This Cajun Chicken Soup Pasta is a tasty dish that combines creamy soup, tender chicken, and pasta all in one pot. It’s packed with spicy flavors that warm you right up!
Making this dish is super fun! I love how it comes together quickly, and you can use whatever pasta you have on hand—no fancy stuff needed. It’s comfort food at its best! 🍲
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are great for this soup because they cook quickly and absorb flavors well. If you want, you can use chicken thighs for a bit more flavor and juiciness.
Cajun seasoning: This spice blend is what gives the soup its zesty kick. If you don’t have Cajun seasoning, try using a mix of paprika, garlic powder, and a pinch of cayenne for some heat.
Pasta: Rotini is a fun choice since its twists trap the soup nicely. You can swap it out for any short pasta you like, such as penne or fusilli. Gluten-free pasta works well too if needed!
Heavy cream: For a lighter option, use half-and-half or even coconut milk. It will change the flavor slightly, but it can be delicious!
How Can I Ensure My Soup is Full of Flavor?
Building flavor is key in this Cajun Chicken Soup Pasta! Start by cooking the chicken in olive oil until it’s brown—this adds depth. Then, sauté the onions, celery, and bell pepper until they’re soft. Don’t rush this step! It helps release their natural sweetness.
- Season each layer: Make sure you season the chicken well and don’t forget to use the Cajun seasoning when cooking the veggies.
- Mix in the garlic with the remaining Cajun seasoning right before adding the broth; this will bring out its aromatic qualities.
- Lastly, adjusting the seasoning with salt and pepper at the end ensures you enhance all those yummy flavors!
Cajun Chicken Soup Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Soup:
- 1 lb (450g) boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning (divided)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups (960ml) chicken broth
- 1 can (14.5 oz/410g) diced tomatoes, drained
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 6 oz (170g) rotini or any short pasta
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella or Monterey Jack cheese
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take you about 15 minutes for prep and around 25 minutes for cooking, making it a total of about 40 minutes from start to finish. A fantastic weeknight dinner that packs flavor in under an hour!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Season the bite-sized chicken pieces with half of the Cajun seasoning. This will help to infuse flavor right from the start!
2. Cook the Chicken:
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the seasoned chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Once done, remove the chicken from the pot and set it aside. This step adds a delightful color and flavor to your soup.
3. Sauté the Vegetables:
In the same pot, toss in the chopped onion, diced celery, and bell pepper. Sauté these veggies for about 5 minutes, or until they’re softened. This is where the magic starts to happen with the flavor!
4. Add the Garlic and Seasoning:
Stir in the minced garlic and the remaining Cajun seasoning. Cook this mixture for about one minute until it’s fragrant, filling your kitchen with a wonderful aroma.
5. Create the Base:
Pour in the chicken broth and add the drained diced tomatoes. Bring the mixture to a boil, allowing the flavors to start blending together.
6. Cook the Pasta:
Add the pasta to the pot and cook according to the package instructions until al dente—usually about 8-9 minutes. Stir occasionally to keep the pasta from sticking.
7. Make it Creamy:
Once the pasta is cooked, lower the heat and mix in the heavy cream and shredded cheese. Stir until the cheese melts and the soup takes on a creamy texture. Yummy!
8. Combine Everything:
Return the cooked chicken to the pot and heat everything through for 2-3 minutes. Taste your soup and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to your liking.
9. Serve and Garnish:
Ladle the delicious Cajun Chicken Soup Pasta into bowls. Sprinkle fresh chopped parsley on top for a pop of color and freshness!
10. Enjoy!
Serve your soup immediately and enjoy the hearty, creamy goodness of Cajun Chicken Soup Pasta! Perfect for a cozy dinner!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken in This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but it’s best to thaw it first for even cooking. Thaw the chicken overnight in the fridge or place it in a sealed bag under cold running water for quick thawing before cutting it into pieces.
What If I Don’t Have Heavy Cream?
No problem! You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half, whole milk, or even coconut milk for a lighter option. Just keep in mind that it may slightly alter the texture and flavor, but it will still be delicious!
How to Store Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove or microwave, adding a splash of broth or cream to keep it creamy.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
Absolutely! Substitute the chicken with bite-sized pieces of your favorite vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a tasty vegetarian version.
