This Creamy Parmesan Cajun Chicken Pasta Soup is a comforting and flavorful dish filled with spicy Cajun seasoning, tender chicken, and rich parmesan. It’s a one-pot soup that comes together in just 30 minutes—perfect for a cozy, satisfying dinner!
1 tablespoon oil
1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
1 tablespoon butter
1 cup onion, diced
1 cup celery, diced
1 cup bell pepper, diced
4 cloves garlic, chopped
1 teaspoon thyme, chopped
1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
6 cups chicken broth
1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes (optional)
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
8 ounces pasta (such as ditalini or shells)
½ cup heavy cream (optional)
⅓ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional)
2 tablespoons parsley, chopped (optional)
2 green onions, thinly sliced (optional)
Cayenne, salt, and pepper, to taste
Cook the Chicken:
Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Season the chicken with Cajun seasoning and cook until golden brown, about 2-4 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.
Sauté Vegetables:
In the same pot, melt butter, then add onion, celery, and bell pepper. Cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
Add Seasoning:
Stir in garlic, thyme, and Cajun seasoning and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
Simmer the Soup:
Pour in chicken broth, diced tomatoes (if using), Worcestershire sauce, and pasta. Return the chicken to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until pasta is al dente, about 7 minutes.
Shred the Chicken:
Remove the chicken, shred or slice it, and return it to the pot.
Make It Creamy:
Turn off the heat, stir in heavy cream and Parmesan, and let it melt into the broth.
Finish & Serve:
Stir in lemon juice, parsley, and green onions. Season with cayenne, salt, and pepper to taste. Serve hot and enjoy!
If you prefer a more intense Cajun flavor, feel free to add extra Cajun seasoning.
For a spicier kick, sprinkle in more cayenne pepper or add red pepper flakes.
The heavy cream is optional but makes the soup extra creamy and rich.