Creamy Cajun Chicken Soup brings together bold flavors and comforting textures for a memorable meal. This soup starts with the holy trinity of Cajun cooking—onions, celery, and bell peppers—sautéed in butter for a flavorful base. Garlic and Cajun seasoning add depth and spice. The broth is enriched with chicken stock and diced tomatoes, providing the perfect medium for tender, seared chicken breast slices. Heavy cream is added for richness, creating a velvety finish. The result is a satisfying soup with a hint of spice, perfect for cozy evenings. Top with chopped green onions for an extra touch of freshness.
Creamy Cajun Chicken Soup delivers bold Cajun flavors wrapped in a comforting, creamy broth. Starting with a sauté of the holy trinity—onion, celery, and bell pepper—this soup builds layers of flavor with garlic and Cajun seasoning. Chicken breasts are seasoned, seared, and chopped before being added to the mix, bringing tender bites of protein. Heavy cream transforms the broth into a rich, smooth base that pairs perfectly with the Cajun spices. Topped with green onions, this soup makes a cozy meal with just the right amount of heat.
INGREDIENTS
- Butter: 2 tablespoons
- Holy trinity (onion, celery, bell pepper): 1 ½ cups total (½ cup each, chopped)
- Garlic: 4 cloves, minced
- Cajun seasoning: 2 tablespoons, divided
- Chicken stock: 2 cups
- Diced tomatoes (with juices): 1 (14.5-ounce) can
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts: 1 pound, sliced thin
- Neutral oil (e.g., avocado or canola): 1 tablespoon
- Heavy cream or half-and-half: 1 cup, at room temperature
- Chopped green onions: Optional, for garnish
INSTRUCTIONS
- Step 1:
- Heat a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat and add butter. Once melted, add the holy trinity (onion, celery, bell pepper) and sauté until tender, about 5 minutes.
- Step 2:
- Stir in minced garlic and cook for 30-60 seconds until fragrant. Mix in 1 tablespoon of Cajun seasoning.
- Step 3:
- Add chicken stock and diced tomatoes (with juices) to the Dutch oven. Stir and bring to a low boil, then reduce heat to a simmer.
- Step 4:
- Season the chicken with the remaining Cajun seasoning. Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat and sear the chicken for 3-5 minutes per side until firm. Let cool, then chop into bite-sized pieces.
- Step 5:
- Lower the heat on the Dutch oven and add heavy cream. Stir until combined, then add the chopped chicken. Simmer for 3-5 minutes.
- Step 6:
- Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. Garnish with chopped green onions, if preferred, before serving.
Serving and Storage Tips
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of chicken stock if needed to maintain consistency.
Helpful Notes
- Adjust the level of spice by using more or less Cajun seasoning or adding cayenne pepper.
- Half-and-half can be used instead of heavy cream for a lighter consistency.
Tips from Well-Known Chefs
- Chef Ellie recommends browning the chicken for deeper flavor before adding to the soup.
- Use homemade chicken stock for the best flavor and depth.
Rich, Comforting Cajun Flavor
This soup combines the creaminess you crave with a burst of Cajun spice for an unforgettable meal.
Perfect for Cozy Nights
Warm up with this rich, flavorful soup that is ideal for family dinners or a comforting meal after a long day.
FAQs
Can I make this soup spicier?
Yes, add extra Cajun seasoning or cayenne pepper to taste.
Can I substitute half-and-half for heavy cream?
Yes, but it will result in a lighter, less creamy consistency.
How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Can I use rotisserie chicken?
Yes, shred rotisserie chicken and add it directly to the soup for convenience.
Summary
Creamy Cajun Chicken Soup is a flavorful combination of Cajun-seasoned chicken, a creamy broth, and a rich blend of vegetables. This comforting soup starts with the holy trinity of Cajun cuisine—onion, celery, and bell pepper—cooked in butter until tender. It is spiced with garlic and Cajun seasoning before simmering with chicken stock and diced tomatoes. Tender chicken slices are seared separately, then chopped and added to the soup for added depth. Heavy cream brings the final touch, creating a smooth and comforting base. Perfect for chilly nights or whenever you're craving a warming meal with bold flavors.