Sopa de Lima is a refreshing Mexican soup that brightens your day! Made with fresh lime juice, chicken, and spices, it’s packed with zesty flavors and a touch of love.
I love how the lime gives it a nice kick! It’s so easy to whip up, perfect for when you want something warm and tasty without too much fuss. Grab a bowl and enjoy! 🍲
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are great for this recipe, but you could use chicken thighs if you prefer a richer flavor. Rotisserie chicken is also a fantastic shortcut!
Lime: Fresh limes are essential for that signature tangy flavor. If you’re in a pinch, bottled lime juice can work, but the fresh stuff makes a big difference.
Chicken broth: Homemade broth is best, but store-bought works too. You can use vegetable broth to make it vegetarian-friendly. Just make sure to add some extra spices for flavor!
Vegetables: Along with the onion and tomato, you can sneak in other veggies like corn or carrots if you want to add more texture and color to the soup.
How Do You Make the Chicken Tender and Flavorful?
Cooking the chicken just right is key for a delicious soup! Here’s how to ensure it’s packed with flavor and tender:
- Start with cold chicken and cold broth, then bring to a boil. This helps keep the chicken juicy.
- Simmer it gently over medium heat instead of boiling hard. This prevents toughness.
- Let it cool slightly after cooking, then shred it with two forks to keep it nice and fluffy!
By taking your time with the chicken, you’ll enhance the dish beautifully. Enjoy your cooking! 🌿
Simple and Delicious Sopa de Lima Recipe
Ingredients You Need:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 8 cups chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 medium white onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 large tomato, chopped
- 1 jalapeño, seeded and chopped (optional for heat)
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 2 limes (juice and sliced wedges for garnish)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 cup tortilla strips or fried tortilla strips
- Fresh cilantro, chopped for garnish
- 1/2 cup bell pepper, diced (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 45 minutes in total. You’ll spend around 15 minutes preparing the ingredients and cooking the chicken, and then another 30 minutes for simmering and letting those flavors come together beautifully. Perfect for a cozy meal!
Let’s Make It Step-by-Step!
1. Boil the Chicken:
In a large pot, add the chicken breasts and chicken broth. Heat over medium-high until it reaches a boil. Once boiling, lower the heat and let it simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through. Make sure it’s no longer pink in the middle!
2. Shred the Chicken:
Once the chicken is done cooking, carefully remove it from the pot using tongs. Let it cool a little, then shred it into bite-sized pieces using two forks. Set aside for later.
3. Sauté the Vegetables:
In a skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until it’s softened (about 5 minutes). Next, stir in the minced garlic, chopped tomato, jalapeño (if using), cumin, and oregano. Cook for another 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Combine Everything:
Transfer your sautéed mixture back into the pot with the chicken broth. Stir well to mix everything together.
5. Simmer for Flavor:
Return the broth to a simmer and let it cook for another 10 minutes. This will allow all the delicious flavors to blend together.
6. Add Chicken and Season:
Finally, add the shredded chicken back into the pot. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Pour in the fresh lime juice and stir well. Give it a taste, and adjust the flavors if you need to.
7. Serve It Up:
To serve this vibrant soup, ladle it into bowls and garnish with fresh cilantro and lime wedges. Don’t forget to sprinkle those crispy tortilla strips on top for a fun crunch!
Enjoy your flavorful and zesty Sopa de Lima! It’s sure to bring a smile to your face and warmth to your heart.
Can I Use Leftover Rotisserie Chicken?
Absolutely! Using leftover rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver. Just shred the chicken and add it to the soup toward the end of cooking, allowing it to warm through without overcooking.
How Can I Make This Soup Spicier?
If you like a bit more heat, you can add additional jalapeño or even a dash of cayenne pepper. You might also consider adding some diced chipotle peppers in adobo sauce for a smoky kick!
Can I Make This Soup Vegetarian?
Yes, you can easily make a vegetarian version! Swap the chicken broth for vegetable broth and replace the chicken with hearty vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, or even beans for protein.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
To store leftovers, let the soup cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, consider freezing it for up to 3 months—just remember to leave out the crispy tortilla strips until you’re ready to serve!
