Chilled Avocado Chicken Soup

Name: Chilled Avocado Chicken Soup
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 ripe avocados, halved and pitted; 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded; 3 cups chicken broth; 1/2 cup plain yogurt; 1 lime, juiced; 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped; Salt and pepper to taste; Tortilla strips for garnish

Highlighted under: Bright & Healthy Bites

I absolutely love making this Chilled Avocado Chicken Soup, especially during the warm months when I want something refreshing yet satisfying. The combination of ripe avocados, tender chicken, and a burst of lime creates a delightful harmony of flavors. I often find myself experimenting with different herbs and spices, but the basic recipe remains a crowd-pleaser in my home. Serve it chilled, and you'll have a fantastic meal ready in no time, perfect for lunches or casual dinners with friends.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-20T14:46:28.478Z

Creating this Chilled Avocado Chicken Soup was a delightful journey for me, as I wanted to find a way to embrace the creamy texture of avocados while keeping the dish light and nutritious. By blending ripe avocados with seasoned chicken broth, I discovered a smooth base that still holds those fresh flavors. Adding lime juice at the end brings a zing that elevates the whole dish.

One of my best tips is to chill the soup for an extra two hours before serving; it allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Topping it off with fresh cilantro and crispy tortilla strips adds another layer of texture and taste that just makes it irresistible!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Creamy avocado goodness that soothes the palate
A perfect balance of refreshing and savory flavors
Quick and easy preparation for a busy lifestyle

      

The Role of Avocado in the Soup

Avocados are the star ingredient in this soup, providing a creamy texture that forms the backbone of the dish. Their natural fats not only make the soup velvety but also help to carry the flavors of lime and cilantro. When pureed, ripe avocados should transform into a glossy, smooth consistency that feels rich without being heavy, making this soup a delightful option even on warmer days.

To ensure you get the best flavor and texture from your avocados, choose ones that are slightly soft to the touch but not mushy. This way, you'll enjoy that buttery richness without any bitterness or stringiness. If you're ever in a pinch for ripe avocados, you can quick-ripen them in a paper bag with an apple or banana for a day or two.

Balancing the Flavors

A key aspect of this recipe is the balance between the creaminess of the avocado and the acidity of the lime juice. Fresh lime juice brightens the dish, enhancing the natural flavors of the chicken and herbs. Adjust the lime to your taste; I recommend starting with the juice of half a lime, tasting, and then adding more if you'd like a sharper tang. This balance is crucial for preventing the soup from becoming overly rich.

Moreover, the fresh cilantro not only adds a herby note but also a hint of brightness that cuts through the creaminess. If you're not a fan of cilantro, fresh parsley works well too, though it will impart a different flavor profile. Don't hesitate to explore variations with other herbs, such as mint, for a unique twist that keeps the soup exciting.

Make-Ahead Tips and Serving Suggestions

This Chilled Avocado Chicken Soup is an excellent make-ahead dish, perfect for meal prepping. Once blended and combined, the soup can be covered and stored in the fridge for up to three days. Just be sure to give it a good stir before serving, as the ingredients may separate slightly during refrigeration. If it becomes too thick, you can easily thin it out with a bit of additional chicken broth.

For serving, consider pairing the soup with a simple side salad or crunchy veggies for added texture and freshness. You can also elevate the presentation using garnishes like additional cilantro, diced tomatoes, or even a drizzle of spicy oil for a kick. Serve it in chilled bowls for an extra refreshing effect—just pop the bowls in the freezer for about 15 minutes before serving, and enjoy the coolness of this delightful dish.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to make your delicious chilled soup:

Ingredients

2 ripe avocados, halved and pitted
2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
3 cups chicken broth
1/2 cup plain yogurt
1 lime, juiced
1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste
Tortilla strips for garnish

Make sure everything is fresh for the best flavor!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare your soup:

Blend the Base

In a blender, combine the avocados, chicken broth, yogurt, lime juice, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth and creamy.

Mix in Chicken

Pour the avocado mixture into a large bowl. Gently fold in the shredded chicken and chopped cilantro.

Chill

Cover the bowl and refrigerate the soup for at least 2 hours before serving to allow the flavors to meld.

Serve

Once chilled, serve the soup in bowls and garnish with tortilla strips and extra cilantro.

Enjoy your refreshing soup on a warm day!

Pro Tips

For added texture, consider incorporating diced cucumbers or red onions as a garnish. This will enhance the overall experience with extra crunch!

Ingredient Substitutions

If you're looking to adapt this recipe for dietary preferences or restrictions, there are many substitutions you can make. For a dairy-free version, swap out the plain yogurt for coconut yogurt or a dairy-free sour cream alternative. This still provides creaminess while keeping the dish allergen-friendly.

For those wanting to increase the protein content even further, consider adding cooked beans, such as black beans or chickpeas, which would also enhance the soup's heartiness. Just ensure that whatever beans you choose are well-drained and rinsed before incorporating them into the soup.

Troubleshooting Tips

If your soup turns out darker than expected, it's typically due to the oxidation of the avocado. To minimize this, make sure to blend the avocados with the lime juice immediately after cutting them. The acidity of the lime helps preserve their vibrant green color. If you find the soup has darkened despite your efforts, a sprinkle of fresh cilantro or a layer of tortilla strips on top can help visually freshen it up.

Another common issue is a too-thick soup consistency. If you’ve accidentally added too much avocado or yogurt, simply blend in more chicken broth a tablespoon at a time until you reach your desired consistency. Remember, the soup should be pourable but not watery, hitting that perfect creamy balance.

Storing and Freezing

While this soup is best enjoyed fresh, you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, do so gently over low heat to avoid curdling the yogurt; however, many enjoy this chowder served cold, making immediate reheating unnecessary.

If you want to prepare it longer-term, freezing is an option, but be mindful that the texture may slightly change upon thawing. For best results, freeze the soup in individual portions for quick meals—just ensure to leave some headspace in the container as liquids expand when frozen.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes! This soup can be made a day in advance. Just keep it refrigerated and stir well before serving.

→ What can I substitute for chicken?

You could use canned beans or tofu for a vegetarian option, which will still provide a hearty bite.

→ Is it necessary to use yogurt?

While yogurt adds creaminess, you can use a dairy-free alternative if desired, or simply omit it for a lighter soup.

→ How long will leftovers keep?

Leftover soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Just be sure to store it in a sealed container.