Crock Pot Chicken and Sausage Gumbo: 7 Flavorful Tips

By:

Christina R. Jones

October 10, 2025

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Ah, gumbo! Just saying the word brings back memories of warm, cozy family gatherings. There’s something undeniably comforting about a big pot of gumbo simmering away, filling the house with its rich, savory aroma. My love for crock pot chicken and sausage gumbo started years ago at my Aunt Clara’s kitchen table, where we’d gather around bowls full of this hearty dish, chitchatting and laughing until our sides ached. It’s a dish that’s not just about the food; it’s about connection, warmth, and sharing stories with the people you love.

crock pot chicken and sausage gumbo - detail 1

What I adore about this recipe is how easy it is to prepare! Just toss everything into the crock pot, and let the magic happen while you go about your day. You don’t need to fuss over the stove or worry about timing too much, which is a blessing when you’ve got a million things on your to-do list. And trust me, the flavors that develop over those slow cooking hours? Wow! Each bite is a delightful explosion of spices, tender chicken, and savory sausage, all mingling together in a beautiful dance. You’ll be left craving more, I promise!

This gumbo isn’t just a meal; it’s a hug in a bowl. Whether it’s a chilly evening or a festive gathering, it brings a sense of joy and satisfaction that’s hard to beat. So, grab your crock pot and let’s dive into this delicious journey together!

Ingredients List

Gathering the right ingredients is key to making the best crock pot chicken and sausage gumbo. Here’s what you’ll need:

1 pound chicken thighs, boneless and skinless
1 pound smoked sausage, sliced
1 onion, diced
1 bell pepper, diced
2 celery stalks, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
4 cups chicken broth
2 cups okra, sliced
2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
1 bay leaf
Salt and pepper to taste
Cooked rice for serving

Make sure to have everything prepped and ready to go! The diced vegetables and sliced sausage will blend beautifully, creating a fabulous base for your gumbo. And oh, the aroma when it starts cooking? You’re going to love it!

How to Prepare Crock Pot Chicken and Sausage Gumbo

Now that you’ve got your ingredients gathered, let’s dive into the steps to make this delightful crock pot chicken and sausage gumbo! Don’t worry; it’s super straightforward, and I promise you’ll be amazed at how easy it is to whip up such a flavorful dish.

Step-by-Step Instructions

First things first, grab your trusty crock pot. Toss in the boneless, skinless chicken thighs along with the sliced smoked sausage. This duo is going to provide a wonderful base for your gumbo, bringing together rich flavors that meld beautifully.
Next, add in the diced onion, bell pepper, celery, and minced garlic. I love the vibrant colors of these veggies; they not only add flavor but also make the dish visually appealing! Stir everything together a bit to get those flavors mingling.
Now it’s time to add the canned diced tomatoes and chicken broth. This is where the magic happens! The tomatoes will give a lovely acidity that balances all those rich flavors. Give it another good stir to combine everything evenly.
Then, toss in the sliced okra, Cajun seasoning, bay leaf, and sprinkle in some salt and pepper to taste. Don’t be shy with that Cajun seasoning; it’s what gives the gumbo its signature kick! Make sure everything is well mixed so that each bite is packed with flavor.
Cover your crock pot and set it to cook. If you’re in a hurry, go for the high setting and let it cook for about 3-4 hours. If you have more time, the low setting is perfect for 6-8 hours. Either way, the longer it cooks, the more those flavors will develop and deepen!
When the cooking time is up, don’t forget to remove the bay leaf before serving. It might be tempting to leave it in, but trust me, you don’t want anyone chomping down on that!
Finally, serve your delicious gumbo over a scoop of hot, cooked rice. This step is vital; the rice soaks up all that flavorful broth, making each bite even more satisfying. Enjoy!

And there you have it! A simple yet incredibly tasty crock pot chicken and sausage gumbo that’s sure to impress. Just think about the warmth and satisfaction it’ll bring to your table!

Nutritional Information

Understanding the nutritional values of your meals can be quite helpful, especially when you want to balance deliciousness with health! Here’s a rough estimate of the nutritional information per serving of this hearty crock pot chicken and sausage gumbo:

Serving Size: 1 cup
Calories: 350
Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Unsaturated Fat: 10g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 80mg
Sodium: 800mg
Carbohydrates: 25g
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 3g
Protein: 20g

Keep in mind, these values can vary based on the specific ingredients you use, especially if you decide to swap out certain items or adjust the seasoning. It’s all about making this gumbo your own while still enjoying its comforting and hearty essence!

Tips for Success

Now that you’re ready to dive into making your crock pot chicken and sausage gumbo, here are some tips that’ll help elevate your dish and make the process even smoother!

Adjusting Spice Levels

If you like a little kick, don’t hesitate to amp up the Cajun seasoning! You can start with the recommended amount and then taste it before serving. If you want it spicier, just sprinkle in more! Conversely, if you’re cooking for little ones or folks who prefer milder flavors, feel free to dial it back a bit. You can always add hot sauce at the table for those who want more heat!

Experimenting with Vegetables

One of the best parts of gumbo is how versatile it is! You can definitely throw in extra veggies to suit your taste. Bell peppers, carrots, or even zucchini can add great flavor and nutrition. Just chop them up and toss them in with the other ingredients at the beginning. If you want to add greens, throw in some chopped spinach or kale in the last hour of cooking so they stay vibrant and fresh.

Getting the Best Flavor

Don’t skimp on the sautéing! While this recipe is all about the crock pot magic, if you have the time, I recommend briefly sautéing the onions, bell peppers, and garlic in a bit of oil before adding them to the pot. This simple step enhances their flavors and gives your gumbo an even richer taste. Trust me, it’s worth the extra few minutes!

Using Quality Ingredients

Quality matters! Whenever possible, opt for high-quality chicken and sausage. A good smoked sausage brings depth to the dish that you’ll really notice in the end product. Also, use low-sodium chicken broth to have better control over the saltiness in your gumbo.

Don’t Rush the Cooking Time

Remember, patience is key! Letting the gumbo simmer low and slow allows all those amazing flavors to meld together beautifully. If you’re using the low setting, I highly recommend going for the full 8 hours. It’s so worth it when you get that perfect, rich taste!

With these tips, you’re all set to create a crock pot chicken and sausage gumbo that’ll make your taste buds sing! Enjoy the process and happy cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Effortless Preparation: Just toss everything into the crock pot and let it do the work for you. It’s perfect for busy days!
Hearty and Flavorful: Each bite is a warm hug, packed with rich flavors from the chicken, sausage, and spices that create a symphony of tastes.
Healthy Ingredients: With boneless chicken thighs, fresh vegetables, and wholesome spices, you can feel good about serving this to your family.
Freezer-Friendly: This gumbo freezes beautifully, making it a fantastic option for meal prep or leftovers. Just thaw and reheat for a quick meal!
Customizable: You can easily adjust the spice levels or add more veggies to suit everyone’s palate, making it a hit for all ages!

Serving Suggestions

Now that your crock pot chicken and sausage gumbo is ready to be served, let’s talk about what to pair it with to elevate that delicious experience!

First off, a scoop of fluffy, cooked rice is a must! It not only soaks up the rich, flavorful broth but also adds a comforting element to the dish. You could also consider serving it over quinoa or cauliflower rice if you want a little twist or a healthier alternative.

For a crunchy contrast, a fresh green salad makes a lovely side. I love tossing together mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a zesty vinaigrette. The brightness of the salad balances the hearty gumbo perfectly!

If you want to add a little Southern flair, why not serve some warm, crusty French bread or cornbread on the side? They’re perfect for dipping into that savory broth and will have everyone coming back for seconds!

And let’s not forget about garnishes! A sprinkle of fresh parsley or green onions on top of each bowl not only adds a pop of color but also a fresh burst of flavor. If you’re feeling adventurous, a dash of hot sauce can spice things up for those who like it fiery!

With these delicious serving suggestions, your crock pot chicken and sausage gumbo will shine even brighter at the dinner table. Enjoy every bite!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Leftovers are one of the best parts of making crock pot chicken and sausage gumbo! After all, it gets even better the next day as those flavors continue to meld together. Here’s how to store and reheat it properly so you can enjoy every last drop!

Storing Leftovers

Once you’ve had your fill, let the gumbo cool down a bit. Then, transfer it into airtight containers. I love using glass containers because they’re easy to stack and don’t retain odors. Make sure to leave a little space at the top since the gumbo may expand as it freezes. You can store it in the fridge for about 3-4 days or in the freezer for up to 3 months. Just label your containers with the date so you know when you made it!

Reheating the Gumbo

When it’s time to enjoy those leftovers, you have a couple of great options for reheating. If you’re in a hurry, the microwave is your friend! Just pour a serving into a microwave-safe bowl, cover it loosely (to prevent splatters), and heat it in 1-minute increments, stirring in between until it’s nice and hot.

If you have a bit more time, I recommend reheating on the stovetop. Pour the gumbo into a pot and heat it over medium heat, stirring occasionally to ensure it warms evenly. This method helps maintain the gumbo’s texture and flavor, making it taste fresh and delicious!

For both methods, if the gumbo seems a little thick after being in the fridge, don’t hesitate to add a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen it up. Just stir it in as it heats up, and you’ll be good to go!

With these simple storage and reheating tips, you’ll have a delicious bowl of crock pot chicken and sausage gumbo ready to enjoy anytime. Happy eating!

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use other types of meat in this gumbo?
Absolutely! While chicken and sausage are classic choices, you can mix it up. Try adding shrimp, crawfish, or even turkey if you prefer. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary, especially for seafood; they usually require less time to cook!

Q2: What if I don’t have okra? Can I leave it out?
Yes, you can totally omit the okra if it’s not your thing or if you can’t find it. It does add a nice texture and flavor, but the gumbo will still be delicious without it. You could also consider adding other vegetables like green beans or sweet corn for a different twist!

Q3: How can I adjust the cooking time if I want to make this gumbo ahead of time?
If you want to prepare this gumbo in advance, you can definitely make it the day before and let it cool before storing it in the fridge. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat it on the stove or in the microwave as mentioned earlier. The flavors will be even better after sitting overnight!

Q4: Can I use frozen chicken or sausage for this recipe?
You can! Just remember that if you’re using frozen meat, it may take a little longer to cook through. If possible, thaw them beforehand for even cooking. You can either put them in the fridge overnight or run them under cold water to defrost more quickly.

Q5: Is it okay to double the recipe?
Definitely! This recipe scales up beautifully. Just make sure your crock pot is large enough to hold all the ingredients. If you have a smaller pot, you might need to cook the gumbo in batches. Doubling the recipe is great for feeding a crowd or for meal prepping!

Q6: How spicy is this gumbo?
The spice level really depends on how much Cajun seasoning you use! If you’re sensitive to heat, start with a little and taste as you go. You can always add more, but it’s tough to take heat away once it’s in there. Don’t forget, you can also serve hot sauce on the side for those who like an extra kick!