Name: Chicken and Sausage Gumbo Soup Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Cuisine: Cajun
Ingredients: 1 lb smoked sausage, sliced; 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded; 1 onion, diced; 1 bell pepper, diced; 2 celery stalks, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 6 cups chicken broth; ¼ cup oil; ¼ cup flour; 1 tsp paprika; 1 tsp thyme; ½ tsp cayenne pepper (optional); Salt and pepper to taste; Cooked rice for serving

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If you crave a hearty, soul-soothing meal that bursts with smoky flavors and tender textures, this Chicken and Sausage Gumbo Soup Recipe is your new best friend in the kitchen. Combining the richness of a deeply browned roux, the smoky goodness of sausage, and the comforting bite of shredded chicken, this Southern classic is truly a celebration of Cajun cuisine. Every spoonful delivers a perfect balance of bold spices and fresh vegetables, making it an irresistible dish that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a white bowl filled with a brown soup that has chunks of meat and small pieces of green herbs floating in it. The soup looks thick and hearty, with a few pieces of shredded meat visible throughout. A silver spoon is inside the bowl on the right side, partially submerged in the soup. The bowl sits on a white marbled surface, and behind it are two cans: one dark brown with a label, and the other light blue and yellow with a colorful design. The scene is simple and focused on the bowl of soup. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Gathering your ingredients is both simple and exciting because each one brings an essential element to the Chicken and Sausage Gumbo Soup Recipe. From the smoky sausage to the aromatic trio of onion, bell pepper, and celery, these components build a layered, flavorful soup that’s as satisfying as it is colorful.

1 lb smoked sausage, sliced: Adds smokiness and a sturdy, savory base to the gumbo.
2 cups cooked chicken, shredded: Brings tender meatiness that absorbs the spicy broth beautifully.
¼ cup oil: Essential for creating the roux which forms the soup’s deeply flavorful foundation.
¼ cup flour: Combined with oil to thicken the gumbo and give it that signature richness.
1 onion, diced: Provides sweetness and depth when sautéed.
1 bell pepper, diced: Adds a pop of color and subtle sweetness.
2 celery stalks, chopped: Supplies a gentle, herbaceous crunch balancing the flavors.
3 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses a warm, aromatic layer to the dish.
6 cups chicken broth: The heart of the soup giving it body and soul.
1 tsp paprika: Delivers smoky undertones and vibrant color.
1 tsp thyme: Offers earthy, slightly minty notes complementing the meat.
½ tsp cayenne (optional): Kicks up the heat for those who like their gumbo with a spicy zing.
Salt & pepper: To taste, for enhancing all the flavors.
Cooked rice for serving: The classic accompaniment that soaks up all the deliciousness.

How to Make Chicken and Sausage Gumbo Soup Recipe

Step 1: Make a Dark Brown Roux

Start by heating the oil in a large, heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat. Slowly whisk in the flour, stirring constantly. The magic here is patience—cook the mixture until it reaches a deep brown color. This roux is the soul of the gumbo and lays down that rich, nutty flavor foundation that you’ll love.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

Once your roux has developed that beautiful color, add the diced onion, bell pepper, and chopped celery to the pot. Cook them until they’re soft and fragrant, about 5 to 7 minutes. This “holy trinity” of vegetables is a cornerstone of Cajun cooking and elevates the gumbo’s aroma and texture.

Step 3: Add Garlic and Spices

Stir in the minced garlic, paprika, thyme, and optional cayenne pepper. Let the garlic cook until just fragrant, about a minute, taking care not to burn it. These spices layer extra warmth and complexity, getting the soup ready for the broth and proteins.

Step 4: Combine Broth, Sausage, and Chicken

Pour in the chicken broth, then add the sliced smoked sausage and shredded chicken. Give everything a good stir to combine the flavors and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. This is where all those savory ingredients start to meld beautifully.

Step 5: Simmer Until Perfect

Let the gumbo simmer for 30 to 40 minutes, stirring occasionally. This slow simmer allows the flavors to deepen and the sausage to infuse the broth with its smoky goodness. When the stew is rich and slightly thickened, it’s ready for the final seasoning.

Step 6: Season and Serve

Taste your gumbo and adjust the salt and pepper as needed. Serve the hot soup over a bed of fluffy cooked rice, allowing the rice to soak up every flavorful drop. Your Chicken and Sausage Gumbo Soup Recipe is now ready to enjoy!

How to Serve Chicken and Sausage Gumbo Soup Recipe

The image shows a white plate with a mound of white rice in the center, topped with small bits of green herbs. Around the rice is a brown sauce with visible pieces of cooked meat and small green and orange vegetable chunks. The sauce has a shiny, smooth texture, and the ingredients are evenly spread around the rice. The background is a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Sprinkling fresh chopped parsley or green onions on top adds a bright and fresh touch that balances the deep, smoky flavors of the gumbo. A dash of hot sauce can also be a fantastic addition for those who appreciate an extra spark of heat.

Side Dishes

This gumbo pairs beautifully with crusty French bread or cornbread to sop up every last bit of the rich broth. A simple green salad on the side adds a refreshing crunch that contrasts nicely with the hearty soup.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve the gumbo in hollowed-out mini pumpkins or bell peppers for an inviting presentation. You can also offer it with a variety of toppings on the side—think crispy fried okra, cheddar cheese, or even a spoonful of tangy coleslaw to bring some creamy texture.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover gumbo in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors actually deepen as it sits, so leftovers are just as delicious—if not more so—as the day you made it.

Freezing

Chicken and Sausage Gumbo Soup Recipe freezes wonderfully. Portion it into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 3 months. Just make sure to leave room for expansion and thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. If the gumbo feels too thick after refrigeration or freezing, add a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen the consistency and revive that perfect soup texture.

FAQs

Can I use other types of sausage for this gumbo?

Absolutely! While smoked sausage is traditional and adds great flavor, andouille or kielbasa work beautifully too. Just choose a sausage with good seasoning to maintain that signature smoky, spicy gumbo taste.

Is it necessary to make the roux so dark?

The depth of the roux color really influences the gumbo’s taste. The darker roux brings a richer, nuttier flavor, but be careful not to burn it. If you prefer a milder taste, a medium brown roux is also fine.

Can I make this gumbo vegetarian?

Of course! Simply swap the sausage and chicken for hearty vegetables like mushrooms, okra, and tofu. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and follow the same cooking steps for a tasty plant-based gumbo.

What kind of rice is best to serve with gumbo?

Long grain white rice is the classic choice, but jasmine or basmati work well too. The key is to cook the rice fluffy and light, so it soaks up the gumbo without becoming mushy.

How spicy is this gumbo?

The heat is customizable thanks to the optional cayenne pepper. You can leave it out for a milder flavor or increase slightly if you love some kick. The smoked sausage also adds subtle spiciness, so taste as you go.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about making a pot of Chicken and Sausage Gumbo Soup Recipe that fills your home with warmth and invites everyone to the table. Whether you’re craving a comforting solo meal or cooking for family and friends, this gumbo is guaranteed to satisfy with its bold flavors and soulful charm. Give it a try today—you might just find your new favorite recipe for any season!