Creamy Parmesan Cajun Chicken Pasta Soup Ingredients: 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 (use gluten-free for gluten-free version) 8 ounces pasta (such as ditalini or shells; use gluten-free if needed) 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional) 1/3 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 Directions: Heat the oil in a large saucepan over medium-high heat. Season the chicken with Cajun seasoning and cook for 2-4 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove from the pot and set aside. In the same saucepan, melt the butter. Add the onion, celery, and bell pepper, cooking until tender, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the garlic, thyme, and an additional tablespoon of Cajun seasoning. Cook until fragrant, about 1 minute. Pour in the chicken broth, add the chicken back to the pot along with the diced tomatoes, Worcestershire sauce, and pasta. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for about 7 minutes or until the pasta is al dente. Remove the chicken, slice or shred it, then return it to the pot. Turn off the heat, stir in the cream and Parmesan cheese, and let the cheese melt into the broth. Finish by adding lemon juice, parsley, and green onions if desired. Season with cayenne, salt, and pepper to taste. Serve warm and enjoy! Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 30 minutes | Total Time: 45 minutes | Calories: 460 kcal | Servings: 6 This Creamy Parmesan Cajun Chicken Pasta Soup brings together the warming flavors of Cajun spices, tender pieces of chicken, and a rich, creamy broth. The addition of Parmesan cheese adds depth, while the hint of lemon juice and fresh herbs balance the richness with a bright finish. Each spoonful is packed with flavor, offering the perfect cozy meal for cooler days. Ideal for a comforting weeknight dinner or a hearty lunch, this soup is versatile and customizable. Add more cayenne if you prefer extra heat or omit the cream for a lighter version. Serve it with crusty bread to soak up every bit of the delicious broth. Its a satisfying, one-pot meal thats easy to make and sure to warm your soul.
