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!
