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 lb chicken breast, diced; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 onion, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 jalapeño, diced (optional for extra heat); 4 cups chicken broth; 2 cups corn, frozen or fresh; 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed; 1 teaspoon cumin; 1 teaspoon chili powder; Juice of 2 limes; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh cilantro for garnish

Highlighted under: Healthy Meals Quick

I absolutely love warming up with a bowl of Chili Lime Chicken Soup! The combination of vibrant flavors—spicy chilies, zesty lime, and tender chicken—creates a comforting dish that satisfies both the soul and the taste buds. Each spoonful feels like a hug on a chilly day. As I perfected this recipe over time, I discovered that marinating the chicken not only enhances the flavor, but it also makes it incredibly juicy. Trust me, you’ll want to add this cozy dish to your go-to recipe rotations.

Created by

Lena

Last updated on 2026-01-20T11:26:28.675Z

This Chili Lime Chicken Soup became a staple in my kitchen during the colder months. When I first tried a similar dish at a local restaurant, I was taken aback by how a simple bowl of soup could burst with such vibrant flavors! After experimenting with various ingredients, I found the perfect balance of heat and zest that keeps me coming back for more.

I found that letting the flavors meld together for a few minutes at the end truly allows the spices to shine. One tip I swear by is to squeeze fresh lime juice right before serving; it elevates the dish and adds that refreshing kick!

        Why You’ll Love This Soup
        Zesty lime flavor combined with spicy chilies for a refreshing kick
Hearty ingredients make it filling and satisfying
Easy to make and perfect for busy weeknights

      

Understanding the Ingredients

The star of this Chili Lime Chicken Soup is undoubtedly the chicken. Choosing high-quality chicken breast will not only enhance the flavor but also ensure a tender and juicy outcome. I recommend marinating the chicken with lime juice, cumin, and chili powder for at least 30 minutes. This isn’t just about flavor; the acid in lime aids in breaking down proteins for a more tender bite. If time permits, even longer marinating (up to 2 hours) will yield even better results.

Using fresh or frozen corn in this recipe adds both sweetness and texture. I find that fresh corn, when in season, will give a brighter taste, while frozen corn conveniently enhances the dish year-round. When adding the corn, let it cook just enough to retain a slight crunch; usually 5-7 minutes in the pot is ideal. This contrast creates an enticing bite when mixed with the creaminess of the black beans.

Cooking Techniques for Success

Sautéing the chicken at the outset is crucial for flavor development. Make sure the pot is adequately heated before adding the olive oil and chicken to avoid stewing. Cook the chicken until golden brown on the outside, which usually takes about 5-7 minutes, ensuring it's cooked through. You should see no pink in the center. This browning step is key; it not only seals in juices but also adds depth of flavor through the Maillard reaction.

When you incorporate the onions and garlic, keep an eye on the heat. If it’s too high, they can burn rather quickly, giving a bitter taste to the soup. Use medium heat and aim for the onions to turn translucent and glossy rather than brown. This usually takes around 3-4 minutes. Stir constantly to ensure even cooking and avoid sticking.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make this delicious soup!

Ingredients

1 lb chicken breast, diced
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 jalapeño, diced (optional for extra heat)
4 cups chicken broth
2 cups corn, frozen or fresh
1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
1 teaspoon cumin
1 teaspoon chili powder
Juice of 2 limes
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh cilantro for garnish

Make sure to have fresh lime and cilantro on hand for that perfect finish!

Instructions

Follow these easy steps to create your Chili Lime Chicken Soup!

Sauté the Chicken

In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the diced chicken and season with salt and pepper. Cook until no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes.

Add Aromatics

Stir in the onions and garlic, cooking until the onions become translucent, about 3-4 minutes. If using, add the jalapeño for a spicy kick.

Combine Ingredients

Pour in the chicken broth, corn, black beans, cumin, and chili powder. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and let simmer for 20 minutes.

Finish It Off

Just before serving, stir in the lime juice for that fresh flavor and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro.

Enjoy this delightful soup with tortilla chips for added crunch!

Pro Tips

For an extra flavorful soup, let the chicken marinate in the lime juice and spices for at least 30 minutes before cooking.

Storing and Reheating

Chili Lime Chicken Soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply place it in a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. If the soup thickens upon sitting, add a splash of chicken broth or water to thin it back to your desired consistency.

For longer storage, this soup freezes beautifully. Portion it into freezer-safe containers, leaving some space for expansion, and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator, and reheat on the stove or in the microwave. Be sure to give it a quick squeeze of fresh lime juice when serving to revive those bright flavors.

Variations and Additions

Customize this Chili Lime Chicken Soup with your favorite vegetables. Consider adding diced bell peppers, kale, or zucchini during the simmering stage for added nutrition and flavor. Carrots can also bring a subtle sweetness that balances well with the spices. Just remember to cut them into small, uniform pieces to ensure even cooking.

For a vegetarian version, simply substitute the chicken with a mix of hearty beans like chickpeas or kidney beans, and vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can also add cubed sweet potatoes to keep the soup satisfying, while ensuring it maintains the vibrant flavors of lime and chili.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use leftover chicken for this recipe?

Absolutely! Just add the cooked chicken at the end during the simmering stage to heat it through.

→ Is this soup spicy?

The spice level can be adjusted by using more or less jalapeño or chili powder according to your preference.

→ Can I freeze this soup?

Yes, this soup freezes well! Just store it in an airtight container and it will keep for up to three months.

→ What can I serve with this soup?

It pairs wonderfully with avocado slices, tortilla chips, or crusty bread for dipping.