Creamy Parmesan Cajun Chicken Pasta Soup Recipe

Dreamy Creamy Parmesan Cajun Chicken Pasta Soup Recipe

Comfort meets excitement in this creamy parmesan cajun chicken pasta soup that promises a culinary adventure for spice enthusiasts.

Robust flavors dance across your palate with every spoonful of this hearty dish.

Creamy textures blend seamlessly with bold cajun seasonings, creating a symphony of taste sensations.

Chicken becomes the perfect protein partner in this soul-warming recipe that breaks traditional soup boundaries.

Parmesan adds a luxurious depth, melting into each bite with irresistible complexity.

Pasta brings familiar comfort while cajun spices inject unexpected excitement into every mouthful.

Flavor Options For Cajun Chicken Pasta Soup

  • Gluten-Free Pasta Delight: Swap regular pasta with gluten-free alternatives like rice pasta or quinoa pasta for those with wheat sensitivities.
  • Vegetarian Protein Boost: Replace chicken with firm tofu, chickpeas, or plant-based chicken substitutes seasoned with Cajun spices for a meatless version.
  • Low-Carb Cauliflower Remix: Substitute pasta with cauliflower rice or spiralized zucchini noodles to reduce carbohydrate content while maintaining rich flavors.
  • Dairy-Free Creamy Option: Use coconut cream instead of heavy cream and nutritional yeast in place of parmesan cheese to create a lactose-free alternative that's equally rich and satisfying.

How To Serve Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta Soup

  • Cozy Soup Companions: Crusty bread slices perfect for dipping into the rich, creamy broth, soaking up all those delicious Cajun flavors.
  • Zesty Side Kick: Fresh green salad with a tangy vinaigrette to balance the soup's creamy and spicy profile, adding a crisp contrast.
  • Hearty Protein Boost: Sprinkle extra crispy bacon bits or andouille sausage on top for added texture and a smoky Louisiana-style punch.
  • Wine Pairing Wonder: Crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a light Chardonnay to complement the soup's creamy and spicy notes.

Storage Advice For Cajun Chicken Pasta Soup

  • Transfer cooled soup to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Keep the soup sealed tightly to maintain freshness and prevent absorption of other food odors.
  • Pour completely cooled soup into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags, leaving about an inch of space for expansion. Freeze for up to 2-3 months. Pro tip: Separate chicken and pasta when freezing to prevent texture breakdown.
  • Pour soup into a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring between each interval until heated thoroughly. Add a splash of chicken broth if the soup seems too thick.

FAQs

  • What type of Cajun seasoning works best in this recipe?

Store-bought Cajun blends like Tony Chachere’s or McCormick work great, but homemade seasoning with paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne, oregano, and thyme also creates amazing flavor.

  • Can I use a different protein instead of chicken?

Yes, you can substitute chicken with shrimp, turkey, or even tofu for a different protein option while maintaining the Cajun flavor profile.

  • Is this soup spicy?

The spice level depends on your Cajun seasoning. If you prefer mild, use less Cajun seasoning or choose a mild blend. For more heat, add extra cayenne pepper or use a spicier Cajun seasoning.

Creamy Parmesan Cajun Chicken Pasta Soup: Comforting And Rich

  • Boost Flavor Quickly: Cajun seasoning and unique spices transform ordinary chicken pasta into a zesty, mouthwatering soup packed with bold Louisiana-style taste.
  • Customize with Ease: Multiple optional ingredients like andouille sausage, cream cheese, or bacon allow personalization, letting home cooks adapt the recipe to their preferences and pantry supplies.
  • Versatile Cooking Methods: Prepare this comforting soup on the stovetop or in a slow cooker, making it perfect for busy weeknights or leisurely weekend meals with minimal cooking skills required.
  • One-Pot Wonder: Minimal dishes and straightforward steps mean less cleanup, with all ingredients coming together seamlessly in a single pot for maximum convenience and minimal kitchen mess.

Ingredients For Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta Soup

Protein:
  • Chicken: Tender meat that provides the main protein base for the soup.
  • Andouille Sausage: Optional spicy sausage that adds extra flavor and protein.
  • Bacon: Optional crispy ingredient that enhances the overall taste profile.
Vegetables and Aromatics:
  • Onion, Celery, Bell Pepper: Classic vegetable blend that creates a flavorful soup base.
  • Garlic: Aromatic ingredient that adds depth to the soup's flavor.
  • Green Onions: Fresh garnish that provides a mild onion flavor.
  • Parsley: Herb that adds a fresh, bright note to the final dish.
Liquid and Seasoning Components:
  • Chicken Broth: Foundational liquid that creates the soup's base.
  • Diced Tomatoes: Adds acidity and texture to the soup.
  • Cream: Provides a rich and creamy consistency.
  • Parmesan Cheese: Adds a salty and nutty flavor to the soup.
  • Cream Cheese: Optional ingredient that increases creaminess.
  • Worcestershire Sauce: Adds depth and umami flavor.
  • Lemon Juice: Brightens the overall flavor profile.
  • Cajun Seasoning, Old Bay Seasoning: Spice blends that provide warmth and complexity.
  • Thyme: Herb that adds earthy undertones.
  • Cayenne, Salt, Pepper: Seasonings for adjusting heat and overall taste.
  • Butter, Olive Oil: Cooking fats that help develop flavors.
  • Pasta: Adds substance and makes the soup more filling.

Step-By-Step For Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta Soup

Step-By-Step For Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta Soup

Step 1: Sear The Chicken

Brown the chicken pieces in hot oil using Cajun seasoning until golden and cooked through.

Set the chicken aside on a plate.

Step 2: Sauté Vegetable Base

In the same pan, melt butter and cook:
  • Onions
  • Celery
  • Bell peppers

Sauté until vegetables become soft and translucent.

Step 3: Build Aromatic Foundation

Add garlic, thyme, and additional Cajun seasoning.

Stir and cook until fragrant, releasing deep flavors.

Step 4: Create Soup Liquid

Pour in:
  • Chicken broth
  • Diced tomatoes
  • Worcestershire sauce

Add the cooked chicken and pasta.

Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until pasta reaches perfect tenderness.

Step 5: Prepare Chicken

Remove chicken from the pot, slice or shred into bite-sized pieces, then return to the soup.

Step 6: Finish With Creamy Richness

Turn off heat.

Stir in:
  • Heavy cream
  • Parmesan cheese

Allow cheese to melt completely into the broth.

Step 7: Final Seasoning

Add fresh:
  • Lemon juice
  • Chopped parsley
  • Green onions

Season with cayenne, salt, and pepper to personal preference.

Tips For Velvety Cajun Chicken Pasta Soup

  • Pat chicken dry before adding Cajun seasoning to ensure a golden-brown, crispy exterior that locks in maximum flavor.
  • Adjust Cajun seasoning and cayenne according to your heat tolerance, starting with less and adding gradually.
  • Warm cream cheese slightly before adding to prevent curdling and create a smoother, richer soup texture.
  • Swap chicken with andouille sausage or add crispy bacon crumbles for extra depth and smoky undertones.
  • Make this soup in a slow cooker for hands-off cooking, perfect for busy weeknights or meal planning.
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Creamy Parmesan Cajun Chicken Pasta Soup Recipe

Creamy Parmesan Cajun Chicken Pasta Soup Recipe


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4.8 from 25 reviews

  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 6 1x

Description

Creamy parmesan cajun chicken pasta soup delivers a spicy southern comfort in one hearty bowl. Simmering with bold flavors and rich textures, this Louisiana-inspired dish promises a satisfying meal you’ll crave again and again.


Ingredients

Scale

Protein:

  • 1 pound boneless and skinless chicken breasts or thighs
  • 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning

Vegetables and Aromatics:

  • 1 cup onion (diced)
  • 1 cup celery (diced)
  • 1 cup bell pepper (diced)
  • 4 cloves garlic (chopped)
  • 1 teaspoon thyme (chopped)

Liquid and Additional Ingredients:

  • 1 tablespoon oil
  • 1 tablespoon butter
  • 6 cups chicken broth
  • 1 14.5 ounce can diced tomatoes (optional)
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce (gluten-free for gluten-free)
  • 8 ounces of pasta (such as ditalini or shells (gluten-free for gluten-free))
  • 1/2 cup heavy/whipping cream (optional)
  • 1/3 cup parmigiano Reggiano (parmesan cheese, grated)
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional)
  • 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
  • 2 tablespoons parsley (chopped (optional))
  • 2 green onions (thinly sliced (optional))
  • cayenne (salt and pepper to taste)

Instructions

  1. Sear chicken seasoned with Cajun spices in hot oil until golden brown, approximately 2-4 minutes per side, then set aside.
  2. In the same pan, melt butter and sauté onion, celery, and bell pepper until softened, around 5-7 minutes.
  3. Incorporate garlic, thyme, and additional Cajun seasoning, cooking until aromatic.
  4. Pour in broth, add diced tomatoes, Worcestershire sauce, chicken, and pasta. Bring to a rolling boil, then reduce heat and simmer until pasta reaches al dente texture, roughly 7 minutes.
  5. Extract chicken from soup, slice or shred into bite-sized pieces, then return to pot.
  6. Remove from heat, stir in cream and parmesan, allowing cheese to melt seamlessly into broth.
  7. Finish with fresh lemon juice, chopped parsley, and green onions. Season with cayenne, salt, and pepper to personal preference.
  8. For slow cooker method, complete initial sautéing steps, transfer ingredients to slow cooker, and cook on LOW for 6-10 hours or HIGH for 2-4 hours.
  9. Add pasta during final cooking stage, ensuring tenderness.
  10. Optional variations: incorporate old bay seasoning, cream cheese, andouille sausage, or crumbled bacon for enhanced flavor complexity.

Notes

  • Adjust Cajun seasoning levels to match your heat tolerance, starting with less and gradually adding more for perfect flavor balance.
  • Choose short pasta shapes like penne or rotini that hold sauce well and provide delightful texture in every spoonful.
  • Swap chicken with shrimp, turkey, or plant-based alternatives for diverse dietary preferences without compromising taste.
  • If soup becomes too thick, thin with additional broth or water, ensuring a silky smooth texture that’s not overwhelming.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Lunch, Dinner
  • Method: Sautéing
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 6
  • Calories: 307 kcal
  • Sugar: 3 g
  • Sodium: 670 mg
  • Fat: 12 g
  • Saturated Fat: 6 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
  • Trans Fat: 0.1 g
  • Carbohydrates: 25 g
  • Fiber: 2 g
  • Protein: 27 g
  • Cholesterol: 80 mg
Natalie Brooks

Natalie Brooks

Co-Founder & Content Strategist

Expertise

  • Vegan and plant-based recipe creation
  • Meal planning and nutritional analysis
  • Storytelling through blog content, video, and social media

Education

eCornell

  • Program: Plant-Based Nutrition Certificate
  • Focus: Whole-food, plant-based cooking, with a foundation in nutritional science and sustainable eating habits.

Natalie brings the vibrant, plant-powered side to Culinary Duo. After earning her Plant-Based Nutrition Certificate from eCornell, she combined her love for fresh ingredients with a passion for storytelling, aiming to make healthy cooking simple and satisfying.
Her kitchen motto: good food doesn’t need a fancy label, it just needs fresh ideas and a little creativity. Outside of writing and recipe testing, Natalie’s happiest in her garden, exploring farmers’ markets, or mixing global flavors into new kitchen experiments.

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