Delicious Chicken and Sausage Gumbo Recipe

Name: Delicious Chicken and Sausage Gumbo
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: Southern
Ingredients: 1 lb boneless chicken thighs, diced; 1 lb smoked turkey sausage, sliced; 1 large onion, diced; 1 cup bell peppers (mixed colors), diced; 1 cup celery, chopped; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning; 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth; 1 can (14.5 oz) fire-roasted diced tomatoes; 1 cup okra (optional), sliced; 3 green onions, chopped (for garnish); 2 cups cooked white rice (for serving)

Published: September 25, 2025

by Clara Harper

Why You'll Love This Recipe

Chicken and sausage gumbo is simple to make yet delivers complex flavors that wow your guests.
Its rich aroma fills your home with comfort and warmth.
The vibrant mix of ingredients makes it visually stunning on any dinner table.
Versatile enough for weeknight meals or special occasions, everyone will be asking for seconds!

A memorable night with friends featured my first attempt at making this dish—everyone raved about it!

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Boneless Chicken Thighs: I prefer thighs for their tenderness; they stay juicy during cooking.
Smoked Sausage: Use your favorite type; it adds a delightful smoky flavor to the gumbo.
Onion: Diced onion provides sweetness; sauté until translucent for the best base flavor.
Bell Peppers: Choose colorful peppers for visual appeal and a slight crunch in every bite.
Celery: This aromatic adds depth; chop finely so it blends seamlessly into the mix.
Garlic: Fresh cloves bring pungent flavor; minced garlic enhances the overall aroma significantly.
Cajun Seasoning: Customize your blend or use store-bought; this is essential for authentic flavor.
Chicken Broth: Opt for low-sodium broth to control saltiness while keeping everything moist.
Diced Tomatoes: Canned tomatoes add acidity; choose fire-roasted ones for extra depth of flavor.
Okra (optional): Adds texture and thickens the broth; slice fresh okra if available.
Green Onions: Chopped green onions offer freshness as a garnish—don’t skip them!
White Rice: Serve alongside the gumbo to soak up all those savory juices—yum!

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make It Together

Sauté the Base Ingredients: In a large pot over medium heat, add oil and sauté diced onion, bell peppers, celery, and garlic until fragrant and soft. Expect about 5-7 minutes here.

Add Chicken and Sausage: Stir in diced boneless chicken thighs and sliced smoked sausage. Cook until browned on all sides—about 8-10 minutes will do nicely.

Add Seasonings and Liquids : Sprinkle Cajun seasoning evenly over meat then pour in chicken broth along with diced tomatoes. Give everything a good stir to combine all those delicious flavors.

Add Okra (if using): Toss in sliced fresh okra now for added texture if you choose to include it; let it mingle with your other ingredients.

Simmer Until Perfectly Thickened : Reduce heat to low; cover partially and allow the mixture to simmer for 30-40 minutes until everything is tender and flavors meld beautifully together.

Serve with Love : Fluff cooked white rice onto each serving bowl before ladling generous portions of your hearty gumbo over top. Garnish with chopped green onions!

Now that you’ve conquered this classic dish of chicken and sausage gumbo, prepare yourself! You’ll have friends knocking on your door begging for leftovers—and who can blame them? Enjoy!

You Must Know

Cooking chicken and sausage gumbo is all about layering flavors.
Don’t rush; let each ingredient shine.
The aroma of the spices will have everyone flocking to your kitchen, eager to taste your creation.
A hearty bowl can warm even the coldest nights!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by sautéing the sausage until browned, then add chicken and vegetables. While those cook, stir the roux until it reaches a rich color. This sequence builds depth and flavor in your gumbo.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap in shrimp or add okra for extra texture. A dash of hot sauce or a sprinkle of cayenne can kick up the heat if you’re feeling adventurous!

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover gumbo in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When reheating, do so slowly on low heat to preserve flavors and prevent overcooking the chicken.

Chef's Helpful Tips

To achieve that perfect roux, keep stirring!
It’s a labor of love that results in complex flavors.
Use fresh herbs for a fragrant finish, and don’t skip on seasoning—taste as you go!
Always serve with rice for that authentic touch.

Cooking chicken and sausage gumbo reminds me of family gatherings where laughter filled the air and everyone wanted seconds. The joy of sharing a delicious meal made all those hours worth it.

FAQ

What can I substitute for sausage in chicken and sausage gumbo?

Try using turkey sausage or smoked turkey for a lighter option without sacrificing flavor.

How long does it take to cook chicken and sausage gumbo?

Expect about 1 hour from start to finish, depending on your prep speed and simmer time.

Can I freeze leftover chicken and sausage gumbo?

Absolutely! Just ensure it’s cooled completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers.

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