This Chicken Tortilla Soup was the answer to my desperate attempt to find a flavorful recipe that didn’t taste like the bland versions I’d tried in restaurants.  Paying for soup that just didn’t quite do it for me was enough to send me running to the kitchen to make my own that I really loved.  This soup makes me happy!  It’s simple to throw together, and has the husband (and sister…who has been over twice when I’ve made it!) seal of approval!  I’ve linked this recipe up here!

Ingredients:

• 1 Tbsp avocado oil
• 1 small onion, diced
• 6 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 jalapeno, finely diced (we like it with 2 jalapenos, but it will be spicier!)
• 6 cups chicken broth/stock (homemade or store-bought)
• 1 (10 oz) can Rotel diced tomatoes & green chilies
• 1 (14.5 oz) can black beans, rinsed & drained
• 2 cups shredded Honey & Lime Chicken chicken
• 1 cup sweet corn
• 1 lime, juiced
• 1/2 bunch cilantro (about 1 cup) cilantro, divided and rough chopped
• 1/4 tsp cumin
• salt & pepper to taste

Toppings & Garnishes:

• shredded cheese
• sliced avocados
• sour cream
• crispy tortilla strips/crushed tortilla chips
• cilantro
• lime wedges
• sliced green onions

Directions:

1. In a stock pot or dutch oven, heat the avocado oil.  Saute onions until fragrant and translucent, 2-3 minutes.  Add garlic and jalapeno and cook for about 1 more minute.  
2. Add in remaining ingredients, except for half of the cilantro.  Combine all ingredients, and heat until soup is at a simmer.  
3. When ready to serve, ladle soup into bowls.  Divide remaining chopped cilantro among the bowls (it retains its fresh green color because it’s not cooked into the soup).  Add desired toppings and garnishes and serve!

*I like to divide the cilantro and sprinkle some on top because it will lose its fresh, green color as it cooks.  Feel free to add it all in the soup, if desired.

Adapted from FoodNetwork