Cajun Chicken and Sausage Gumbo

Cajun Chicken and Sausage Gumbo Recipe: A Hearty Southern Delight
Looking for a hearty and flavorful dish that will transport you straight to the heart of Louisiana? Look no further than this delicious Cajun Chicken and Sausage Gumbo recipe! This classic Southern dish is packed with bold flavors and spices, making it the perfect comfort food for any occasion.

Ingredients (serves 6):

- 1 lb. boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 lb. smoked sausage, sliced into rounds
- 1 large onion, diced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 3 stalks celery, diced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz.)
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 tsp. dried thyme
- 1 tsp. dried oregano
- 1 tsp. smoked paprika
- 1 tsp. cayenne pepper
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Cooked white rice, for serving
- Chopped green onions, for garnish


Cooking Tips:

- Use a heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven to prevent burning and ensure even cooking.
- Make sure to stir the roux constantly to prevent it from burning and sticking to the bottom of the pot.
- For a thicker gumbo, add more flour to the roux.
- Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to your desired level of spiciness.
Instructions:

1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the flour and stir constantly to make a roux. Cook the roux, stirring constantly, until it turns a dark brown color, about 15-20 minutes.
2. Add the onion, bell pepper, celery, and garlic to the pot and cook until the vegetables are softened, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Add the chicken and sausage to the pot and cook until the chicken is browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Add the chicken broth, diced tomatoes, bay leaves, thyme, oregano, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper to the pot. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 1-2 hours, stirring occasionally.
5. Serve the gumbo over cooked white rice and garnish with chopped green onions.
Appearance and Taste:
This Cajun Chicken and Sausage Gumbo is a rich and hearty dish that is sure to satisfy your cravings for bold and spicy flavors. The gumbo has a thick and creamy texture, thanks to the roux, and is packed with tender chicken, smoky sausage, and a medley of vegetables. The spices add a kick of heat and depth of flavor, while the rice provides a perfect balance to the dish. Overall, this gumbo is a true Southern delight that will leave you feeling warm and satisfied.
Type of Dish: Main Course
3 Main Ingredients: Chicken, Sausage, Roux