Classic New Orleans Gumbo Recipe (Rich & Hearty)

By Jason Griffith · March 4, 2026

New Orleans Cajun Chicken Andouille Sausage Gumbo

If there’s one dish that captures the soul of Louisiana cooking, it’s gumbo. This New Orleans Cajun Chicken Andouille Sausage Gumbo is rich, bold, and layered with deep flavor thanks to a dark chocolate-colored roux, smoky sausage, tender chicken, and the classic “holy trinity” of bell pepper, celery, and onion.

Created by Jason Griffith for Chef Maniac, this recipe brings authentic Cajun comfort straight to your kitchen — no plane ticket required.


Why I Love This Recipe

Gumbo isn’t just a meal — it’s an experience. The slow-cooked roux builds incredible depth, while the smoky andouille sausage and seasoned chicken create a hearty, satisfying bowl.

What makes this recipe special:

  • Deep, dark roux for bold flavor
  • Classic Cajun seasoning
  • Smoky sausage and tender chicken
  • Perfectly balanced heat
  • Ideal for gatherings or meal prep

This is comfort food with history and heart.

New Orleans Cajun Chicken Andouille Sausage Gumbo

New Orleans Cajun Chicken Andouille Sausage Gumbo

Rich and hearty Cajun gumbo with chicken, andouille sausage, deep brown roux, and classic Creole vegetables.

Prep: 10 min | Cook: min | Total: min

Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients

  • 1 lb chicken, cut into pieces
  • 12 oz andouille or smoked sausage, sliced
  • 1 tablespoon oil
  • 3 teaspoons Cajun seasoning (for chicken and sausage)
  • 1 1/4 cups vegetable oil
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 64 oz chicken broth
  • 1/2 cup bell pepper, diced
  • 1/2 cup celery, diced
  • 1/2 cup onions, diced
  • 1 cup okra, sliced
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 teaspoons Cajun seasoning
  • 3 teaspoons gumbo file
  • 2 teaspoons hot sauce
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • Cooked white rice, for serving

Instructions

  1. Season the chicken and sausage with 3 teaspoons of Cajun seasoning. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large pot over medium heat and sear the chicken and sausage until browned. Remove the chicken and set aside.
  2. In the same pot, combine vegetable oil and flour. Stir constantly over medium heat for about 45 minutes until the roux turns a deep chocolate-brown color.
  3. Add the diced bell pepper, celery, and onions to the roux. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. Slowly pour in the chicken broth while stirring and bring to a simmer.
  4. Stir in black pepper, Cajun seasoning, gumbo file, hot sauce, and sliced okra. Mix well.
  5. Return the seared chicken and sausage to the pot. Simmer on low heat for 15 minutes until flavors meld and chicken is fully cooked.
  6. Adjust seasoning as needed and serve hot over cooked white rice.

Nutrition

  • Calories: 2085 calories
  • Fat: 190 g
  • Carbs: 45 g
  • Protein: 60 g

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Ingredients

  • 1 lb chicken, cut into pieces
  • 12 oz andouille or smoked sausage, sliced
  • 1 tablespoon oil
  • 3 teaspoons Cajun seasoning (for chicken and sausage)
  • 1 1/4 cups vegetable oil
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 64 oz chicken broth
  • 1/2 cup bell pepper, diced
  • 1/2 cup celery, diced
  • 1/2 cup onions, diced
  • 1 cup okra, sliced
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 teaspoons Cajun seasoning
  • 3 teaspoons gumbo file
  • 2 teaspoons hot sauce
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • Cooked white rice, for serving

Ingredient Notes & Tips

  • Andouille sausage adds authentic smoky heat.
  • The darker the roux, the deeper the flavor — patience is key.
  • Gumbo file (ground sassafras leaves) thickens and adds traditional flavor.
  • Frozen okra works well if fresh isn’t available.

Always stir the roux constantly to prevent burning — it’s the foundation of the dish.


How to Make Cajun Chicken & Sausage Gumbo

1. Season & Sear

Season chicken and sausage with 3 teaspoons of Cajun seasoning.

Heat oil in a large heavy pot over medium heat. Sear chicken and sausage until browned. Remove chicken and set aside.

2. Make the Roux

In the same pot, combine vegetable oil and flour.

Stir constantly over medium heat for about 45 minutes until the roux turns deep chocolate-brown. This step builds the rich base of your gumbo.

3. Add the Holy Trinity

Stir in diced bell pepper, celery, and onions. Cook 5 minutes until softened.

Slowly pour in chicken broth while stirring to prevent lumps. Bring to a gentle simmer.

4. Build Flavor

Add black pepper, Cajun seasoning, gumbo file, hot sauce, and sliced okra. Stir well.

5. Simmer

Return chicken and sausage to the pot. Simmer on low for 15 minutes until chicken is fully cooked and flavors meld beautifully.

6. Serve

Ladle hot gumbo over cooked white rice.


Tips for Success

  • Keep heat moderate when making the roux — slow and steady wins.
  • If the roux burns, start over (it will taste bitter).
  • Adjust heat level with more or less hot sauce.
  • Gumbo tastes even better the next day.

Serving Suggestions & Pairings

Gumbo is hearty on its own, but these pairings complete the meal:

Planning ahead for busy mornings? Check out Make-Ahead Breakfast Burritos – The Freezer-Friendly Morning Game Changer.


Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 2085
  • Fat: 190g
  • Carbohydrates: 45g
  • Protein: 60g

(Approximate values based on 4 servings.)


Storage & Leftover Tips

  • Refrigerator: Store in airtight containers for up to 4 days.
  • Freezer: Freeze for up to 3 months.
  • Reheat: Warm gently on the stovetop, adding broth if needed.

Like many stews, gumbo develops even deeper flavor after resting overnight.


More Recipes You’ll Love

If you enjoyed this hearty Cajun classic, try:

Each recipe is comforting, satisfying, and perfect for sharing.


Final Thoughts

New Orleans Cajun Chicken Andouille Sausage Gumbo is bold, soulful, and deeply satisfying. With its rich roux, smoky sausage, and perfectly seasoned broth, it’s a dish that brings warmth to any table.

If you try this recipe, I’d love to hear how your roux turned out. Leave a comment, share your spice level tweaks, and follow along for more comforting classics from Jason Griffith at Chef Maniac. Laissez les bons temps rouler! 🍲✨