If you’re craving a comforting, bold-flavored dinner that stays low in carbs, this Easy Keto Cajun Chicken and Shrimp Soup Recipe is exactly what you need. It’s creamy, hearty, and packed with classic Cajun spices, tender chicken, and juicy shrimp, all while fitting perfectly into a keto lifestyle. This soup feels indulgent but is simple enough for a weeknight meal and cozy enough for weekends.
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Why You’ll Love This Easy Keto Cajun Chicken and Shrimp Soup Recipe
This soup delivers big flavor with minimal effort. It’s naturally low-carb, gluten-free, and keto-friendly, yet filling enough to satisfy the whole family. The combination of chicken and shrimp gives you plenty of protein, while the creamy broth balances the Cajun spice without being overwhelming. It’s a one-pot recipe, easy to customize, and reheats beautifully for leftovers.
Ingredients for Easy Keto Cajun Chicken and Shrimp Soup Recipe
Soup Base
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 ribs celery, diced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
Protein
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-size pieces
- 12 ounces raw shrimp, peeled and deveined
Liquids & Creaminess
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
Seasonings
- 1½ tablespoons Cajun seasoning
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, adjust to taste)
- ½ teaspoon salt, or to taste
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Garnish (Optional)
- Chopped fresh parsley or green onions
Ingredient Notes
For a milder soup, reduce the Cajun seasoning or skip the cayenne. If you prefer a lighter dairy option, you can use half-and-half, though it will slightly increase carbs. For dairy-free keto, use full-fat coconut cream and dairy-free cream cheese; the flavor will be slightly sweeter but still delicious. Chicken thighs can be substituted for chicken breast for a richer taste.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1 – Sauté the Vegetables
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and celery and cook for 4 to 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Step 2 – Cook the Chicken
Add the chicken pieces to the pot and sprinkle with Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir well and cook for about 5 to 6 minutes, until the chicken is mostly cooked and lightly browned on the outside.
Step 3 – Simmer the Soup
Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Reduce the heat to medium-low and let it cook for 10 minutes so the flavors can develop and the chicken finishes cooking.
Step 4 – Make It Creamy
Lower the heat and stir in the softened cream cheese until fully melted and smooth. Slowly pour in the heavy cream while stirring continuously to create a rich, creamy broth.
Step 5 – Add the Shrimp
Add the shrimp to the pot and cook for 3 to 4 minutes, or until they turn pink and opaque. Be careful not to overcook them, as shrimp cook very quickly.
Step 6 – Taste and Serve
Taste the soup and adjust seasoning if needed. Garnish with chopped parsley or green onions and serve hot.
Pro Tips for Success
Use good-quality Cajun seasoning for the best flavor and check labels to ensure it’s low in carbs. Cut the chicken into evenly sized pieces so it cooks at the same rate. Keep the soup at a gentle simmer after adding cream to prevent curdling. Add shrimp at the very end to keep them tender and juicy. If the soup thickens too much, add a splash of chicken broth to loosen it.
Flavor Variations
Add sliced andouille-style chicken sausage for extra Cajun flair. Stir in a handful of chopped spinach at the end for added nutrients. Use shrimp only and skip the chicken for a seafood-focused version. Add a squeeze of lemon juice before serving to brighten the flavors. Increase smoked paprika for a deeper smoky taste without extra heat.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this soup on its own for a complete keto meal or pair it with a simple side salad with a low-carb dressing. It also goes well with keto biscuits or almond flour bread for dipping. For extra richness, top with a small sprinkle of shredded cheddar or Parmesan cheese.
Storage and Freezing Instructions
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring often. This soup can be frozen, but the texture may change slightly due to the cream. If freezing, cool completely and freeze for up to 2 months, then thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating slowly.
Easy Keto Cajun Chicken and Shrimp Soup Recipe
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Description
A creamy, hearty, and low-carb soup packed with bold Cajun spices, tender chicken, and juicy shrimp. Perfect for a comforting keto dinner.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 ribs celery, diced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-size pieces
- 12 ounces raw shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1½ tablespoons Cajun seasoning
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- Chopped fresh parsley or green onions (optional)
Instructions
- In a large pot, heat butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add onion and celery; cook 4-5 minutes until softened. Add garlic and cook 30 seconds.
- Add chicken, Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Cook 5-6 minutes until chicken is mostly cooked.
- Pour in chicken broth, bring to a gentle simmer, and cook 10 minutes.
- Lower heat and stir in cream cheese until smooth. Slowly add heavy cream while stirring.
- Add shrimp and cook 3-4 minutes until pink and opaque.
- Taste and adjust seasoning. Garnish with parsley or green onions and serve hot.
Notes
For milder flavor, reduce Cajun seasoning or skip cayenne. For dairy-free keto, use full-fat coconut cream and dairy-free cream cheese. Chicken thighs can replace chicken breast for a richer taste.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Keto, Cajun
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~420 |
| Protein | ~32 g |
| Carbohydrates | ~6 g |
| Fat | ~30 g |
| Fiber | ~1 g |
| Sodium | ~820 mg |
FAQ About Easy Keto Cajun Chicken and Shrimp Soup Recipe
Is this soup really keto-friendly?
Yes, this recipe is low in carbs and high in healthy fats and protein, making it suitable for a ketogenic diet. Always check your Cajun seasoning for hidden sugars or starches.
Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Absolutely. The flavors develop even more after sitting for a few hours. Just reheat gently to keep the cream smooth and the shrimp tender.
What if I don’t like spicy food?
You can easily reduce or omit the cayenne and use a mild Cajun seasoning. The soup will still be flavorful without the heat.
Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, just thaw them completely and pat them dry before adding to the soup. This helps prevent excess water from thinning the broth.
How do I thicken the soup without adding carbs?
Cream cheese naturally thickens the soup. You can also simmer it a bit longer uncovered to reduce the liquid if needed.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Keto Cajun Chicken and Shrimp Soup Recipe proves that comfort food can be both flavorful and low-carb. With simple ingredients, bold Cajun spices, and a creamy, satisfying broth, it’s a recipe you’ll want to make again and again, whether you’re following keto or just love a great bowl of soup.