Description
Cozy up with this flavorful Cajun Chicken Soup recipe that combines bold Cajun spices and tender chicken in a hearty, comforting bowl. Perfect for chilly evenings or anytime you want to spice up your dinner, this soup features vibrant flavors, wholesome veggies, and is easy to prepare with pantry staples and fresh ingredients.
Ingredients
Protein
- 1 lb boneless chicken thighs, trimmed and cut into pieces
- Optional: 1 cup cooked rice or 6 oz sliced andouille sausage
Vegetables
- 1 each red, yellow, and green bell peppers, diced (tri-color mix)
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 stalks celery, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
Liquids & Canned Goods
- 4 cups chicken broth (gluten-free if needed)
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
Spices & Garnishes
- 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning (blend of paprika, cayenne pepper, thyme, oregano)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley or green onions, chopped for garnish
Others
- 1–2 tbsp cooking oil (vegetable or olive oil)
Instructions
- Step 1: Sauté the Veggies
Heat a splash of oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced onions, celery, and bell peppers. Sauté until softened and fragrant, building the flavor base of the soup.
- Step 2: Brown the Chicken
Season chicken thighs lightly with salt and pepper. Add them to the pot and cook until browned on the outside, creating a deeper flavor and texture.
- Step 3: Add Garlic and Spices
Stir in the minced garlic and Cajun seasoning blend. Cook briefly to let spices toast and release their aroma, essential for the signature Cajun taste.
- Step 4: Stir in Liquids and Simmer
Pour in chicken broth and diced tomatoes. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 25 to 30 minutes, allowing flavors to meld.
- Step 5: Add Rice or Sausage (Optional)
If using, stir in cooked rice or sliced andouille sausage. Cook just until heated through to incorporate their flavors and texture.
- Step 6: Finish with Fresh Herbs
Before serving, sprinkle chopped parsley or green onions on top for a fresh, vibrant finish.
Notes
- Use fresh Cajun seasoning or make your own blend for maximum flavor.
- Avoid overcooking chicken to keep it tender and juicy.
- Sauté spices with vegetables to deepen the soup’s flavor.
- Adjust cayenne and paprika amounts to control the spice level.
- Let the soup rest for a few minutes after cooking to allow flavors to meld.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Soups
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Cajun
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
Keywords: Cajun chicken soup, spicy chicken soup, hearty soup, gluten-free soup, comfort food, easy soup recipe
