This Cajun Chicken Soup Pasta is a fun and hearty dish! It combines juicy chicken, colorful veggies, and pasta all in one delicious bowl, spiced up with Cajun seasoning.
You’ll love how cozy it feels—perfect for chilly days! I like to add a sprinkle of cheese on top before digging in. It’s a hit at my dinner table every time! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are great for this recipe. If you’re short on time, shredded rotisserie chicken works perfectly too! For a healthier option, you could use turkey or a combination of beans for a vegetarian twist.
Cajun Seasoning: Homemade Cajun seasoning can be fun to make with spices like paprika, garlic powder, and cayenne. If you need a milder flavor, use less or substitute with Italian seasoning. Also, try remaking it with a pinch of chili powder.
Half-and-Half/Heavy Cream: For a lighter version, you can use whole milk or plant-based milk like almond or oat milk, though it might not be as creamy. Just watch the heat to prevent curdling.
Pasta: The penne pasta is a great choice, but feel free to swap with any pasta like fusilli or rotini. Gluten-free pasta can work well too for those with dietary restrictions.
Cheese: Monterey Jack or mozzarella are both excellent, but you could switch to cheddar for a sharper taste. Vegan cheese is also an option if you’re keeping it dairy-free.
How Do I Get the Chicken Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking the chicken right is key in this soup. Start by heating the olive oil to medium heat before adding the chicken. This ensures a nice sear and keeps the meat juicy.
- Cut the chicken into even pieces to help it cook uniformly.
- Don’t overcrowd the pot—this helps in browning the chicken instead of steaming it.
- Cook until the chicken is no longer pink in the center, usually about 5-7 minutes.
- Let it rest for a moment after removing it from the pot to keep it juicy when you add it back into the soup.
By focusing on these ingredients and techniques, your Cajun Chicken Soup Pasta will surely be a hit! Enjoy making it!
How to Make Cajun Chicken Soup Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning (store-bought or homemade)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
- 1/2 cup chopped green bell pepper
- 1/2 cup chopped red bell pepper
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 cup half-and-half or heavy cream
- 1 cup cooked penne pasta
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh spinach or kale
- 1/4 cup cooked and crumbled bacon (optional)
- 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack or mozzarella cheese
- Fresh parsley or green onions for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Cajun Chicken Soup Pasta can be made in about 30 minutes! You’ll spend roughly 10 minutes on prep, and the cooking time is about 20 minutes. It’s a quick and satisfying meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Start with the Chicken:
Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once hot, add the diced chicken, and sprinkle in the Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cook the chicken for about 5-7 minutes until it’s browned and cooked through. When done, remove the chicken from the pot and set it aside.
2. Sauté the Vegetables:
In the same pot, toss in the chopped onions, green bell pepper, and red bell pepper. Sauté them for about 4-5 minutes until they’re softened. Next, add the minced garlic and cook for just another minute until you can smell its delicious aroma.
3. Add the Broth and Tomatoes:
Pour in the chicken broth and the undrained can of diced tomatoes. Stir well to mix everything, and bring the mixture to a boil.
4. Cream It Up:
Lower the heat to a simmer and stir in the half-and-half (or heavy cream). Return the cooked chicken back into the pot and give it a good mix.
5. Mix in the Pasta:
Add the cooked penne pasta and the chopped fresh spinach (or kale) to the pot. Let the soup simmer for another 5 minutes so all the flavors can meld together and the greens can wilt.
6. Optional – Add Bacon:
If you like, now is the time to sprinkle in some crumbled cooked bacon for an extra smoky flavor. This step is optional but definitely adds a nice touch!
7. Serve & Enjoy:
Serve your soup hot with a generous topping of shredded cheese and garnish with fresh parsley or green onions. It’s a delightful, creamy, and spicy meal that’s easy to enjoy!
Enjoy this creamy, spicy Cajun Chicken Soup Pasta as a comforting all-in-one bowl meal!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken in This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but be sure to thaw it completely first! A quick way to thaw is by placing it in a sealed bag and submerging it in cold water for about an hour. Just remember to pat it dry before cooking for the best results.
Can I Make This Dish Vegetarian?
Absolutely! To make it vegetarian, simply substitute the chicken with your choice of hearty vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or chickpeas. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and skip the bacon for a delicious, meat-free meal.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove or in the microwave. You may need to add a splash of broth or water to get the soup back to your desired consistency!
Can I Use Different Pasta?
Yes, feel free to use any pasta you have on hand! Short pasta like rotini or elbow macaroni works well, and if you need a gluten-free option, there are many gluten-free pastas available. Just adjust the cooking time based on the pasta you choose.
