Spiced Chicken and Avocado Soup

Name: Spiced Chicken and Avocado Soup
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 onion, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 1 teaspoon ground coriander; 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper; 4 cups chicken broth; 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes; 1 avocado, diced; Salt and pepper, to taste; Juice of 1 lime; Fresh cilantro, for garnish

Highlighted under: Wellness Kitchen Ideas

I love creating warming soups during the colder months, and this Spiced Chicken and Avocado Soup has quickly become one of my favorites. The combination of fragrant spices with tender chicken and creamy avocado is simply irresistible. It’s not just comforting but also a delightful twist on traditional chicken soup. With a touch of lime and fresh cilantro, this soup bursts with flavors that brighten up any dreary day. Plus, it’s easy to make and perfect for meal prep, so I often whip up a big batch to enjoy throughout the week.

Created by

Ella

Last updated on 2026-01-20T12:25:28.082Z

During my journey of exploring various cuisines, I stumbled upon a recipe for Spiced Chicken and Avocado Soup that sounded too good to pass up. I decided to give it a try one chilly evening and instantly fell in love with the rich layers of flavor. The spicing was perfect—a combination of cumin, coriander, and a hint of cayenne that warmed me from the inside out. Adding fresh avocado right before serving gave it a delightful creaminess that I never knew was possible in a soup.

This soup has become my go-to comfort food—it’s so easy to prepare yet feels special enough for any occasion. The trick I discovered is to let it simmer gently to allow all the flavors to meld beautifully. Topping it with a squeeze of fresh lime and a sprinkle of cilantro elevates it even further. It’s a dish I know I’ll keep making for years to come.

        Reasons You'll Love This Recipe
        A unique blend of spices that brings warmth and depth
Creamy avocado adds richness and texture
Quick to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights
Nutritious and satisfying, ideal for meal prep

      

Understanding the Spices

The spices used in this Spiced Chicken and Avocado Soup not only enhance the flavor but also contribute to the dish's aromatic warmth. Ground cumin and coriander are the backbone spices here, bringing earthy notes that complement the chicken. Cumin imparts a slightly nutty, peppery flavor, while coriander contributes a citrusy undertone that brightens the soup. If you want to play with the heat level, adjust the cayenne pepper according to your taste; a little goes a long way in adding warmth without overwhelming the other flavors.

A gentle sauté of the spices with the onions and garlic is crucial. This process, often overlooked, helps to release the essential oils in the spices, maximizing their impact in the dish. Aim to cook them just until fragrant, about a minute or so, to avoid bitterness while ensuring a full-bodied flavor. This technique sets the foundation for a deliciously complex soup that’s anything but ordinary.

Perfecting the Chicken

Using boneless skinless chicken breasts makes for a quick cooking option, but be cautious not to overcook them. A good visual cue is to look for golden edges while browning, which indicates a flavorful crust forming. If you're short on time, consider using rotisserie chicken; just shred it and add it to the soup at the simmering stage for a swift shortcut without sacrificing flavor. Similarly, leftover chicken works well in this recipe; the flavors meld beautifully, making it an excellent option to repurpose ingredients.

After cooking, letting the chicken rest before shredding helps retain its moisture. Allow it to sit for about 5 minutes, ensuring the chicken remains juicy rather than dry. Utilize two forks or your hands to shred; aiming for bite-sized pieces promotes an even distribution of chicken throughout the soup, giving you a perfect balance with the creamy avocado and robust broth.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients for your Spiced Chicken and Avocado Soup:

Main Ingredients

2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon ground coriander
1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
4 cups chicken broth
1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
1 avocado, diced
Salt and pepper, to taste
Juice of 1 lime
Fresh cilantro, for garnish

Make sure to use ripe avocados for the best flavor and creaminess.

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your delicious soup:

Cook the Chicken

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side until they are browned and cooked through. Remove from the pot and set aside to rest.

Sauté the Aromatics

In the same pot, add the chopped onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until translucent. Stir in the garlic, cumin, coriander, and cayenne pepper, cooking for an additional minute until fragrant.

Combine and Simmer

Return the chicken to the pot, then add the chicken broth and diced tomatoes. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low and let it simmer for about 20 minutes.

Shred the Chicken

After simmering, shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces and return it to the pot. Season with salt, pepper, and lime juice to taste.

Finish with Avocado

Just before serving, stir in the diced avocado and let it warm through for a couple of minutes. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro.

Don’t forget to taste and adjust the seasoning before serving!

Pro Tips

For a heartier soup, consider adding black beans or corn for extra texture and nutrition.

Storage and Meal Prep

This soup is an ideal candidate for meal prepping. You can store it in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 4 days. When reheating, do so gently over low heat to keep the avocado from turning mushy; the goal is to warm it through without cooking it further. You might want to add a splash of chicken broth if the soup thickens too much upon refrigeration.

For longer storage, consider freezing the soup without the avocado. It can last up to 3 months in the freezer, maintaining its rich flavors while allowing the avocado to be added fresh when serving. Just thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating to ensure even warming.

Creative Serving Ideas

While this soup is delightful on its own, serving it with a squeeze of fresh lime juice and a sprinkle of additional cilantro elevates the flavors even further. For a crunchy texture contrast, consider adding tortilla chips or crispy toppings right before enjoying. Alternatively, a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt can add a creamy tang, enriching each spoonful.

If you're feeling adventurous, serve the soup over a bed of cooked grains like quinoa or brown rice for a heartier meal. This twist adds a different texture and transforms it into a fulfilling dinner option that combines protein, healthy fats, and fiber seamlessly.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use leftover chicken for this recipe?

Absolutely! Using leftover chicken can save time and enhance the flavor of the soup.

→ How can I make this soup spicier?

If you prefer more heat, feel free to add more cayenne pepper or toss in some diced jalapeño.

→ Is there a vegetarian version of this soup?

Yes! Replace the chicken with chickpeas or extra beans, and use vegetable broth instead.

→ How long can I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It can be frozen for up to 2 months.