CAJUN CHICKEN PASTA SOUP

I remember shivering on a particularly blustery autumn evening, craving something warm and comforting but with a kick. Tired of the same old soups, I decided to experiment, throwing in some Cajun spices I had on hand. What emerged from that pot was pure magic: a bowl of Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta Soup that warmed me from the inside out. Today, I’m sharing all my secrets for the most amazing Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta Soup you’ll ever make!

Why You’ll Absolutely Adore This Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta Soup

Let’s be honest, soup is more than just a meal; it’s a hug in a bowl. And this Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta Soup? It’s a super-sized, extra-cozy hug with a little bit of sass! It’s the kind of recipe that will have everyone asking for seconds (and thirds!). I’m talking about rich, creamy broth, tender chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, and that irresistible Cajun spice blend that just makes your taste buds sing. What could be better? Seriously, what could be better?

This isn’t just another chicken soup recipe. This is an experience. It’s the perfect weeknight dinner that feels incredibly special. It’s also a fantastic way to use up leftover cooked chicken or rotisserie chicken, making it both delicious and economical. Trust me; you’re going to want to make this one over and over again.

What Makes This Soup So Special?

• The Flavor Bomb: The Cajun spice blend is the star! It’s what transforms a basic chicken soup into something truly extraordinary.
• The Creaminess Factor: A touch of cream cheese and heavy cream creates a velvety smooth texture that’s utterly addictive.
• The Perfect Pasta: Using a smaller pasta shape, like ditalini or small shells, ensures that every spoonful is packed with goodness.
• The Versatility: This soup is incredibly adaptable! Feel free to add your favorite vegetables, adjust the spice level, or use different types of pasta.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need to gather to create this masterpiece. Don’t be intimidated by the ingredient list – most of these are pantry staples!

• Chicken: 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs (or leftover cooked chicken).
• Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons.
• Onion: 1 medium, chopped.
• Celery: 2 stalks, chopped.
• Carrots: 2 medium, chopped.
• Garlic: 4 cloves, minced.
• Chicken Broth: 8 cups (low sodium preferred).
• Ditalini Pasta: 1 cup (or other small pasta shape).
• Cajun Seasoning: 2-3 tablespoons (depending on your spice preference).
• Dried Thyme: 1 teaspoon.
• Dried Oregano: 1 teaspoon.
• Bay Leaf: 1.
• Cream Cheese: 4 ounces, softened.
• Heavy Cream: 1/2 cup.
• Green Onions: 2-3, thinly sliced (for garnish).
• Salt and Pepper: To taste.
• Optional Add-ins: Diced bell peppers, corn, spinach, or kale.

Step-by-Step Instructions: Let’s Get Cooking!

1. Prep the Chicken: If using raw chicken, cut it into bite-sized pieces.
2. Sauté the Aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the onion, celery, and carrots and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally. Your kitchen should already be smelling incredible!
3. Add the Garlic and Spices: Add the minced garlic, Cajun seasoning, dried thyme, and dried oregano to the pot and cook for another minute, until fragrant. The spices will bloom and release their amazing aromas.
4. Brown the Chicken: If using raw chicken, add it to the pot and cook until browned on all sides. It doesn’t need to be cooked through at this point.
5. Add the Broth and Bay Leaf: Pour in the chicken broth and add the bay leaf. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through (if using raw chicken). If using pre-cooked chicken, simmer for just 10 minutes to let the flavors meld.
6. Add the Pasta: Stir in the ditalini pasta and cook according to package directions, usually about 8-10 minutes, or until al dente. Make sure to stir occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking to the bottom of the pot.
7. Remove the Bay Leaf: Don’t forget to remove the bay leaf before proceeding!
8. Make it Creamy: Reduce the heat to low. Add the softened cream cheese and stir until completely melted and smooth. Then, stir in the heavy cream. Do not boil the soup after adding the cream!
9. Season to Perfection: Season with salt and pepper to taste. Remember that Cajun seasoning can be salty, so start with a little and add more as needed.
10. Garnish and Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with sliced green onions. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Success Tips for the BEST Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta Soup

• The Secret to the Perfect Cajun Kick: Don’t be afraid to experiment with different brands of Cajun seasoning! Each blend has its own unique flavor profile, so find one that you love. You can also make your own Cajun seasoning blend if you’re feeling adventurous.
• Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Overcooked pasta will turn mushy and ruin the texture of the soup. Cook the pasta until it’s al dente, meaning it’s still slightly firm to the bite.
• Softened Cream Cheese is Key: Make sure your cream cheese is fully softened before adding it to the soup. This will ensure that it melts smoothly and evenly, creating a velvety texture.
• Spice it Up (or Down): If you like your soup extra spicy, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce. If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce the amount of Cajun seasoning.
• Make-Ahead Magic: This soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will actually deepen and become even more delicious! Just add the pasta right before serving to prevent it from getting soggy.

Variations to Make It Your Own

The beauty of this Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta Soup is that it’s incredibly versatile. Feel free to get creative and customize it to your liking!

• Add Vegetables: Toss in some diced bell peppers (red, green, or yellow), corn kernels, spinach, kale, or even some chopped okra for a Southern twist.
• Swap the Protein: Use cooked shrimp, andouille sausage, or even smoked sausage instead of chicken. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
• Make it Vegetarian: Omit the chicken and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Add some chickpeas or white beans for extra protein.
• Spice it Up Even More: Add a can of diced tomatoes and green chilies for a Southwest-inspired flavor.
• Make it a One-Pot Meal: If you’re short on time, you can cook the chicken and pasta in the same pot! Just add the pasta after the chicken is cooked through.

Serving Suggestions: Complete the Meal

This Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta Soup is delicious on its own, but here are a few serving suggestions to make it a complete meal:

• Serve with Crusty Bread: A warm slice of crusty bread is perfect for dipping into the creamy broth.
• Add a Side Salad: A simple green salad with a vinaigrette dressing provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the soup.
• Top with Cheese: Sprinkle some shredded cheddar cheese, Monterey Jack cheese, or even some crumbled goat cheese on top of the soup for extra flavor.
• Add a Dollop of Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt: A dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt adds a tangy and cooling element to the soup.
• Serve with Cornbread: Cornbread is a classic Southern side dish that pairs perfectly with Cajun-inspired flavors.

Let’s Talk About Similar Soups You Might Also Love!

If you’re a soup fanatic like me, you’re always on the lookout for new and exciting recipes! If you enjoyed this Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta Soup, you might also love CHICKEN DUMPLING SOUP, a classic comfort food that’s perfect for a chilly day. Or, for another creamy, cheesy experience, try CREAMY TORTELLINI SOUP. And if you’re looking for something a little more decadent, definitely check out CHICKEN TORTELLINI HEAVEN, which is just as dreamy as it sounds! For another Cajun Chicken experience with pasta, be sure to check out Crock Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta. This recipe is so quick to prepare and cook. Or, if you like potatoes, there is the CREAMY CAJUN POTATO SOUP. And finally, for another Cajun chicken flavor you have to try CAJUN CHICKEN SOUP HEAVEN. All are guaranteed to be winners!

Storing and Reheating Instructions

Got leftovers? Lucky you! Here’s how to store and reheat your Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta Soup:

• Storing: Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat the soup in a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. You can also reheat it in the microwave, but be sure to stir it every minute to prevent it from splattering. If the soup has thickened too much, add a splash of chicken broth or water to thin it out.
• Freezing: While you can freeze this soup, the texture of the pasta and cream may change slightly. If you do freeze it, allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. It’s recommended to make and add the pasta when you reheat this soup!

Recipe Card: Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta Soup

Here’s a printable recipe card for your convenience:

Final Thoughts: Soup Perfection Achieved!

There you have it – my absolute best Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta Soup recipe! I truly believe that this soup is a winner, and I know you’ll agree once you give it a try. It’s the perfect combination of comforting, flavorful, and easy to make. So grab your pot, gather your ingredients, and get ready to create a soup that will warm your heart and soul. Happy cooking!

Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta Soup

Amelia

This Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta Soup is a comforting and flavorful hug in a bowl, perfect for a chilly evening. It features tender chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, and a rich, creamy broth infused with irresistible Cajun spices.

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Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 40 minutes mins

Total Time 55 minutes mins

Course Main Course

Cuisine Cajun

Servings 6

Calories 450 kcal

Equipment

• Large pot or Dutch oven
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Measuring cups
• Measuring spoons
• Ladle
• Mixing spoon

Ingredients

  

• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 stalks celery, chopped
• 2 medium carrots, chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 8 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup ditalini pasta
• 2-3 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 bay leaf
• 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
• ½ cup heavy cream
• 2-3 green onions, thinly sliced
• Salt to taste
• Black pepper to taste
• Optional: Diced bell peppers
• Optional: Corn
• Optional: Spinach
• Optional: Kale

Instructions

 

• If using raw chicken, cut it into bite-sized pieces.
• Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
• Add the onion, celery, and carrots and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally.
• Add the minced garlic, Cajun seasoning, dried thyme, and dried oregano to the pot and cook for another minute, until fragrant.
• If using raw chicken, add it to the pot and cook until browned on all sides. It doesn’t need to be cooked through at this point.
• Pour in the chicken broth and add the bay leaf. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through (if using raw chicken). If using pre-cooked chicken, simmer for just 10 minutes to let the flavors meld.
• Stir in the ditalini pasta and cook according to package directions, usually about 8-10 minutes, or until al dente. Make sure to stir occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking to the bottom of the pot.
• Remove the bay leaf.
• Reduce the heat to low. Add the softened cream cheese and stir until completely melted and smooth. Then, stir in the heavy cream. Do not boil the soup after adding the cream!
• Season with salt and pepper to taste. Remember that Cajun seasoning can be salty, so start with a little and add more as needed.
• Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with sliced green onions. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Notes

For the best flavor, use a high-quality Cajun seasoning blend. Adjust the amount of Cajun seasoning to your preferred spice level. Softened cream cheese is key to a smooth and creamy texture. To prevent the pasta from becoming mushy, cook it al dente and add it to the soup just before serving. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze the soup without the pasta; add freshly cooked pasta when reheating.