Chicken Sausage Gumbo: 12 Spicy Secrets for Comfort Food

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Chicken Sausage Gumbo is a culinary gem that brings together tender chicken and smoky Andouille sausage in a richly spiced broth. This dish features traditional ingredients like bell peppers, onions, and celery, enhanced by the unique flavors of fire-roasted tomatoes and jalapeños. The result is a comforting bowl of goodness that warms you from the inside out. It’s the perfect recipe for gatherings or a cozy night at home!

Why You’ll Love This Chicken Sausage Gumbo

This Chicken Sausage Gumbo is not just a meal; it’s an experience. Here are several reasons to love it:

Rich flavors from the homemade roux and spices.
Comfort food that nourishes the soul.
Great for meal prep and leftovers taste even better.
Perfect balance of protein from chicken and sausage.
Can easily accommodate various diets, including gluten-free options.
Versatile; great as a one-pot meal or served over rice.
Ideal for entertaining guests with its bold Cajun flair.
Easy to customize with your favorite vegetables.

Ingredients for Chicken Sausage Gumbo

Gather these items:

12 ounces Andouille pork sausage
1 1/2 pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs
1/2 cup butter
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon smoked paprika (or to taste)
2 cups yellow onion (diced small)
1 medium green bell pepper (seeded and diced small)
2 celery ribs (diced small)
1 small jalapeño (seeded and diced)
4 cloves garlic (finely minced)
10 ounces canned diced fire-roasted tomatoes with juice
6 cups chicken broth
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
2 bay leaves
1 teaspoon dried thyme (or to taste)
1 teaspoon dried oregano (or to taste)
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (or to taste)
1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper (or to taste)
1 cup sliced okra (fresh or frozen)
2 tablespoons fresh parsley (chopped)

How to Make Chicken Sausage Gumbo Step-by-Step

Step 1: To a large Dutch oven, add the sausage and heat over medium-high to brown it. Remove and set aside.
Step 2: Add the chicken to the pot and brown for about 3-4 minutes. Remove and set aside.
Step 3: Reduce heat to low, add butter, and melt, scraping up any brown bits.
Step 4: Sprinkle flour over the butter and whisk constantly until it turns a rich, dark brown color.
Step 5: Add the smoked paprika and mix in.
Step 6: Add onion, bell pepper, celery, jalapeño, and stir for 4-5 minutes.
Step 7: Add garlic and stir for 1 minute.
Step 8: Add canned tomatoes with juice and stir to combine.
Step 9: While whisking, add chicken broth, Worcestershire, bay leaves, thyme, oregano, salt, pepper, and cayenne.
Step 10: Reincorporate the sausage and chicken into the pot.
Step 11: Bring to a gentle simmer, then reduce heat to low and simmer uncovered for 50-60 minutes.
Step 12: Add okra in the last 15 minutes.
Step 13: Remove bay leaves, add parsley, and adjust seasoning as needed.
Step 14: Serve with white rice or cornbread.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Chicken Sausage Gumbo

Keep these in mind:

Use Andouille sausage for traditional flavor.
Keep the heat low when making the roux to avoid burning.
Okra is important for thickening the gumbo.
Consider using clarified butter for a more stable roux.

Best Ways to Serve Chicken Sausage Gumbo

This gumbo is best served over cooked white rice, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Pair it with cornbread or honey cornbread muffins for a delightful meal. This dish can also be enjoyed alone as a hearty stew or served with a fresh salad for a lighter option.

How to Store and Reheat Chicken Sausage Gumbo

Store leftover gumbo in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth if it thickens too much. This makes excellent meal prep for busy weeknights!

Frequently Asked Questions About Chicken Sausage Gumbo

What’s the secret to perfect Chicken Sausage Gumbo?

The secret lies in the roux. Cooking it slowly until it reaches a dark chocolate color enhances the flavor of the gumbo significantly. Using quality ingredients, especially Andouille sausage, adds depth to the dish. This is essential for creating a truly authentic flavor.

Can I make Chicken Sausage Gumbo ahead of time?

Absolutely! In fact, making Chicken Sausage Gumbo ahead of time allows the flavors to develop further. Store it in the refrigerator and reheat it before serving. This dish often tastes even better the next day!

How do I avoid common mistakes with Chicken Sausage Gumbo?

Common mistakes include burning the roux and not allowing enough simmering time. Be patient with the roux and stir constantly to prevent burning. Additionally, let the gumbo simmer for at least an hour for the best flavor integration.

Variations of Chicken Sausage Gumbo You Can Try

There are many delightful variations of Chicken Sausage Gumbo you can explore. Consider adding shrimp for a seafood twist, or substitute the chicken for turkey for a healthier option. For a vegetarian version, replace the meat with lots of vegetables and beans. You can also try a spicy chicken sausage gumbo by adding extra cayenne or jalapeños for heat!

For more delicious recipes, check out our Grilled Cheese Patty Melts or Baked Pears with Feta and Honey. If you’re looking for dessert ideas, try our Sugar Plum Shortbread Cookies!

For more information on the importance of roux in gumbo, you can visit Serious Eats.