Description
Rich and spicy Cajun chicken pasta soup delivers hearty comfort with a Louisiana-inspired twist. Simmering with bold spices and tender chicken, this soup promises a satisfying meal that warms you from the inside out.
Ingredients
Scale
Proteins:
- 1 pound chicken breasts or tenders
- 1 cup freshly grated parmesan
Main Ingredients:
- 5 cups chicken stock (or 4 cups chicken stock + 1 cup water)
- 1 14.5-ounce can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 cup ditalini or other small pasta, dry
- 1 cup heavy cream, at or close to room temperature
Seasonings and Aromatics:
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 small white onion, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning, divided
- 1 tablespoon neutral oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Green onions, sliced, to garnish
Instructions
- Melt butter in a large Dutch oven over medium-high temperature, creating a golden, bubbling base for the aromatic foundation of the soup.
- Introduce finely chopped onions and minced garlic, sautéing until they become translucent and release their fragrant essence, then sprinkle in the first portion of Cajun seasoning to infuse deep, spicy notes.
- Pour in broth, diced tomatoes, and heavy cream, transforming the base into a rich, creamy liquid. Elevate the heat to bring the mixture to a rolling boil, then reduce to a gentle simmer.
- Cascade dry pasta into the bubbling mixture, stirring consistently to prevent any potential scorching and ensure even cooking. Allow the pasta to become tender and absorb the vibrant flavors.
- Meanwhile, prepare the chicken by generously coating it with the remaining Cajun seasoning, ensuring complete coverage for maximum flavor intensity.
- In a separate skillet, create a shimmering oil surface and carefully place the seasoned chicken. Cook each side until golden brown and perfectly cooked through, developing a delectable exterior.
- Transfer the cooked chicken to a cutting board, letting it rest briefly before slicing into mouth-watering, bite-sized morsels.
- Reduce the soup’s temperature to low, gently folding in freshly grated parmesan to create a luxurious, creamy texture.
- Introduce the chopped chicken into the soup, allowing it to meld with the surrounding flavors during a short, gentle simmer.
- Fine-tune the seasoning with salt and pepper, tasting and adjusting to personal preference.
- Ladle the steaming soup into serving bowls, optional garnishing with delicate green onion slices for a fresh, vibrant finish.
Notes
- Cajun seasoning is the star ingredient, providing a bold, spicy kick that transforms this soup from ordinary to extraordinary.
- Cooking pasta directly in the soup creates a rich, creamy texture while allowing the noodles to absorb maximum flavor from the broth.
- Searing chicken in a separate skillet ensures a perfectly golden exterior and juicy interior before adding to the soup.
- Stirring frequently prevents pasta from sticking and burning, maintaining a smooth, consistent soup base.
- Parmesan cheese adds a luxurious creaminess and depth of flavor that complements the Cajun spices beautifully.
- Optional green onion garnish provides a fresh, crisp contrast to the hearty and creamy soup.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dinner, Lunch
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Cajun
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 6
- Calories: 540
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 950 mg
- Fat: 30 g
- Saturated Fat: 17 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 41 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 32 g
- Cholesterol: 150 mg