup gently over low heat, stirring occasionally for even heating. Enjoy your homemade Sopa de Lima as if it were freshly made!
Make Ahead Options
Preparing Sopa de Lima ahead of time is a wonderful way to save yourself precious moments on busy weeknights! You can chop the vegetables (onion, bell peppers, jalapeño, and garlic) up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate them in an airtight container to maintain their freshness. Another great option is to simmer the soup base and let it cool completely; store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Simply reheat on the stove, stir in the shredded chicken and lime juice, and simmer for a few minutes until warmed through. This meal prep will ensure a comforting, delicious bowl of Sopa de Lima with minimal effort when it’s time to serve!
Sopa de Lima Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to let your creativity shine as you customize this delightful soup!
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Vegetarian: Swap chicken broth with vegetable broth and replace chicken with black beans or chickpeas for hearty protein.
Embrace the richness of textures and flavors with these nutritious legumes, ensuring every bowl remains satisfying. -
Dairy-Free: Omit any dairy-based toppings like sour cream and garnish with extra avocado or a dollop of dairy-free yogurt.
This swap keeps the soup fresh and vibrant while still indulging that creamy craving! -
Extra Spicy: Add diced serrano peppers or a splash of hot sauce for a fiery twist to your Sopa de Lima.
Feel the heat bring warmth to your soul, complementing the zesty lime with a fiery embrace! -
Smoky Flavor: Incorporate chipotle peppers in adobo sauce to infuse a smoky depth into your broth.
This variation adds an exciting layer of flavor that transports your taste buds straight to the heart of Mexico! -
Sweet Corn: Toss in a can of drained corn kernels for a hint of sweetness and delightful texture.
This addition balances the tart lime while introducing a juicy crunch that makes each spoonful even more enjoyable! -
Herb Medley: Enhance the fresh flavor by adding chopped fresh mint or parsley along with cilantro for added freshness.
These herbs will uplift your soup’s flavor profile and bring it to a whole new level of brightness. -
Lime Zest: For even more zesty flavor, add lime zest alongside juice for a punchy citrus aroma.
This simple twist will have every body craving a taste of summer with each spoonful you serve! -
Ingredient Boost: Add diced potatoes or sweet potatoes for a more filling and comforting version of your Sopa de Lima.
The creamy texture of cooked potatoes adds heartiness to the dish, making it perfect for a satisfying meal!
Expert Tips for Sopa de Lima
- Perfect Veggies: Make sure not to overcook the vegetables; tender is key, but they should maintain some crunch for texture.
- Spice Control: If you’re not a fan of heat, reduce the jalapeño or remove the seeds before chopping. Balance is essential for the Sopa de Lima.
- Flavor Boost: Use homemade chicken broth if possible, as it adds depth and richness compared to store-bought versions.
- Fresh Juice: Always opt for freshly squeezed lime juice to enhance the brightness of the soup; bottled juice lacks the same zesty punch.
- Garnish Wisely: Add toppings just before serving to keep tortilla chips crispy and avocado fresh. Enjoy the added texture!
What to Serve with Sopa de Lima?
There’s something truly special about crafting a meal around the warmth and vibrant flavors of this hearty soup, inviting joy and comfort to your table.
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Cilantro Lime Rice: This fluffy side complements the tangy notes of the soup beautifully, offering a soothing texture and bright flavor. It’s perfect for soaking up every delicious drop!
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Grilled Corn on the Cob: The sweetness of grilled corn brings a delightful contrast to the savory soup. Slather on some lime and chili powder for extra zest!
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Black Bean Salad: This refreshing salad adds a cool crunch with contrasting flavors, highlighting the spices and depth of the soup while keeping it light and healthy.
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Avocado Toast: Creamy avocado spread on toasted bread offers a rich counterpart to Sopa de Lima. Top it with sliced radishes for an extra crunch and color.
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Tropical Fruit Salsa: A burst of mango, pineapple, and mint adds a sweet, tangy twist that balances the soup’s savory depth, brightening up any meal.
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Chilled White Wine: A crisp, chilled Sauvignon Blanc or a light rosé is perfect for pairing, enhancing the zesty flavors without overpowering them.
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Churros with Chocolate Sauce: For dessert, these sweet, crispy treats are a dream! Their cinnamon-sugar coating is the perfect sweet ending to your meal after Sopa de Lima.
Now that you have some delightful pairings, get ready to savor a full and vibrant dining experience!
Sopa de Lima Recipe FAQs
How do I select ripe ingredients for Sopa de Lima?
Absolutely! For the best flavor, select firm bell peppers without dark spots and ripe but slightly firm avocados for serving. When choosing tomatoes, look for ones that are bright red and feel slightly heavy for their size. Fresh garlic is best when the cloves are plump and the skin is intact.
How should I store leftover Sopa de Lima?
You can store leftover Sopa de Lima in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Be sure to let the soup cool completely before sealing to preserve its delightful flavor and avoid condensation, which can make it watery.
Can I freeze Sopa de Lima?
Yes, indeed! For long-term storage, freeze the soup in portions using freezer-safe containers or bags for up to 3 months. When freezing, leave about an inch of space at the top of the containers for expansion. Just remember to label them with the date!
What’s the best way to reheat frozen Sopa de Lima?
To reheat, thaw your frozen soup overnight in the refrigerator for the best results. If you’re in a hurry, use the microwave’s defrost setting. Once thawed, warm the soup on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth if it’s thickened too much.
Are there any dietary considerations for Sopa de Lima?
Very much! If you’re concerned about allergies, ensure that your broth is gluten-free as some brands may contain gluten. Additionally, if you’re serving this to pets, it’s best to keep them away from the soup due to the ingredients like onions and garlic, which can be harmful to them.
What if my Sopa de Lima is too spicy for my taste?
If your soup turns out spicier than you intended, you can balance the heat by adding a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt when serving. Another option is to mix in some shredded cheese or an extra splash of chicken broth to dilute the spice. Enjoy the flavorful journey without the burn!
Sopa de Lima: A Zesty Twist on Classic Comfort Food
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Heat the Oil: In a large pot or Dutch oven, drizzle in the olive oil and warm it over medium heat. Add the diced onion, green bell peppers, jalapeño, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper. Sauté for about 8 minutes until the veggies are tender and fragrant.
- Add the Tomatoes and Broth: Turn up the heat to medium-high. Add the drained fire roasted tomatoes, chicken broth, dried oregano, and bay leaves. Stir everything together and bring to a rapid simmer, then reduce the heat to medium-low. Cover the pot and let the flavors meld for around 10 minutes.
- Incorporate the Chicken: Stir in the shredded chicken and freshly squeezed lime juice. Allow it to simmer for an additional 5 minutes, letting all those delicious flavors come together beautifully.
- Serve and Garnish: Ladle the hot soup into bowls, garnishing each serving with fresh cilantro, a sprinkle of crushed tortilla chips, and cubed avocado for a delightful finish.