Description
Cajun Chicken and Sausage Gumbo is a rich and flavorful stew that embodies the heart of Louisiana cuisine. This dish combines tender chicken, smoky sausage, and the “holy trinity” of Cajun vegetables—onions, bell peppers, and celery—simmered in a deeply flavorful roux-based broth. Served over white rice and garnished with fresh herbs, this gumbo is a comforting and hearty meal perfect for any time of the year.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Gumbo:
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lb smoked sausage, sliced
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 2 cups okra, sliced
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme
- 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Cooked white rice (for serving)
- Chopped green onions (for garnish)
- Fresh parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
- Make the Roux: In a large heavy-bottomed pot, heat vegetable oil over medium heat. Slowly whisk in flour, stirring constantly until the mixture turns a deep brown color, about 20-30 minutes.
- Add the Vegetables: Add chopped onions, bell pepper, celery, and garlic to the roux. Cook until vegetables are softened, about 5 minutes.
- Cook the Sausage and Chicken: Add sliced sausage and cook for 5 minutes. Stir in chicken pieces and cook until browned on all sides.
- Simmer the Gumbo: Pour in chicken broth and diced tomatoes. Stir to combine. Add sliced okra, bay leaves, Cajun seasoning, thyme, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer uncovered for 45 minutes.
- Serve the Gumbo: Remove bay leaves. Serve gumbo over white rice, garnished with green onions and parsley.
Notes
- Roux requires constant attention and stirring to avoid burning; patience is key.
- Okra helps thicken the gumbo, but you can omit it or use file powder if you prefer.
- The gumbo can be made spicier by adding more cayenne pepper or using spicy sausage.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: Cajun
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 420 kcal
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 980mg
- Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
Keywords: Cajun Chicken and Sausage Gumbo