Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta Soup is a rich and hearty dish that blends the bold spices of Cajun cuisine with the comfort of a creamy pasta soup. Loaded with tender chicken, pasta, and vegetables, this soup offers a perfect balance of heat, creaminess, and savory goodness. It’s an ideal one-pot meal for cozy dinners or meal prep for the week.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

boneless skinless chicken breast or thighsoniongarlicbell pepper (red or green)celerycarrotsCajun seasoningcrushed tomatoeschicken brothheavy creamcream cheesebutterolive oiluncooked pasta (penne or rotini recommended)salt and pepperparsley (for garnish)

directions

Heat olive oil and butter in a large pot over medium heat.

Add diced chicken, season with salt, pepper, and half of the Cajun seasoning, and cook until browned. Remove chicken and set aside.

In the same pot, sauté chopped onion, garlic, bell pepper, celery, and carrots until softened.

Stir in the remaining Cajun seasoning, then add crushed tomatoes and chicken broth.

Bring to a simmer, then return the chicken to the pot and cook until fully cooked through.

Add pasta and simmer until al dente, stirring occasionally.

Lower the heat, stir in heavy cream and cream cheese until fully melted and incorporated.

Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.

Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 6 servings.Preparation time: 15 minutesCooking time: 30 minutesTotal time: 45 minutes

Variations

Use andouille sausage instead of chicken for a spicier, smoky flavor.

Add spinach or kale at the end for a nutritional boost.

Substitute coconut milk for heavy cream for a dairy-free version.

Try different pasta shapes like shells or elbow macaroni for variety.

Adjust the Cajun seasoning to control the heat level.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or cream if the soup thickens too much.You can freeze this soup for up to 2 months; thaw in the fridge and reheat before serving.

FAQs

Is this soup spicy?

It has a medium heat level due to the Cajun seasoning, but you can adjust to your taste.

Can I use pre-cooked chicken?

Yes, add it in just before the cream and cream cheese to avoid overcooking.

What kind of pasta works best?

Short pasta like penne, rotini, or shells hold up well and absorb flavor nicely.

Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Absolutely, it reheats well and flavors deepen after a day.

Is there a gluten-free option?

Use gluten-free pasta and ensure your Cajun seasoning is gluten-free.

Can I add more vegetables?

Yes, zucchini, corn, or peas make great additions.

Why is my soup too thick?

Add more broth or cream to thin it to your preferred consistency.

What can I serve with it?

Crusty bread, garlic toast, or a green salad pair perfectly.

Does this soup work for meal prep?

Yes, it stores and reheats well for several days.

Can I use milk instead of cream?

You can, but it will be less rich—consider adding a bit more cream cheese for body.

Conclusion

Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta Soup is a comforting and flavorful dish that combines the heartiness of a creamy soup with the bold, spicy notes of Cajun cuisine. Easy to prepare and incredibly satisfying, it’s sure to become a favorite for weeknight dinners or warming leftovers. Enjoy a bowlful of this soulful soup and savor the cozy indulgence.