If you have been craving a soul-satisfying bowl that perfectly balances spice, creaminess, and comforting pasta, then this Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta Soup Recipe is exactly what you need. Imagine tender chicken seasoned with bold Cajun spices swimming in a rich, velvety broth infused with robust garlic and onion flavors, softened diced tomatoes, and perfectly cooked pasta. This soup doesn’t just warm you up, it fills you up with pure deliciousness and layers of texture and flavor that feel like a warm hug in a bowl. Whether it’s a cozy weeknight dinner or something to impress guests, this recipe always steals the spotlight.

Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta Soup Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

These straightforward ingredients come together in harmony, each bringing essential flavor depth, creamy texture, or vibrant color to your soup. From the buttery sautéed aromatics to the sharp Parmesan finish, every element plays a key role in making this recipe outstanding.

2 tablespoons butter: Provides a rich, savory base for sautéing the onion and garlic, enhancing aroma and flavor.
1 small white onion, chopped: Adds sweetness and body to the soup’s foundation.
4 cloves garlic, minced: Brings that irresistible punch of pungency and warmth.
2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning, divided: Infuses the soup and chicken with smoky, spicy, and slightly earthy notes—key for that authentic Cajun vibe.
5 cups chicken stock (or 4 cups stock + 1 cup water): The flavorful liquid backbone that carries all ingredients.
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained: Adds acidity, moisture, and a subtle sweetness to balance the heat.
1 cup heavy cream: Gives the soup its luscious creaminess that rounds out spicy edges.
1 cup ditalini or other small pasta, dry: Provides tender bites and satisfying texture.
1 pound chicken breasts or tenders, thinly sliced: The hearty protein star of the dish, soaking up all the Cajun flavors.
1 tablespoon neutral oil: Helps brown the chicken evenly without overpowering other flavors.
1 cup freshly grated Parmesan: Adds a nutty, salty complexity and creamy consistency when stirred in.
Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste: Essential seasonings that balance and enhance the entire dish.
Green onions, sliced for garnish: Freshness and a mild bite that brighten up each spoonful.

How to Make Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta Soup Recipe

Step 1: Sauté Aromatics

Start by melting butter in a large pot over medium-high heat until it’s shimmering. Toss in your chopped onion and minced garlic, then let them cook gently for about five minutes until the onion turns translucent and fragrant. This step lays down a flavorful base, and stirring in one tablespoon of Cajun seasoning now lets the spices bloom, infusing the aromatics with that signature smoky spice.

Step 2: Prepare Broth

Once your aromatics are perfectly soft, remove the pot from heat momentarily and pour in the chicken stock alongside the undrained diced tomatoes and heavy cream. Bringing the mixture back to a boil before reducing to a simmer creates that rich, creamy broth that’s bursting with flavor and a slight tang from the tomatoes. This combination is what makes the Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta Soup Recipe so comforting and full-bodied.

Step 3: Cook Pasta

Add the dry ditalini pasta straight into the simmering broth and cook it for about ten minutes, stirring regularly so it doesn’t stick to the bottom. As the pasta swells and softens, it absorbs the flavorful soup around it, marrying perfectly with the spices and creaminess to create a satisfyingly hearty texture in every spoonful.

Step 4: Cook Chicken

Meanwhile, season your thinly sliced chicken with the remaining tablespoon of Cajun seasoning. Heat a tablespoon of neutral oil in a skillet over medium and sear the chicken for 3-5 minutes on each side until golden and cooked through. Once done, chop into bite-sized pieces so they can evenly mix into the soup later. This step ensures the chicken stays juicy with a punch of seasoned crustiness.

Step 5: Finish Soup

Reduce the heat on your soup pot to low, then stir in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese. The cheese melts into the broth, thickening it slightly and adding a luxurious, savory depth. Add the cooked chicken pieces and let the soup simmer gently for another 2-3 minutes to meld all the flavors. Taste and adjust with salt and pepper, then you’re ready to serve your piping hot bowl of goodness.

How to Serve Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta Soup Recipe

Garnishes

Freshly sliced green onions sprinkled on top bring a bright, crisp contrast that cuts through the richness while adding a pop of color. For extra indulgence, a light drizzle of cream or a sprinkle of additional Parmesan feels like a decadent finishing touch you won’t want to skip.

Side Dishes

This soup is hearty enough to be a full meal on its own, but pairing it with warm crusty bread or garlic toast invites you to soak up every last drop of that delicious broth. A simple green salad with a zesty lemon vinaigrette creates a refreshing balance, especially if you want to keep things lighter.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve this Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta Soup Recipe in bread bowls to wow your guests. You can also sprinkle crispy bacon or roasted corn on top for exciting texture contrasts. Adding a few dashes of hot sauce or a squeeze of fresh lime juice lets you customize the spice and tang, personalizing the experience at your table.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place any leftover soup in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. Its flavors actually deepen overnight, making your next meal just as delightful as the first bowl.

Freezing

You can freeze this soup, but keep in mind that the pasta may become a bit softer upon thawing. To freeze, cool the soup completely and store it in a freezer-safe container for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently on the stove.

Reheating

Reheat your Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta Soup Recipe slowly over low to medium heat, stirring frequently to prevent the cream from separating and the pasta from sticking. If it thickens too much, stir in a splash of chicken stock or water to loosen it back up.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! While ditalini is perfect for soup because of its small size, you can substitute with elbow macaroni, small shells, or even orzo to suit your pantry or preference.

Is there a way to make this soup less spicy?

Yes, simply reduce the amount of Cajun seasoning or choose a milder blend. You can also omit the seasoning on the chicken and add it gradually to the soup, tasting as you go.

Can I make this recipe with leftover cooked chicken?

Definitely! If you have cooked chicken on hand, just add it into the soup near the end of cooking so it warms through without drying out.

What can I use instead of heavy cream?

You can substitute half-and-half or whole milk for a lighter version, but keep in mind the soup won’t be quite as rich and creamy as the original Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta Soup Recipe.

Is this soup freezer-friendly?

Yes, it freezes well, though the pasta may soften further. For the best texture, you could cook pasta separately and add it when reheating after thawing.

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta Soup Recipe has quickly become one of my absolute favorites because it hits every note: spicy, creamy, cheesy, and packed with comforting textures. It’s a simple yet impressive meal anyone can make any day of the week to turn a routine dinner into a flavorful celebration. I can’t wait for you to try it and experience that heartfelt deliciousness for yourself!

Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta Soup Recipe

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4.1 from 54 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x

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Description

This Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta Soup is a flavorful and comforting dish that combines tender Cajun-seasoned chicken, small pasta, and a creamy tomato-based broth. Perfect for a cozy meal, it balances savory spices with the richness of heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, garnished with fresh green onions for a burst of freshness.

Ingredients

Scale

Soup Base

2 tablespoons butter
1 small white onion, chopped
4 cloves garlic, minced
5 cups chicken stock (or 4 cups stock + 1 cup water)
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
1 cup heavy cream
1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning (from the 2 tablespoons divided)
Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Pasta

1 cup ditalini or other small pasta, dry

Chicken

1 pound chicken breasts or tenders, thinly sliced
1 tablespoon neutral oil
1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning (remaining portion)

Toppings

1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
Green onions, sliced for garnish

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Instructions

Sauté Aromatics: Heat the butter in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic and sauté for about 5 minutes until the onion is translucent and fragrant. Stir in 1 tablespoon of the Cajun seasoning to coat the aromatics evenly.
Prepare Broth: Remove the pot from heat temporarily, then stir in the chicken stock, undrained diced tomatoes, and heavy cream. Return the pot to heat, bring the mixture to a boil, and then reduce to a simmer to let the flavors meld.
Cook Pasta: Add the dry ditalini pasta directly to the simmering pot. Cook for about 10 minutes, stirring regularly to prevent sticking, until the pasta is tender but still slightly firm (al dente).
Cook Chicken: Meanwhile, season the thinly sliced chicken breasts or tenders with the remaining 1 tablespoon of Cajun seasoning. Heat the neutral oil in a skillet over medium heat and cook the chicken for 3-5 minutes per side until fully cooked through and slightly golden. Remove from heat and chop the chicken into bite-sized pieces.
Finish Soup: Reduce the heat of the soup to low. Stir in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese until melted and combined. Add the cooked chicken pieces to the pot and simmer gently for 2-3 minutes to warm through. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and freshly ground black pepper as needed. Garnish with sliced green onions and serve hot.

Notes

For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or milk, keeping in mind the soup will be less creamy.
If you prefer a spicier soup, add extra Cajun seasoning or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
Small pasta like ditalini works best to avoid overpowering the soup; other small shapes like orzo or elbow macaroni can be used interchangeably.
To save time, cook the chicken in advance or use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken, adding it at the end to warm through.
Leftovers store well for up to 3 days in the refrigerator, but pasta may absorb some broth, so you can add extra chicken stock or water when reheating.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Category: Soup
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American