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–+ servings
Hearty Creamy Cajun Chicken Soup

Hearty Creamy Cajun Chicken Soup for Ultimate Comfort Food

Hearty Creamy Cajun Chicken Soup is a comforting dish that combines rich flavors and a creamy texture, perfect for chilly days.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 6 cups
Course: Soups
Cuisine: Cajun
Calories: 350
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Soup Base
  • 1.5 lbs Boneless, skinless chicken thighs Main protein for heartiness; substitute with chicken breasts or shrimp for a different protein.
  • 1 tbsp Olive oil For searing chicken; can substitute with vegetable oil.
  • 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning Provides authentic Cajun flavor; adjust quantity for spiciness preference.
  • Salt and black pepper Enhances overall flavor; adjust as needed.
  • 4 tbsp Unsalted butter Forms the roux base; can replace with margarine for a non-dairy option.
  • 4 tbsp All-purpose flour Thickens the soup; use gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version.
For the Aromatics
  • 1 large Yellow onion Base flavor ingredient; essential for the holy trinity of Cajun cooking.
  • 2 stalks Celery Adds flavor and texture; increase quantity for more crunch.
  • 1 large Green bell pepper Complements the base flavors; can substitute with red or yellow bell peppers for sweetness.
  • 4-5 cloves Garlic Adds aromatic depth; fresh is best, but jarred garlic can work in a pinch.
For the Broth and Spices
  • 6 cups Low-sodium chicken broth Forms the soup base; vegetable broth can be used for a vegetarian version.
  • 1 tsp Smoked paprika Introduces a smoky flavor; swap for regular paprika for less smoke.
  • 1/2 tsp Dried thyme Adds herby notes; can substitute with Italian seasoning.
  • 1/4 tsp Cayenne pepper For heat; adjust based on preference.
  • 1 Bay leaf Adds depth to the flavor profile; ensure to remove before serving.
For the Creaminess and Garnish
  • 1 cup Heavy cream Provides rich creaminess; for a lighter version, use half-and-half or coconut milk.
  • 2 tbsp Fresh parsley Chopped, for freshness and visual appeal.
  • 2 tbsp Green onions Sliced, for freshness and visual appeal.

Equipment

  • Dutch oven

Method
 

Step‑By‑Step Instructions
  1. Begin by cutting the boneless, skinless chicken thighs into 1-inch pieces. Season the chicken generously with Cajun seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Allow the seasoned chicken to rest for about 10 minutes while you prepare the other ingredients.
  2. Next, finely dice the yellow onion, celery, and green bell pepper, placing them aside in a bowl. The Camille's 'holy trinity' of Cajun cooking brings depth to your Hearty Creamy Cajun Chicken Soup, so take your time to chop them evenly for a balanced texture.
  3. Mince 4-5 cloves of garlic and have them ready in a small bowl. Measure out the smoked paprika, dried thyme, and cayenne pepper as well, setting everything in easy reach.
  4. Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken pieces in a single layer and sear for about 5-7 minutes, or until the chicken is golden brown.
  5. In the same pot, reduce the heat to medium and add 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter. Once melted, whisk in 4 tablespoons of all-purpose flour to form a roux, cooking it for about 3-4 minutes, until it turns a lovely golden brown.
  6. Add the chopped onion, celery, and bell pepper to the roux, sautéing for 5-7 minutes, or until the vegetables are softened and fragrant.
  7. Stir in the minced garlic, smoked paprika, dried thyme, and cayenne pepper, cooking for about 1-2 minutes.
  8. Gradually whisk in 6 cups of low-sodium chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot to incorporate all that delicious, flavorful goodness.
  9. Return the seared chicken to the pot and add 1 bay leaf. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low, allowing it to simmer for 20-25 minutes.
  10. After simmering, carefully remove the bay leaf and taste the soup. Season with additional salt and black pepper to your preference.
  11. Stir in 1 cup of heavy cream, mixing well to incorporate it into the soup.
  12. Ladle the hearty soup into bowls, garnishing each with chopped fresh parsley and sliced green onions for a burst of color and freshness.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 20gProtein: 28gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 6gCholesterol: 90mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 700mgFiber: 2gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 1500IUVitamin C: 30mgCalcium: 50mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat slowly on the stove to maintain maximum flavor and texture in your Hearty Creamy Cajun Chicken Soup.

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