This Cajun Chicken Soup Pasta is a hearty dish packed with bold flavors! Juicy chicken, spicy Cajun seasonings, and tender pasta come together in a flavorful broth that warms the soul.
You won’t believe how easy it is to whip this up! It’s like a hug in a bowl, perfect for chilly days or any day when you need a little comfort. Just throw in your ingredients and let it simmer!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: I recommend using boneless, skinless chicken breasts for a lean option. You can also use thighs for more flavor! If you want a vegetarian twist, substitute with chickpeas or a plant-based chicken alternative.
Cajun Seasoning: This blend adds great spice! If you don’t have Cajun seasoning, mix equal parts paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of cayenne pepper for a quick substitute.
Pasta: Rotini is perfect for this dish as its curves catch all the sauce. However, any small pasta like penne, fusilli, or even macaroni works well.
Heavy Cream: For a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or coconut milk for a dairy-free version. It will still be creamy and delicious!
How Do You Make Sure the Chicken Stays Juicy?
To keep your chicken tender, avoid overcooking it. Here’s how to do it right:
- First, season the chicken before cooking to enhance its flavor.
- Make sure your oil is hot enough before adding the chicken – this helps create a nice sear and locks in moisture.
- Cook in batches if your pot is crowded. Overcrowding can steam the chicken instead of browning it.
- Finally, take the chicken out as soon as it’s cooked through and set it aside to prevent it from drying out.
Cajun Chicken Soup Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning, divided
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup rotini pasta (uncooked)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and approximately 25 minutes to cook. So, in just about 40 minutes, you’ll have a comforting and delicious Cajun Chicken Soup Pasta ready to serve!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Chicken:
Start by seasoning the chicken pieces with 1 tablespoon of Cajun seasoning. Give it a good mix to ensure the chicken is well-coated. Set it aside for a moment while you prepare the rest of the ingredients.
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 pieces. Cook them for about 5-7 minutes, or until they’re browned and cooked through. Once done, remove the chicken from the pot and set it aside on a plate.
3. Sauté Vegetables:
In the same pot, toss in the chopped onion and diced green and red bell peppers. Sauté for about 4-5 minutes, or until they have softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, just until it’s fragrant—this really adds flavor!
4. Add Liquids and Seasonings:
Now, stir in the diced tomatoes (with all their juices), chicken broth, dried thyme, smoked paprika, the remaining 1 tablespoon of Cajun seasoning, and season with salt and black pepper to taste. Raise the heat and bring this mixture to a boil.
5. Cook the Pasta:
Once boiling, add the uncooked rotini pasta into the pot. Reduce the heat to medium and cook for about 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking, until the pasta is al dente.
6. Combine Chicken and Cream:
Return the cooked chicken to the pot. Then, stir in the heavy cream. Let it simmer gently for about 3-5 minutes, until the soup slightly thickens and is heated through. Taste it and adjust any seasonings as needed!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your flavorful Cajun Chicken Soup Pasta hot, and don’t forget to top it with grated Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of fresh parsley! Enjoy every warm, cozy bite!
Can I Use Different Types of Chicken?
Absolutely! You can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs for a juicier option, or even rotisserie chicken for a quicker meal. Just add the chicken towards the end to heat through.
Can I Make This Dish Spicier?
If you like it spicy, consider adding crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce when cooking. You can also increase the amount of Cajun seasoning to suit your heat preference!
How Long Will Leftovers Last?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or cream if it thickens too much.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
Certainly! Substitute the chicken with chickpeas or a plant-based meat alternative, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. The veggies and spices will still provide plenty of flavor!
