This Cajun-Spiced Chicken Pasta Soup is a hearty, creamy soup that combines the zesty flavors of Cajun seasoning with tender chicken, pasta, and melted cheese. It’s a one-pot meal that’s rich, comforting, and packed with bold flavors, making it perfect for chilly nights or when you’re craving a little extra spice. With tender chicken, savory vegetables, and a creamy broth, this soup is guaranteed to be a hit.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Bold, Cajun-inspired flavors: The Cajun seasoning brings a wonderful kick and depth to the soup.
Comfort in a bowl: Creamy, cheesy, and hearty with pasta and chicken, it’s perfect for cozy nights.
One-pot wonder: Easy to make and minimal cleanup with everything cooked in one pot.
Great for leftovers: This soup tastes even better the next day, making it ideal for meal prep.

Ingredients

1 lb (450g) chicken breast, cut into strips
1 tbsp Cajun seasoning (divided)
1 tbsp olive oil
1 medium onion, diced (about 1 cup or 240ml)
1 bell pepper, diced (any color)
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 (14.5 oz or 400g) can diced tomatoes (with juice)
4 cups (960ml) chicken broth
1 cup (240ml) heavy cream
1 cup (100g) shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese
1/2 cup (50g) grated Parmesan cheese (plus extra for garnish)
1.5 cups (180g) penne pasta, uncooked
Salt and black pepper, to taste
2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Season and Cook the Chicken

Season the chicken strips with half of the Cajun seasoning. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned and fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the pot and set it aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

In the same pot, add the diced onion and bell pepper. Sauté for about 4-5 minutes, until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant.

Step 3: Add Tomatoes, Broth, and Seasoning

Pour in the diced tomatoes (including the juice) and chicken broth. Stir in the remaining Cajun seasoning, then bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.

Step 4: Add the Pasta and Cook

Add the uncooked pasta to the pot, and let the soup simmer for 10-12 minutes, or until the pasta is al dente.

Step 5: Make It Creamy

Stir in the heavy cream, cheddar (or Monterey Jack) cheese, and Parmesan cheese. Continue stirring until the cheese is fully melted, creating a creamy, flavorful broth.

Step 6: Return the Chicken and Season

Add the cooked chicken back into the soup. Season with salt and black pepper to taste, then let the soup simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes, until everything is heated through.

Step 7: Serve

Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with chopped green onions and extra Parmesan cheese if desired. Enjoy your Cajun-inspired comfort bowl!

Tips for the Best Cajun-Spiced Chicken Pasta Soup

Adjust the heat level: For a spicier soup, add extra Cajun seasoning or a pinch of red pepper flakes.
Use freshly shredded cheese: Freshly grated cheese melts smoother than pre-shredded cheese, giving the soup a creamier texture.
Check pasta as it cooks: The pasta will continue to cook slightly even after the soup is off the heat, so check it a little early to avoid overcooking.

Storage and Reheating

Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freezer: This soup freezes well, though the pasta may be a little softer upon reheating. Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
Reheating: Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally, or microwave individual portions until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this soup dairy-free?
Yes, substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk for a dairy-free option. Omit the cheese or use a dairy-free cheese alternative.

Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, any short pasta shape like fusilli, macaroni, or farfalle works well.

Can I use rotisserie chicken instead?
Yes, simply shred or dice the rotisserie chicken and add it when returning the chicken to the soup in Step 6.

Wrapping Up: A Creamy, Spicy Soup for Cozy Nights

This Cajun-Spiced Chicken Pasta Soup combines the best of a creamy pasta dish with the warmth and heartiness of a spicy soup. With tender chicken, al dente pasta, and a cheesy, Cajun-spiced broth, this soup is sure to become a family favorite. Serve it on chilly nights or whenever you’re craving something rich, flavorful, and comforting!

More Comforting Soup Recipes to Try

Creamy Tomato Basil Soup: A classic creamy tomato soup with fresh basil.
Loaded Potato Soup: Thick, rich, and topped with cheese, bacon, and green onions.
Chicken Tortilla Soup: A spicy, zesty soup topped with crunchy tortilla strips.

Made This Recipe?

We’d love to hear how it turned out! Leave a comment below, and don’t forget to share a photo of your delicious Cajun-Spiced Chicken Pasta Soup. Enjoy!