Creamy Cajun Chicken Soup – Spicy, Comforting & Full of Flavor
Warm up with this Creamy Cajun Chicken Soup! Tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and a rich, spicy creamy broth come together for a hearty, comforting meal. Perfect for weeknight dinners, family meals, or when you crave a flavorful, soul-warming soup with a Cajun kick.
Equipment
- Large soup pot or Dutch oven
- Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
- Chef’s knife + cutting board
- Measuring cups & spoons
- Blender or immersion blender (optional for smoother soup)
- Ladle & bowls for serving
Ingredients
Soup Base:
- 1 lb (450 g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 2 tbsp butter or oil
- 1 large onion, diced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 2 carrots, diced
- 3–4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tsp paprika
- ½–1 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 bay leaf
- 4 cups (960 ml) chicken broth
- 1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream or half-and-half
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Optional: 1 cup corn, ½ lb Andouille sausage slices, or cooked rice/pasta for heartiness
- Fresh parsley or green onions for garnish
Instructions
- Sauté Vegetables: Melt butter or heat oil in a large pot. Add onions, bell pepper, celery, and carrots. Cook until softened, ~5–7 minutes.
- Cook Chicken: Add chicken to the pot. Sear until golden, or poach briefly. Remove and shred or dice if desired.
- Add Spices: Stir in paprika, cayenne, thyme, oregano, garlic, and bay leaf. Cook 1–2 minutes to release aroma.
- Simmer in Broth: Pour in chicken broth, covering ingredients. Simmer 15–20 minutes to meld flavors.
- Add Cream & Thicken: Reduce heat and stir in cream. For thicker soup, gradually add a roux or cornstarch slurry.
- Return Chicken: Add shredded or diced chicken back to the soup. Adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or additional spices.
- Optional Add-ins: Incorporate corn, Andouille sausage, rice, or pasta as desired.
- Garnish & Serve: Sprinkle with fresh parsley or green onions. Serve with crusty bread, rice, or cornbread.
Notes
- Spice Adjustment: Increase or decrease cayenne or paprika to control heat.
- Cream Substitutions: Use milk or half-and-half for lighter versions.
- Vegetarian Option: Replace chicken with hearty vegetables and beans.
- Storage: Refrigerate in airtight container up to 4 days; freeze portions up to 3 months. Reheat gently over low heat.
- Serving Tips: Swirl cream or sprinkle paprika for visual appeal; serve with bread or over rice for a complete meal.
- Flavor Boost: Toast spices in butter or oil before adding broth to enhance aroma.