In a Dutch oven or large pot, heat the oil over medium for about 40 seconds. Add the onions and tortillas and sauté for 3-5 minutes.
Add the garlic and sauté for another 2 minutes, scraping bottom of pot with a spoon.
Add the tomatoes and 1 cup of broth. Stir well, then gradually stir in remaining 2 cups of broth.
Continue heating over medium or just below a boil, then add the carrots, cumin, chili powder, honey and the bay leaf. Increase heat slightly and bring to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer. Cover and let simmer for 20-30 minutes.
Uncover and simmer, stirring often, for about 10-15 minutes or until soup is thick. Add salt and black pepper to taste. About 5 minutes before serving, add the chicken. Alternatively, you can put a big stack of chicken in a bowl, top it with avocados and cheese, then pour the soup around it. Remove the by leaf before serving. Makes about 5 cups.