Chicken and Sausage Creole Soup

Creole cuisine is a vibrant, flavorful culinary tradition from Louisiana that combines French, Spanish, African, and Caribbean influences. This Chicken and Sausage Creole Soup is a perfect example of that heritage: a hearty, comforting one-pot meal filled with tender chicken, smoky Andouille sausage, aromatic vegetables, and a rich, flavorful broth. Enhanced with classic Creole seasonings and a touch of spice, this soup is a warming, satisfying dish that captures the spirit of New Orleans in every bite.

I love this recipe because it’s both hearty and healthy, with a deep, layered flavor that develops as it simmers. The combination of chicken and sausage gives a delightful contrast of textures and tastes—tender, juicy chicken alongside the smoky, slightly spicy sausage. The vegetables create a natural sweetness and depth, and the Creole seasoning ensures every spoonful is packed with robust, savory flavor.

Why I Love This Recipe

I adore this soup because it’s comforting, flavorful, and versatile. It’s one of those dishes where the aroma alone is enough to bring everyone to the kitchen. The balance of protein, vegetables, and seasoning makes it filling without being heavy. I also love that it’s easy to customize: you can adjust the spice, swap proteins, or add your favorite vegetables. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or entertaining guests.

Why It’s a Must-Try

• Authentic Creole Flavor: Experience the bold, savory taste of Louisiana at home.
• Hearty and Filling: Chicken and sausage create a satisfying protein-packed meal.
• Nutritious & Balanced: Loaded with vegetables and lean protein.
• Versatile: Enjoy it as a soup, stew, or even over rice for a Creole-inspired dinner.
• Easy to Make: A one-pot recipe with minimal cleanup and maximum flavor.

Recipe Information

• Preparation Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 40–45 minutes
• Total Time: 60–65 minutes
• Servings: 6–8
• Calories per Serving: ~350 kcal
• Course: Main Dish / Soup
• Cuisine: Creole / Southern / Cajun

Ingredients

Chicken and Sausage Creole Soup

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 pound (450g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 pound Andouille sausage, sliced into rounds
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 1 green bell pepper, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (14.5 oz / 410g) can diced tomatoes
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup water
• 1 teaspoon Creole seasoning (store-bought or homemade)
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 1/2 cup chopped green onions (for garnish)
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
• Optional: cooked rice, for serving

Quick Directions

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot; cook chicken until lightly browned.
2. Add sausage, onion, bell pepper, celery, and garlic; sauté until vegetables are softened.
3. Stir in diced tomatoes, chicken broth, water, and seasonings.
4. Bring to a boil, then simmer 25–30 minutes until chicken is cooked through.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning; add cayenne for extra heat if desired.
6. Serve hot, garnished with parsley and green onions, optionally over rice.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

Step 1: Prep Ingredients

• Dice onion, bell pepper, and celery. Mince garlic.
• Cut chicken into bite-sized pieces and slice sausage.

Step 2: Brown Chicken

• Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
• Add chicken and cook 5–6 minutes until lightly browned. Remove and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté Sausage and Vegetables

• Add sausage, onion, bell pepper, celery, and garlic to the pot.
• Sauté 5–7 minutes until vegetables are soft and fragrant.

Step 4: Add Liquids and Seasonings

• Stir in diced tomatoes, chicken broth, water, Creole seasoning, smoked paprika, thyme, salt, black pepper, and cayenne.
• Return chicken to the pot.

Step 5: Simmer

• Bring the soup to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and simmer 25–30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
• Ensure chicken is fully cooked and flavors have melded.

Step 6: Finish and Serve

• Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
• Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley and green onions.
• Optionally, serve over cooked rice for a heartier meal.

How to Serve

• Ladle soup into bowls with garnishes of green onions and parsley.
• Serve with cooked rice, crusty bread, or cornbread for a complete meal.
• Pair with a simple salad or roasted vegetables for extra nutrition.

Recipe Tips

• Creole Seasoning: Adjust according to your spice preference; you can make your own mix of paprika, cayenne, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, oregano, and black pepper.
• Sausage Options: Andouille gives an authentic smoky flavor, but smoked kielbasa or chorizo can work as well.
• Adjust Thickness: Add more broth or water for a thinner soup, or simmer longer for a thicker stew-like consistency.
• Leftovers: Soup flavors improve over time, making it ideal for meal prep.

Variations

1. Seafood Creole Soup: Add shrimp or crab during the last 5–10 minutes of cooking.
2. Spicy Creole Soup: Increase cayenne or add hot sauce for more heat.
3. Vegetable-Loaded: Include okra, zucchini, or bell pepper variations for extra nutrition.
4. Creamy Version: Stir in a splash of cream or coconut milk for a rich, creamy texture.
5. Rice-Free Version: Serve as a hearty soup without rice for a lower-carb option.

Freezing and Storage

• Storage: Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for 3–4 days.
• Freezing: Cool completely and freeze in airtight containers for up to 2–3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently.
• Rice Tip: Freeze soup without rice, then add freshly cooked rice when serving to maintain texture.

Special Equipment Needed

• Large pot or Dutch oven
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Cutting board and knife
• Measuring spoons and cups

Conclusion

This Chicken and Sausage Creole Soup is a hearty, flavorful, and comforting dish that brings the bold, aromatic flavors of Louisiana Creole cuisine into your kitchen. With tender chicken, smoky sausage, aromatic vegetables, and rich seasonings, it’s a complete one-pot meal perfect for family dinners, weeknight meals, or entertaining guests. Easy to prepare, versatile, and deeply satisfying, this soup is a must-try for anyone who loves flavorful, comforting, and authentically inspired Southern cooking.