This Cajun Chicken Soup Pasta is full of flavor and warmth! Juicy chicken, zesty spices, and tender pasta come together in a cozy bowl that’s perfect for any day.
You know it’s a win when the whole family loves it! I always add a sprinkle of cheese on top—because let’s be real, cheese makes everything better. 🧀
I enjoy making this soup on chilly evenings. It’s easy and the leftovers are just as tasty, making lunch the next day something to look forward to!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: I recommend using boneless skinless chicken thighs for their juiciness, but breasts work just fine. You can swap chicken for cooked sausage or shrimp for a different protein. Tofu also makes a great vegetarian option!
Cajun Seasoning: If you can’t find Cajun seasoning, you can make your own blend using paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, thyme, and oregano. Customize it to your taste! If spicy isn’t your thing, reduce the cayenne.
Heavy Cream: For a lighter soup, substitute with half-and-half or coconut milk for a dairy-free option. Just note that it’ll change the flavor a bit. You could also use plain yogurt but add it carefully near the end to avoid curdling.
Pasta: While rotini is great for catching that delicious sauce, you can substitute it with any small pasta like penne or macaroni. Gluten-free pasta is also an option if needed!
How Can I Make Sure My Chicken Stays Juicy?
Cooking chicken properly is key to getting that juicy bite. Start by coating it evenly with Cajun seasoning to enhance flavor. Searing in hot oil locks in moisture:
- Heat oil in the pot, cook chicken until nicely browned and fully cooked (5-7 minutes).
- Don’t overcrowd the pan—work in batches if needed!
- Let chicken rest after cooking to seal in juices before adding back to the soup.
Following these tips will keep your chicken moist and flavorful in your Cajun Chicken Soup Pasta!
How to Make Cajun Chicken Soup Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- Chicken: 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- Seasoning: 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning (store-bought or homemade)
- Cooking Oil: 1 tbsp olive oil
- Vegetables: 1 cup diced onions
- 1/2 cup diced green bell pepper
- 1/2 cup diced celery
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- Tomatoes: 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- Broth: 4 cups chicken broth
- Cream: 1 cup heavy cream
- Pasta: 6 oz rotini or spiral pasta
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
- Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
Estimated Time Needed:
This delightful Cajun Chicken Soup Pasta takes about 30 minutes to prepare and cook. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, it’s a one-pot meal that will have everyone coming back for seconds!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Chicken:
Start by tossing the chicken pieces in a bowl with Cajun seasoning, making sure they are well coated in that zesty goodness.
2. Cook the Chicken:
Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the seasoned chicken and cook until browned and cooked through—not more than about 5-7 minutes. When done, remove the chicken from the pot and set it aside.
3. Sauté the Vegetables:
In the same pot, add your diced onions, green bell pepper, and celery. Sauté these veggies for around 5 minutes or until they start to soften. Add the minced garlic, cooking for an additional minute until it gets fragrant and lovely.
4. Add Tomatoes and Broth:
Pour in the can of diced tomatoes with their juices and the chicken broth. Stir it all together and bring this mixture to a lively boil.
5. Cook the Pasta:
Once boiling, toss in the rotini pasta. Cook according to the package instructions, usually around 8-10 minutes, until it’s al dente.
6. Combine with Cream and Chicken:
Now, lower the heat to medium-low and gently stir in the heavy cream. Add the cooked chicken back into the pot, letting it simmer for an extra 3-5 minutes until everything is heated through and the flavors blend together beautifully.
7. Season to Taste:
Give your soup a taste, and adjust the seasoning with salt and freshly ground black pepper as needed. This is your chance to get those flavors just right!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Ladle the flavorful soup pasta into bowls. Don’t forget to garnish with some chopped fresh parsley and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese on top. Dive into your delicious Cajun Chicken Soup Pasta and enjoy the comfort it brings!
Enjoy your comforting and flavorful Cajun Chicken Soup Pasta!
Can I Use Different Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! While rotini or spiral pasta works great for catching the sauce, you can substitute it with any small pasta like penne, fusilli, or even gluten-free options if necessary. Just adjust the cooking time according to the pasta you choose!
How Can I Adjust the Spice Level?
If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce the amount of Cajun seasoning used or opt for a mild version. You can also mix in some dairy, like a splash of heavy cream, to help tone down the heat. If you love spice, feel free to add more seasoning or a few dashes of hot sauce!
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the soup up to the point before adding the cream and pasta. Store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to serve, reheat on the stove, then add the cream and cooked pasta.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover Cajun Chicken Soup Pasta in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently using the stove or microwave, adding a splash of water or broth if it seems too thick.
