A Flavorful Beginning
My Favorite is Spicy Cajun Chicken & Rice Soup and As the chilly evening breeze crept through my kitchen window, I decided it was time to make something special. My mind wandered to my favorite comfort food, and instantly, a pot of Spicy Cajun Chicken & Rice Soup came to mind. I could almost smell the aromatic blend of spices and tender chicken cooking slowly. I set out my ingredients and imagined the warmth this soup would bring to my family. Cooking this soup always feels like a little adventure, where each step reveals the heartwarming flavors of Cajun cuisine.
A Hearty Transformation
I began by placing the whole chicken in my large stockpot, surrounded by bay leaves and a generous sprinkle of seasoning. As the broth simmered away, the aroma of garlic, onions, and celery filled the kitchen, mingling with the rich scent of the Cajun spices. The process of shredding the chicken once it was tender and adding it back into the pot made the kitchen smell even more inviting. Each ingredient, from the vibrant tomatoes to the fresh orange juice, played its part in creating a deliciously comforting meal.
The Final Touch
With the soup nearing completion, I added in the cooked rice and pinto beans. Watching the rice and beans blend with the flavorful broth made me smile. I stirred in a handful of fresh cilantro for a touch of brightness. The soup simmered for a few more minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully. I could already envision the satisfied faces of my family as they tasted the spicy, savory goodness of this hearty meal.
Serving with Love
Finally, as I ladled the steaming soup into bowls, I couldn’t wait to serve it alongside warm cornbread. The vibrant colors of the soup and the enticing aroma made it clear that this was going to be a hit. Sitting down to enjoy the soup, I felt a deep sense of satisfaction. Each spoonful was a reminder of the joy of cooking and sharing a meal that truly warms the soul. The Spicy Cajun Chicken & Rice Soup had once again turned a simple evening into a delightful and comforting experience.
Table of Contents
Chef’s Notes- Spicy Cajun Chicken & Rice Soup
- For an extra layer of flavor, roast the chicken in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 30-40 minutes before making the broth. This adds a rich, caramelized depth to the soup.
- After sautéing the vegetables, consider deglazing the pot with a splash of white wine or a bit of broth. This helps to lift any flavorful bits stuck to the bottom of the pot and incorporates them into the soup.
- Adjust the Cajun seasoning according to your taste preferences. If you prefer a milder soup, start with half the recommended amount and add more if needed.
- Feel free to enhance the soup with additional vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or corn. Add them when you combine the other ingredients and adjust cooking times as needed.
- This soup keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days and can be frozen for up to 3 months. If freezing, consider storing the rice separately to prevent it from becoming mushy upon reheating.
- To make the soup dairy-free, substitute the butter with olive oil or coconut oil. You can also use a dairy-free cornbread recipe on the side.
- If you prefer a thicker consistency, you can blend a portion of the soup and then stir it back in. Alternatively, you can add a slurry of cornstarch and water to thicken.
Spicy Cajun Chicken & Rice Soup
4
servings20
minutes2
hours245
kcal10
minutes2
hours30
minutesDive into a bowl of this Spicy Cajun Chicken & Rice Soup, a comforting and flavorful dish perfect for any occasion. This hearty soup, brimming with tender chicken, aromatic spices, and wholesome rice, is a crowd-pleaser that will warm your soul. Serve it with hot cornbread for an unbeatable combination. Inspired by the rich flavors of Cajun cuisine, this recipe is a must-try for anyone looking to spice up their meal routine.
Ingredients
- Chicken and Broth
1 whole chicken (about 6 pounds)
2 bay leaves
1 tsp kosher salt
1 tsp poultry seasoning blend
1 tsp ground black pepper
- Vegetables and Aromatics
1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
2 stalks celery, diced
1 tbsp unsalted butter
12 cloves garlic, minced
- Liquids and Seasonings
1 can (10 ounces) diced tomatoes with green chilies, drained
3/4 cup fresh orange juice
2 tbsp chopped fresh cilantro
2 tsp Cajun spice mix
1 tsp dried oregano leaves
1/2 tsp dried thyme leaves
1/2 tsp ground cumin
1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- Add-ins
2 cups cooked white rice
1 can (15 ounces) pinto beans, rinsed and drained
Directions
- Place the whole chicken in a large stockpot and cover with water. Add bay leaves, salt, poultry seasoning, and black pepper. Bring to a boil over high heat.
- Once the chicken is cool enough to handle, remove the meat from the bones and shred into bite-sized pieces. Set aside 3 cups of shredded chicken for the soup.
- Stir in the diced tomatoes with green chilies, orange juice, chopped cilantro, Cajun seasoning, oregano, thyme, cumin, paprika, and reserved broth.
- Stir in the cooked rice and rinsed pinto beans. Add the shredded chicken back into the pot.
- Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with additional fresh cilantro if desired. Serve hot with cornbread on the side.
Equipment
- chef’s knife
- cutting board
- stockpot
- colander
- Mixing bowls
- measuring cups and spoons
Nutrition Facts
- Calories: 245kcal
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
- Sodium: 709mg
- Potassium: 400mg
- Carbohydrates: 27g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugar: 4g
- Protein: 20g
- Vitamin A: 10IU
- Vitamin C: 20mg
- Calcium: 6mg
- Iron: 10mg
FAQ-Spicy Cajun Chicken & Rice Soup
Can I use a store-bought rotisserie chicken?
Yes, using a store-bought rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver. Just shred the meat and use it in place of the whole chicken in the recipe. You can also use the store-bought rotisserie chicken to make the broth for added flavor.
What if I don’t have Cajun seasoning?
If you don’t have Cajun seasoning, you can make a substitute with a blend of paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, oregano, and a pinch of cayenne pepper. Adjust the proportions to taste.
Can I use instant rice instead of cooked rice?
Instant rice can be used, but it will cook much faster. Add it to the soup in the last 10 minutes of cooking to avoid overcooking.
How can I make this soup spicier?
To increase the spice level, you can add extra cayenne pepper or hot sauce. Be cautious and add a little at a time, tasting as you go.
Can I use other types of beans in this recipe?
Absolutely! If you prefer, you can substitute pinto beans with black beans, kidney beans, or chickpeas. Adjust the seasoning as needed to complement the type of beans used.
