This rich, soul-warming Chicken and Sausage Gumbo brings together tender chicken thighs, smoky Andouille sausage, and a deep, dark roux that tastes like pure Louisiana comfort. I first tried gumbo at a tiny restaurant in New Orleans years ago, and I've been chasing that same earthy, spicy flavor ever since. The smell of that roux slowly browning in the pot fills your whole kitchen with warmth, and the best part? It's simpler to make than you'd think.
If you're craving something hearty and cozy, try pairing this with Creamy Cajun Potato Soup for a full Southern feast, or serve it alongside Mac and Cheese for a comforting dinner spread. And if you love bold, warming flavors, don't miss Chili Con Carne for another family favorite.
What Makes This Chicken and Sausage Gumbo So Special
Real gumbo isn't just a soup. It's a slow-cooked labor of love that rewards your patience with deep, layered flavors you can't rush. This Chicken and Sausage Gumbo starts with a homemade dark roux, the kind that takes time and attention but gives you that signature nutty richness. The combination of chicken and spicy smoked sausage creates the perfect balance of tender meat and smoky heat, while the Creole gumbo spices add warmth without overpowering the dish.
What I love most is how forgiving this Chicken and Sausage Gumbo is. You can adjust the cayenne to your heat preference, swap the sausage if needed, and still end up with a pot of Louisiana gumbo that tastes like it came straight from the bayou.
Jump to:
- What Makes This Chicken and Sausage Gumbo So Special
- Chicken and Sausage Gumbo Ingredients
- How to Make Chicken and Sausage Gumbo
- Substitutions and Variations
- Equipment For Chicken and Sausage Gumbo
- How to Store Chicken and Sausage Gumbo
- Serving Suggestions
- Expert Tips
- Why You'll Love This Chicken and Sausage Gumbo
- FAQ
- Related
- Pairing
- Authentic Chicken and Sausage Gumbo
Chicken and Sausage Gumbo Ingredients
Everything you need to make this homemade Chicken and Sausage Gumbo from scratch.
See Recipe Card Below This Post For Ingredient Quantities
- Light flavored oil (vegetable or canola oil): The oil helps create the roux and adds richness to the base. You'll use a small amount to brown the chicken first, then the rest for the roux.
- Boneless, skinless chicken thighs (about four chicken thighs): Chicken thighs stay tender and juicy even after long simmering. They add more flavor than chicken breasts and shred beautifully.
- Salt and cracked black pepper (to taste): Essential for seasoning the chicken and balancing the flavors throughout the gumbo.
- Spicy smoked sausage (such as Andouille): Andouille sausage brings smoky heat and authentic Louisiana flavor. It adds a spicy kick that makes this gumbo irresistible.
- Flour: Combined with oil, this creates the dark roux that gives gumbo its signature color and nutty depth.
- Onion (yellow or white, chopped): Forms part of the "holy trinity" of Cajun cooking and adds sweetness and body to the gumbo.
- Green bell pepper (rinsed, seeded, and chopped): Adds a fresh, slightly grassy flavor that balances the richness.
- Red bell pepper (rinsed, seeded, and chopped): Brings sweetness and a pop of color to the pot.
- Celery ribs (rinsed, sliced lengthwise, and chopped): Completes the holy trinity with its earthy, aromatic flavor.
- Garlic (minced): Adds warmth and depth. Fresh garlic makes a big difference here.
- Cayenne pepper: Controls the heat level. Start with less if you prefer a milder gumbo, or use the full amount for authentic spice.
- Paprika (sweet or smoked): Adds color and a subtle sweetness or smokiness, depending on which type you choose.
- Chicken stock (store-bought or homemade): The liquid base that brings everything together. Homemade stock adds extra richness, but store-bought works perfectly.
- Dried bay leaves: Adds earthy, herbal notes that develop during the long simmer.
- Sprigs fresh thyme: Brings a fresh, aromatic quality that complements the smoky sausage.
- Worcestershire sauce (optional): Adds umami and a touch of tanginess that deepens the overall flavor.
How to Make Chicken and Sausage Gumbo
Here's how to make this Chicken and Sausage Gumbo step by step.
Brown the Chicken: Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large, heavy-bottomed Dutch oven or stockpot over medium-high heat. Season chicken thighs generously with salt and pepper on both sides, then cook until they develop a golden-brown crust, about 5 to 6 minutes per side. Transfer chicken to a paper towel-lined plate to drain off excess oil. Once the chicken is cool enough to handle, shred the meat into bite-sized pieces and set it aside.
Cook the Sausage: Add the sliced sausage to the same pot and cook until the edges turn lightly browned and the fat starts to render, about 5 minutes. Transfer the sausage to a paper towel-lined plate to drain.
Make the Roux: Add the remaining ⅔ cup of oil to the Dutch oven, followed by the flour. Stir everything together with a wooden spoon until you have a thick, smooth paste. Lower the heat to medium-low and cook, stirring frequently and scraping the bottom of the pot, until the roux turns a deep, dark chocolate brown, about 30 to 40 minutes. This step takes patience, but it's where all the magic happens. Don't rush it, and don't let it burn.
Add Vegetables: Once your roux reaches that rich, dark color, add the chopped onion, green bell pepper, red bell pepper, and celery. Stir everything together and cook over medium heat until the vegetables soften and smell fragrant, about 5 to 7 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 more minute, stirring constantly.
Season: Stir in the black pepper, paprika, and cayenne until everything is well combined. Pour in the chicken stock, then add the bay leaves and fresh thyme sprigs. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
Simmer the Gumbo: Taste the broth and add more salt as needed. Let the gumbo simmer uncovered for 40 minutes, stirring occasionally to keep the bottom from sticking. Add the shredded chicken, sausage slices, and Worcestershire sauce. Continue simmering for another 35 to 40 minutes until the gumbo thickens to a rich, stew-like consistency. If you see any fat rising to the top, skim it off with a spoon.
Finish and Serve: Remove the pot from the heat and fish out the bay leaves and thyme sprigs. Taste one more time and adjust the salt and pepper if needed. Serve your gumbo in deep bowls over warm white rice, and garnish with sliced scallions for a fresh, bright finish.
Substitutions and Variations
Sausage: If you can't find Andouille, use kielbasa or any smoked sausage you have on hand. It won't be quite as spicy, but it'll still taste great.
Chicken: You can use bone-in chicken thighs for even more flavor. Just simmer them longer and remove the bones before serving.
Heat Level: Cut back on the cayenne if you're cooking for kids, or add a pinch of red pepper flakes for extra kick.
Gluten-Free: Swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend when making the roux. It works just as well.
Vegetable Add-Ins: Some people love adding okra to their gumbo okra for extra thickness and a traditional touch. Stir in about a cup of sliced okra during the last 20 minutes of simmering.
Equipment For Chicken and Sausage Gumbo
- 6-quart Dutch oven: A heavy-bottomed pot is essential for making the roux evenly and preventing scorching.
- Wooden spoon: Perfect for stirring the roux and scraping the bottom of the pot.
- Slotted spoon: Helps you transfer the Chicken and Sausage Gumbo without bringing too much oil along.
- Paper towels: For draining the browned chicken and sausage.
How to Store Chicken and Sausage Gumbo
Refrigerator: Store leftover Chicken and Sausage Gumbo in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. The flavors get even better as it sits.
Freezer: Freeze gumbo in individual portions for up to 3 months. Let it cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers.
Reheating: Warm Chicken and Sausage Gumbo gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of chicken stock if it's too thick. You can also microwave individual portions, but stovetop reheating gives you the best texture.
Serving Suggestions
Over buttered white rice: The classic way to serve gumbo with rice. The rice soaks up all that rich, flavorful broth.
With cornbread: A warm slice of cornbread on the side is perfect for mopping up every last drop.
Topped with fresh scallions: The bright, oniony bite cuts through the richness and adds a pop of color.
Alongside potato salad: A cool, creamy potato salad balances the heat and makes it feel like a real Southern feast.
Expert Tips
Don't rush the roux. That dark chocolate color is what gives gumbo its depth. Stir constantly once it starts to darken, and keep the heat medium-low to avoid burning.
Use a heavy pot. A lightweight pot can develop hot spots and burn your roux. A Dutch oven distributes heat evenly and gives you better control.
Taste as you go. Gumbo should be well-seasoned at every stage. Adjust the salt, pepper, and cayenne throughout the cooking process.
Let it rest. If you have time, let the finished gumbo sit for 15 minutes before serving. The flavors settle and blend even more.
Why You'll Love This Chicken and Sausage Gumbo
This Chicken and Sausage Gumbo is one of those recipes that makes your house smell incredible and tastes even better the next day. Here's why it's a keeper:
It's deeply flavorful. The dark roux gumbo creates a foundation of nutty, toasted richness that you just can't get any other way.
It's hearty and filling. Between the chicken thighs, sausage, and vegetables, this Cajun stew with chicken and sausage is a complete meal in a bowl.
It's perfect for feeding a crowd. This Chicken and Sausage Gumbo makes six generous servings, and it reheats beautifully for leftovers.
It's authentic without being complicated. You don't need hard-to-find ingredients or special equipment, just a good Dutch oven and a little patience.
FAQ
What's the difference between Cajun and Creole gumbo?
Chicken and Sausage Gumbo usually has a darker roux and skips the tomatoes, while Creole gumbo often includes tomatoes and has a lighter, more complex flavor profile. This Chicken and Sausage Gumbo leans Cajun with its dark roux gumbo base. My mom always said Cajun cooking is more rustic and country-style, and that's exactly what this tastes like.
How long should gumbo simmer for the best flavor?
Let your gumbo simmer for at least 1 hour and 15 minutes total after adding the stock. The longer simmer lets the flavors meld and the broth thicken naturally. If you have extra time, let it go a little longer for even deeper flavor.
Can I use a different type of sausage in gumbo?
Absolutely. Kielbasa, chorizo, or any smoked sausage works in a pinch. Andouille is traditional and brings the most authentic flavor, but use what you can find. Just make sure it's a smoked sausage with some spice to it.
How do you make gumbo thicker?
Let it simmer uncovered so the liquid reduces naturally. You can also add a bit more roux if you have extra, or stir in some okra during the last 20 minutes. The okra releases a natural thickener as it cooks.
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Pairing
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Authentic Chicken and Sausage Gumbo
🛒 Ingredients
- ⅔ cup plus 1 tablespoon light-flavored oil vegetable or canola oil
- 1.25 pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs about 4 thighs
- Salt and cracked black pepper to taste
- ¼ pound spicy smoked sausage such as Andouille sliced
- ⅔ cup all-purpose flour
- 1 large onion yellow or white chopped
- ½ large green bell pepper rinsed seeded and chopped
- 1 medium red bell pepper rinsed seeded and chopped
- 2 large celery ribs rinsed sliced lengthwise and chopped
- 5 cloves garlic minced
- ¼-½ teaspoon cayenne pepper adjust to taste
- 1-2 tablespoons paprika sweet or smoked
- 4 cups chicken stock store-bought or homemade
- 2 dried bay leaves
- 2 sprigs fresh thyme
- 1-2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce optional
📋 Instructions
- Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large, heavy-bottomed Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
- Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper on both sides. Cook them in the pot until browned on both sides, about 5-6 minutes per side. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain. Let cool, then shred the chicken using two forks or your hands. Set aside.
- Add the sliced sausage to the same pot and cook until lightly browned, about 5 minutes. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain using a slotted spoon.
- Add the remaining ⅔ cup of oil to the pot, then whisk in the flour. Stir with a wooden spoon to form a paste. Lower the heat to medium-low and cook the roux, stirring constantly, until it reaches a dark chocolate brown color. This should take 30-40 minutes. If the roux starts to burn, lower the heat further. Be cautious and stir frequently to prevent scorching.
- Once the roux reaches the desired color, add the onion, bell peppers, and celery. Stir to combine. Cook, stirring frequently, until the vegetables are softened, about 5-7 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for 1 more minute.
- Stir in black pepper, paprika, and cayenne pepper. Then pour in the chicken stock, add the bay leaves and thyme, and stir to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat.
- Let the gumbo simmer uncovered for 40 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add salt to taste as needed.
- Add the shredded chicken, sausage, and Worcestershire sauce (if using). Simmer the gumbo for an additional 35-40 minutes until it thickens to a stew-like consistency. Skim off any fat that rises to the top during cooking.
- Remove the gumbo from the heat and discard the bay leaves and thyme sprigs. Adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. Serve with warm white rice and garnish with sliced scallions.
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