Description
A rich and flavorful Creamy Cajun Chicken Soup loaded with tender chicken, fire roasted tomatoes, and a medley of veggies, all simmered in a creamy, cheesy broth spiced with Cajun seasonings and hot sauce for a comforting, hearty meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Vegetables and Aromatics
- 1 tablespoon butter or olive oil
- 1 tablespoon garlic
- 1 cup onion (chopped)
- 1 cup carrots (chopped)
- 1 1/2 cup celery (chopped)
- 1 1/2 cup bell pepper (chopped, any color or a mix)
Chicken and Seasonings
- 1 1/2 pounds chicken breast
- 2 tablespoons Old Bay or Cajun seasoning
- 2 teaspoons hot sauce
- 1 14 ounce can fire roasted tomatoes, drained
Liquids and Dairy
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 8 ounces cream cheese (softened)
Instructions
- Prepare the base: Heat a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the butter or olive oil, then sauté the garlic, onion, celery, bell pepper, and carrots for 3-4 minutes or until the vegetables become tender and fragrant.
- Add chicken and seasonings: Place the chicken breasts into the pot, evenly sprinkle with the Cajun seasoning, then add the hot sauce, drained fire roasted tomatoes, and chicken broth. Stir gently to combine.
- Simmer the soup: Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, cover with a lid, reduce heat to medium-low, and let cook for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. Ensure the chicken is fully cooked and tender.
- Shred the chicken: Remove the chicken from the pot and shred it with two forks on a cutting board. Set aside.
- Create the creamy base: While the chicken is being shredded, add the heavy cream and softened cream cheese to the pot. Whisk thoroughly until the cream cheese dissolves and the soup is creamy and smooth.
- Combine and serve: Return the shredded chicken to the pot, stir to incorporate, and serve the soup immediately. Optionally, top with green onions, sharp cheddar cheese, and extra hot sauce for added flavor and garnish.
Notes
- This soup is a low-carb, keto-friendly option with only 8 net carbs per serving.
- You can substitute cream cheese with mascarpone or a dairy-free cream cheese alternative to adjust dietary needs.
- Adjust the heat level by modifying the amount of hot sauce according to your spice preference.
- For extra depth of flavor, consider adding smoked paprika or a splash of Worcestershire sauce.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stovetop.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1.25 cups
- Calories: 238 kcal
- Sugar: 6.5 g
- Sodium: 401 mg
- Fat: 8.3 g
- Saturated Fat: 4.5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3.8 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 10.8 g
- Fiber: 2.8 g
- Protein: 21.7 g
- Cholesterol: 74.8 mg
