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Spicy Cajun Chicken and Sausage Gumbo

Spicy Cajun Chicken and Sausage Gumbo
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Spicy Cajun Chicken and Sausage Gumbo is a hearty, soul-warming Louisiana classic featuring tender chicken thighs, smoky andouille sausage, and a rich, spicy roux-based broth with aromatic vegetables and bold Cajun spices. This comforting one-pot meal delivers deep, layered flavors that can be easily customized for heat level and ingredients, perfect for any season or occasion.

Ingredients

Scale

Meats

  • 1 lb skinless, boneless chicken thighs, cut into chunks
  • 12 oz andouille sausage, sliced

Vegetables

  • 1 large onion, diced
  • 1 green bell pepper, diced
  • 2 celery stalks, diced
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Roux

  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup vegetable oil (or oil of choice)

Liquids and Broth

  • 6 cups chicken stock

Seasonings and Spices

  • 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning (blend of paprika, cayenne, thyme, oregano, garlic powder)
  • 2 bay leaves
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste

Accompaniments

  • Cooked white rice, for serving

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Roux: Start by combining equal parts flour and oil in a heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat. Stir constantly until the mixture turns a rich caramel brown color, the key to the gumbo’s signature depth and thickness.
  2. Sauté the Trinity and Garlic: Add diced onions, green bell peppers, and celery to the roux and cook until softened, then stir in minced garlic. This step releases the aromatic base that infuses the entire gumbo with flavor.
  3. Brown the Sausage and Chicken: In a separate pan, sear the sliced andouille sausage and chicken pieces until golden brown. Browning adds smoky flavor and helps maintain tender meat during simmering.
  4. Combine and Simmer: Return the browned meats to the pot, pour in the chicken stock, then season with Cajun spices, bay leaves, salt, and pepper. Let the gumbo simmer uncovered for at least 45 minutes, stirring occasionally to develop the flavors and thicken the broth.
  5. Final Touches: Before serving, remove bay leaves, adjust seasoning if needed, and stir in chopped green onions and fresh parsley for brightness.

Notes

  • Perfect Your Roux: Be patient and stir continuously to avoid burning while achieving a deep brown color.
  • Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh veggies and quality sausage elevate flavor significantly.
  • Simmer Low and Slow: The longer gumbo simmers, the more the flavors meld, so don’t rush this step.
  • Adjust Spice Gradually: Add spices in increments to find your ideal heat level without overwhelming the dish.
  • Don’t Skip the Trinity: This classic vegetable mix is essential for authentic taste and aroma.

Nutrition

Keywords: Spicy Cajun chicken gumbo, andouille sausage gumbo, Louisiana gumbo, spicy gumbo recipe, Cajun recipes

Find it online: https://recipesemilly.com/spicy-cajun-chicken-and-sausage-gumbo/