Classic Chicken and Sausage Gumbo

Follow our step-by-step guide on how to make Classic Chicken and Sausage Gumbo.

1. Step 1

   Start by preparing your chicken.

2. Step 2

   Gently peel back the skin of the drumsticks and breast halves, but don’t remove it entirely.

3. Step 3

   Make several deep cuts in the meat to allow the flavors to penetrate, then sprinkle 3 teaspoons of Cajun seasoning generously into the cuts and over the surface of the chicken.

4. Step 4

   Once seasoned, carefully replace the skin and set the chicken aside to soak in those delicious flavors.

5. Step 5

   In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 1/2 cup of olive oil and a splash of white wine.

6. Step 6

   Add your seasoned chicken to the bowl, ensuring each piece is well coated in the marinade.

7. Step 7

   Cover the bowl and let it chill in the refrigerator for about an hour.

8. Step 8

   This step is crucial for infusing the chicken with flavor and tenderness.

9. Step 9

   After marinating, take the chicken out of the bowl and give it a gentle shake to remove any excess marinade.

10. Step 10

    Heat 1/4 cup of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.

11. Step 11

    If your skillet is small, cook the chicken in batches to avoid overcrowding.

12. Step 12

    Sear the chicken until it’s beautifully browned on both sides, which should take around 5 minutes per side.

13. Step 13

    Once browned, transfer the chicken to a large soup pot and pour in the chicken broth.

14. Step 14

    Bring this mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer until the chicken is tender, about 20 minutes.

15. Step 15

    While the chicken is simmering, grab another skillet and heat 3 tablespoons of olive oil.

16. Step 16

    Sauté the chopped onion, bell pepper, and celery until the onion turns translucent and the peppers soften, which should take about 8 minutes.

17. Step 17

    Once done, remove the skillet from the heat and set the sautéed veggies aside.

18. Step 18

    Next, let’s make a roux.

19. Step 19

    In a nonstick pan, combine flour and canola oil, stirring continuously over medium-high heat.

20. Step 20

    Keep an eye on it as you cook, stirring until the roux reaches a deep brown color, similar to milk chocolate.

21. Step 21

    This process will take about 30 to 40 minutes, so patience is key—just be careful not to let it burn! Once it’s ready, take it off the heat and let it cool for about 5 minutes.

22. Step 22

    Now, stir the sautéed onion mixture and 1 cup of boiling water into the roux, mixing well to avoid any splatters.

23. Step 23

    Return this mixture to medium heat and let it simmer until it thickens, which should take around 10 minutes.

24. Step 24

    Once thickened, add this flavorful roux to the pot with the chicken, stirring to combine everything beautifully.

25. Step 25

    Then, pour in the remaining 9 cups of boiling water, season with the last 2 teaspoons of Cajun seasoning, and bring it all to a rolling boil.

26. Step 26

    After that, reduce the heat and let it simmer for an hour, allowing all those wonderful flavors to meld together.

27. Step 27

    While the gumbo is simmering, take a moment to brown the smoked sausage in a skillet with 2 tablespoons of olive oil.

28. Step 28

    Sprinkle in some garlic powder and cayenne pepper for an extra kick.

29. Step 29

    Once the sausage is nicely browned, add it to the gumbo and let it simmer for an additional 30 minutes.

30. Step 30

    After this, remove the chicken from the pot, discard the skin and bones, and return the tender meat to the gumbo.

31. Step 31

    Let it simmer for another 15 minutes, skimming off any oil that rises to the top for a cleaner finish.

32. Step 32

    As your gumbo simmers, prepare the jasmine rice.

33. Step 33

    In a saucepan, combine 3 cups of water with the rice.

34. Step 34

    Bring it to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low, cover, and let it simmer until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed, which should take about 20 to 25 minutes.

35. Step 35

    When everything is ready, serve the gumbo over a generous scoop of hot jasmine rice.

36. Step 36

    For the finishing touch, sprinkle with chopped green onions to add a pop of color and freshness.

37. Step 37

    Enjoy this hearty, flavorful dish that’s sure to warm your soul and impress your guests!.