Creamy Parmesan Cajun Chicken Pasta Soup

Ingredients

1 tablespoon oil

1 pound boneless and 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 (gluten-free from gluten-free)

8 ounces of pasta (such as ditalini or shells) (gluten-free from gluten-free)

1/2 cup heavy/whipping cream (optional)

1/3 cup parmigiano reggiano (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

Instructions:

Heat the oil in a large saucepan over medium-high heat, add the chicken, seasoned with the cajun seasoning, and cook until golden brown, about 2-4 minutes per side, before setting aside.

Melt the butter in the same saucepan before adding the onion, celery and bell pepper and cooking until tender, about 5-7 minutes.

Add the garlic, thyme, and cajun seasoning, and cook until fragrant, about a minute.

Add the broth, chicken, diced tomatoes, worcestershire sauce, and pasta, bring to a boil, reduce the heat and simmer until the pasta is al-dente tender, about 7 minutes.

Remove the chicken, slice or shred it, and return it to the pot.

Turn off the heat, add the cream and parmesan, mix and let the cheese melt into the broth.

Add the lemon juice, parsley and green onions, and season with cayenne, salt and pepper to taste before enjoying!

Notes:

Cajun Seasoning: Cajun seasoning is a blend of spices typically including paprika, cayenne, garlic powder, and thyme. You can adjust the heat level by varying the amount of cayenne pepper.

Chicken Choice: You can use either boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs in this recipe. Chicken thighs will add a richer flavor and tenderness to the soup.

Gluten-Free Options: To make this soup gluten-free, ensure that the Worcestershire sauce and pasta are gluten-free variants. Many Worcestershire sauces have gluten, so check the label for gluten-free alternatives.

Pasta Selection: Ditalini or shells are recommended for this soup, but feel free to use your favorite pasta shape. Use gluten-free pasta if needed.

Cream Substitute: If you prefer a lighter version of the soup, you can use half-and-half or milk instead of heavy cream.

Making in Advance: You can prepare the soup in advance, but add the pasta just before serving to prevent it from becoming too soft when reheating.

Cheese Substitutions: Parmigiano Reggiano can be substituted with other hard, aged cheeses like Pecorino Romano or a good-quality Parmesan cheese.

Lemon Juice: Adding lemon juice is optional but adds a bright, citrusy flavor that complements the richness of the soup.

Adjusting Spiciness: Customize the spiciness by adjusting the amount of cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper according to your taste preferences.

Storing and Reheating: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a little added broth or water to maintain the soup’s consistency.

Nutrition Facts:

YIELDS: 6 | SERVING SIZE: 1

Calories 498, Fat 19g (Saturated 8g, Trans 0), Cholesterol 100mg, Sodium 553mg, Carbs 46g (Fiber 4g, Sugars 10g), Protein 32g

Frequently Asked Questions:

What is Cajun seasoning, and can I make it at home?

Cajun seasoning is a spice blend with flavors like paprika, cayenne, garlic, and thyme.

You can make it at home by combining these spices in the right proportions.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts in this recipe?

Yes, you can use boneless and skinless chicken thighs as a substitute for chicken breasts.

Thighs add a slightly different flavor and tenderness.

Is there a gluten-free option for worcestershire sauce?

Yes, there are gluten-free worcestershire sauce options available.

Ensure to check the product label if you have dietary restrictions.

What type of pasta is best for this soup?

Ditalini or shells work well in this recipe, but you can choose any pasta shape you prefer.

If you have gluten-free dietary needs, use a gluten-free pasta.

Is heavy cream necessary for this soup, and can I use a substitute?

Heavy cream adds richness, but you can omit it or use a lighter substitute like half-and-half or milk if you prefer a lighter version.

Can I make this soup in advance?

Yes, you can make the soup in advance, but it’s advisable to add the pasta just before serving to prevent it from becoming too soft.

What can I substitute for parmigiano reggiano?

You can substitute parmigiano reggiano with other hard, aged cheeses like Pecorino Romano or a good-quality Parmesan.

Is the lemon juice optional, and what does it add to the soup?

Lemon juice is optional but adds a bright, citrusy flavor that complements the richness of the soup. It enhances the overall taste.

Can I adjust the spiciness of the soup?

Absolutely! Adjust the cayenne, salt, and pepper to your desired level of spiciness. Start with a small amount and taste before adding more.

How should I store and reheat leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat on the stovetop over low to medium heat, adding a little broth or water to maintain the soup’s consistency.