Creamy Parmesan Cajun Chicken Pasta Soup

Creamy Parmesan Cajun Chicken Pasta Soup is a bold, flavorful fusion of spicy Cajun-seasoned chicken, tender pasta, and rich, cheesy broth. It’s everything you love about creamy Cajun pasta, turned into a cozy, hearty soup that’s perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or whenever you need a little comfort in a bowl.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Spicy, savory, and creamy all in one bowl
• A fun twist on Cajun chicken pasta, made into soup
• One-pot, easy cleanup
• Ready in under an hour
• Great for leftovers and meal prep

Ingredients

this Recipe

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

• Chicken breasts or thighs, diced
• Cajun seasoning
• Olive oil or butter
• Onion, diced
• Garlic, minced
• Bell peppers (red or yellow), diced
• Chicken broth
• Heavy cream or half-and-half
• Parmesan cheese, grated
• Pasta (penne, rotini, or small shells)
• Salt and pepper
• Fresh parsley or green onions for garnish

Directions

1. Season the diced chicken generously with Cajun seasoning.
2. In a large pot, heat olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
3. In the same pot, sauté diced onion and bell peppers until softened, about 4–5 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute more.
4. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil. Add pasta and cook until al dente, stirring occasionally.
5. Reduce heat to low. Stir in heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese until smooth and creamy.
6. Return the chicken to the pot and stir to combine. Simmer for a few more minutes to let the flavors meld.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Adjust Cajun seasoning if more spice is desired.
8. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley or green onions.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes

Variations

• Extra Spicy: Add cayenne pepper or hot sauce for more heat.
• Add Veggies: Mix in spinach, mushrooms, or corn for more texture.
• Cheese Mix: Try adding a blend of mozzarella or Monterey Jack for a gooier soup.
• Use Sausage: Substitute chicken with smoked or andouille sausage for a Cajun twist.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta and check the Cajun seasoning for added flour.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
• Reheating: Reheat gently on the stove or microwave. Add a splash of broth or cream to loosen the texture.

FAQs

What pasta works best for this soup?

Short pasta like penne, rotini, or shells hold up well and soak up the creamy broth.

Can I use pre-cooked chicken?

Yes, just add it after the broth and pasta are cooked to warm through.

Is this soup very spicy?

It depends on your Cajun seasoning. Adjust the amount to control the heat.

Can I make it dairy-free?

Use coconut cream and a dairy-free Parmesan substitute.

Can I freeze this soup?

It’s best fresh, but you can freeze it. Note that the cream and pasta may change texture slightly when reheated.

How do I thicken the soup?

Let it simmer uncovered for a few extra minutes or add more Parmesan cheese.

Can I use milk instead of cream?

Yes, but the soup will be lighter and less rich. Whole milk works best.

What can I serve with this soup?

Crusty bread, garlic toast, or a fresh green salad are great sides.

Can I make it ahead of time?

Yes, it stores and reheats well—just cook the pasta slightly under to avoid mushiness later.

What’s the best way to add more flavor?

Use a strong Cajun seasoning, sauté everything in butter, and don’t skimp on the Parmesan.

Conclusion

Creamy Parmesan Cajun Chicken Pasta Soup is a rich, spicy, and comforting twist on a classic pasta dish. It delivers big flavors with minimal effort, making it perfect for busy nights or when you’re craving something hearty and delicious. One pot, bold taste, and plenty of cheesy goodness—this soup is sure to become a favorite.

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