Description
A comforting and flavorful Creamy Cajun Chicken Soup recipe inspired by Maebells. Easy to make with tender chicken, vegetables, and a rich, creamy broth seasoned with Cajun spices. Perfect for weeknight dinners or cozy lunches. Serve with rice or crusty bread.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 large yellow onion, chopped
- 2 bell peppers (any color), chopped
- 3 celery ribs, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (or more, to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon white pepper (optional)
- Salt to taste
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 cup half-and-half or heavy cream
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
- Cooked rice or crusty bread, for serving
Instructions
- 1. Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned; remove and set aside.
- 2. Add onion, bell peppers, and celery to the pot; cook until softened, about 8-10 minutes.
- 3. Stir in garlic, smoked paprika, oregano, thyme, cayenne pepper, black pepper, and white pepper. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- 4. Sprinkle flour over vegetables and stir to coat; cook for 1-2 minutes.
- 5. Gradually whisk in chicken broth, scraping up browned bits. Bring to a simmer, stirring.
- 6. Add diced tomatoes (undrained) and cooked chicken.
- 7. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-30 minutes (or longer for deeper flavor).
- 8. Stir in half-and-half or heavy cream and shredded cheese (if using) until melted.
- 9. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and cayenne.
- 10. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.
Notes
Allow soup to cool completely before storing in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, freeze in portion-sized containers for up to 2-3 months. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, thinning with broth or dairy if needed. Avoid vigorous boiling.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: Approximately 450-550 (will vary based on cream choice and additions)
- Sugar: Approximately 5-8g
- Sodium: Will vary based on broth and added salt
- Fat: Approximately 20-30g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 25-35g
- Fiber: Approximately 3-5g
- Protein: Approximately 30-35g