Name: Chicken and Andouille Sausage Stew Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 4
Cuisine: Cajun
Ingredients: 2 tsp oil; 1 cup onion; ½ cup green bell pepper; ¼ cup celery; 14 oz chicken thighs; 12 oz chicken drumsticks; salt and fresh pepper; 1 tbsp all-purpose flour; 2 cups water; 6 oz andouille chicken; 1 bay leaf; ¼ cup scallion

This hearty chicken and andouille sausage stew brings together the rich flavors of tender chicken, spicy sausage, and aromatic vegetables. Perfect for a cozy night in, the blend of spices and slow simmering process ensures a deliciously warming meal that pairs wonderfully with rice or quinoa.

Photos of Chicken and Andouille Sausage Stew Recipe

The key ingredients in this recipe include andouille chicken, which has a distinctive smoky and spicy flavor, and bay leaf, a classic herb that adds depth to the stew. These items might not be found in every home pantry, so be sure to pick them up at the supermarket.

Ingredients Needed for Chicken and Andouille Sausage Stew

oil: Used for sautéing the vegetables and browning the chicken.

onion: Adds a sweet and savory base flavor.

green bell pepper: Provides a fresh, slightly bitter note.

celery: Adds a hint of earthiness and crunch.

chicken thighs: Tender and flavorful dark meat.

chicken drumsticks: Another source of juicy and flavorful dark meat.

salt: Enhances overall flavor.

fresh pepper: Adds a bit of spice and complexity.

all-purpose flour: Helps to thicken the stew.

water: Used as the base liquid for the stew.

andouille chicken: Spicy sausage that adds smoky depth and heat.

bay leaf: Adds an aromatic, slightly bitter taste that balances the dish.

scallion: Provides a fresh, mild onion flavor as a garnish.

One reader, Art Amaro says:

This chicken and andouille sausage stew is a flavorful delight! The blend of spices and tender meat creates a comforting, hearty dish. Perfect for a cozy dinner, it’s easy to make and absolutely delicious. Highly recommend serving it with rice for a complete meal.

Art Amaro

Techniques Required

How to brown chicken: Heat the skillet and cook the chicken on each side until it turns golden brown. How to simmer: Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and cook gently to allow flavors to meld. How to adjust seasoning: Taste the dish and add salt and pepper as needed to enhance the flavor.

How To Make Chicken and Andouille Sausage Stew

This mix of chicken and Andouille sausage make this sausage stew filling, savory, and slightly spicy. Serve this with rice to appreciate the taste.

Preparation: 10 minutes

Cooking: 40 minutes

Total: 50 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

2tspoil
1cuponion,chopped
½cupgreen bell pepper,chopped
¼cupcelery,chopped
14ozchicken thighs,lean, skinless, with bone
12ozchicken drumsticks,lean, skinless, with bone
salt and fresh pepper,to taste
1tbspall-purpose flour,or rice flour for gluten-free
2cupswater
6ozandouille chicken,Applegate, 2 links, or turkey sausage
1bay leaf
¼cupscallion,chopped

Instructions

Heat a large deep non-stick skillet over medium heat.
When hot, add the oil, onions, peppers and celery.
Cook 3 to 4 minutes, stirring.
Push the vegetables to the edges of the skillet and add the chicken, season with salt and pepper.
Brown 2 to 3 minutes on each side, then sprinkle the flour over the chicken and vegetables.
Add the water, sausage and bay leaf, adjust salt and pepper to taste, then cover and reduce heat to low.
Simmer 30 to 35 minutes, remove bay leaf and top with scallions.
Serve with rice or quinoa if desired.

Nutrition

Calories: 501.01kcal
Fat: 33.13g
Saturated Fat: 8.63g
Trans Fat: 0.17g
Monounsaturated Fat: 14.15g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 7.17g
Carbohydrates: 8.00g
Fiber: 1.67g
Sugar: 2.39g
Protein: 40.78g
Cholesterol: 207.38mg
Sodium: 981.58mg
Calcium: 47.68mg
Potassium: 606.72mg
Iron: 2.20mg
Vitamin A: 60.83µg
Vitamin C: 20.06mg

Technique Tip for This Stew

When browning the chicken, make sure not to overcrowd the skillet. Overcrowding can cause the chicken to steam rather than brown, which will affect the flavor and texture of your stew. If necessary, brown the chicken in batches to ensure each piece gets a nice, golden crust.

How To Save Time on Making This Stew

Pre-chop vegetables: Chop the onion, green bell pepper, and celery in advance and store them in airtight containers.

Use boneless chicken: Opt for boneless chicken thighs to reduce cooking time and make the dish easier to eat.

Pre-cook sausage: Slice and pre-cook the andouille sausage to cut down on simmering time.

Batch cook: Double the recipe and freeze half for a quick meal later.

Instant pot option: Use an Instant Pot to significantly reduce cooking time while maintaining flavor.

Pre-measure ingredients: Measure out all ingredients before starting to streamline the cooking process.

Substitute Ingredients For Chicken and Andouille Sausage Stew Recipe

oil - Substitute with butter: Butter adds a rich flavor and can be used for sautéing vegetables just like oil.
onion - Substitute with shallots: Shallots have a milder taste and can provide a subtle sweetness similar to onions.
green bell pepper - Substitute with red bell pepper: Red bell peppers are sweeter and can add a different color and flavor profile to the stew.
celery - Substitute with fennel: Fennel has a similar crunchy texture and adds a slight anise flavor that complements the stew.
chicken thighs - Substitute with chicken breast: Chicken breast is leaner and can be used if you prefer a lower-fat option.
chicken drumsticks - Substitute with chicken wings: Chicken wings have a similar bone structure and can add a different texture to the stew.
salt - Substitute with soy sauce: Soy sauce can add a savory umami flavor along with the necessary saltiness.
fresh pepper - Substitute with cayenne pepper: Cayenne pepper adds a bit of heat and can enhance the overall flavor of the stew.
all-purpose flour - Substitute with cornstarch: Cornstarch is a great thickening agent and can be used to achieve a similar consistency.
water - Substitute with chicken broth: Chicken broth adds more depth of flavor compared to plain water.
andouille chicken - Substitute with chorizo: Chorizo has a similar spicy and smoky flavor profile that can replace andouille sausage.
bay leaf - Substitute with thyme: Thyme can provide a similar earthy flavor to the stew.
scallion - Substitute with leek: Leeks have a mild onion flavor and can be used as a substitute for scallions.

Best Way To Present This Stew

Use a deep, wide-rimmed bowl: This allows the stew to be the star of the presentation, with enough space to showcase the chicken and andouille sausage.
Layer the ingredients: Start by placing the chicken thighs and drumsticks at the bottom, followed by the andouille sausage. This creates a visually appealing depth.
Garnish with scallions: Finely chop the scallions and sprinkle them generously over the top. This adds a pop of color and a fresh, vibrant taste.
Add a side of rice or quinoa: Serve a small mound of rice or quinoa on the side, using a ring mold for a neat and professional look.
Drizzle with sauce: Use a spoon to drizzle some of the stew broth around the edge of the bowl, enhancing the visual appeal and ensuring every bite is flavorful.
Use microgreens for a touch of elegance: Add a small handful of microgreens on top of the stew for a sophisticated finish.
Serve with a crusty bread: Place a slice of crusty bread on the side of the bowl, slightly leaning against the rim, to add texture and a rustic touch.
Finish with a sprinkle of sea salt: Just before serving, sprinkle a pinch of sea salt over the dish to enhance the flavors and add a subtle crunch.

Best Tools for This Recipe

large deep non-stick skillet: This is essential for cooking the stew, allowing for even heat distribution and preventing the ingredients from sticking.
spatula: Useful for stirring the vegetables and chicken, ensuring they cook evenly.
measuring spoons: Necessary for accurately measuring the oil, salt, pepper, and flour.
measuring cups: Used to measure the water and vegetables accurately.
chef's knife: Important for chopping the onions, bell pepper, celery, and scallions.
cutting board: Provides a safe surface for chopping the vegetables and chicken.
tongs: Handy for turning the chicken pieces to ensure they brown evenly on all sides.
lid: Needed to cover the skillet while the stew simmers, helping to retain moisture and flavors.
serving spoon: Useful for serving the stew once it's ready.
rice cooker or pot: Optional, but useful if you decide to serve the stew with rice or quinoa.

How To Store / Freeze This Stew

Allow the chicken and andouille sausage stew to cool completely before storing. This helps prevent condensation, which can lead to soggy textures and spoilage.
Transfer the cooled stew into airtight containers. For optimal freshness, use containers that are the right size for your portions to minimize air exposure.
Label the containers with the date of preparation. This ensures you can keep track of how long the stew has been stored and consume it within a safe timeframe.
Store the containers in the refrigerator if you plan to consume the stew within 3-4 days. The cold temperature will help maintain the flavors and textures of the chicken and vegetables.
For longer storage, place the containers in the freezer. The stew can be frozen for up to 3 months without significant loss of quality. Ensure the containers are freezer-safe to prevent cracking or freezer burn.
When ready to reheat, thaw the stew in the refrigerator overnight if frozen. This gradual thawing helps maintain the integrity of the meat and vegetables.
Reheat the stew on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating. Add a splash of water or broth if the stew appears too thick.
Alternatively, you can reheat individual portions in the microwave. Use a microwave-safe container, cover loosely, and heat in 1-2 minute intervals, stirring in between, until the stew is hot throughout.
Garnish with fresh scallions or a sprinkle of fresh herbs before serving to revive the flavors and add a touch of freshness.
Serve the reheated stew with a side of rice or quinoa for a complete and satisfying meal.

How To Reheat Leftovers

To reheat your leftover chicken and andouille sausage stew, start by transferring the stew from the refrigerator to a microwave-safe container or a saucepan.
If using a microwave, cover the container with a microwave-safe lid or a damp paper towel to retain moisture. Heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even heating. Continue heating in 1-minute intervals until the stew is hot throughout.
For stovetop reheating, place the stew in a saucepan over medium-low heat. Add a splash of water or chicken broth to prevent the stew from drying out. Stir occasionally, heating until the stew is warmed through, which should take about 5-10 minutes.
If you prefer using an oven, preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the stew to an oven-safe dish and cover it with aluminum foil to keep the moisture in. Heat for about 20-25 minutes, or until the stew is thoroughly heated.
To enhance the flavors, consider adding a fresh sprinkle of scallions or a dash of salt and pepper before serving.
Serve the reheated stew with a side of rice or quinoa to complete your meal.

Is This Stew Economical for Home Cooking?

This chicken and andouille sausage stew recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. Utilizing affordable ingredients like chicken thighs, onions, and celery, it provides a hearty meal without breaking the bank. The use of andouille sausage adds a rich flavor, making it a satisfying dish. Overall Verdict: 8/10. Approximate cost for a household of 4 people: $15-$20 USD.

Healthy or Unhealthy?

This chicken and andouille sausage stew recipe strikes a balance between flavor and nutrition but leans slightly towards the indulgent side. The use of chicken thighs and drumsticks provides a good source of protein, but they also contribute to higher fat content. Andouille sausage, while flavorful, is typically high in sodium and saturated fats. The inclusion of vegetables like onions, bell peppers, and celery adds fiber and essential vitamins, but the overall dish could benefit from more vegetables to enhance its nutritional profile.

The use of all-purpose flour as a thickening agent is minimal, but it does add some unnecessary refined carbs. The recipe calls for 2 cups of water, which helps keep the dish light, but the sodium content from the sausage and added salt could be concerning for those watching their sodium intake.

Replace chicken thighs and drumsticks with skinless chicken breast to reduce fat content.
Use a low-sodium chicken broth instead of water for added flavor without the extra sodium.
Substitute the andouille sausage with a lower-fat, lower-sodium chicken sausage or a plant-based sausage alternative.
Increase the amount of vegetables by adding carrots, zucchini, or spinach to boost fiber and nutrient content.
Use whole wheat flour or a gluten-free thickener like cornstarch to make it more health-conscious.

Editor's Thoughts on This Recipe

This chicken and andouille sausage stew is a delightful blend of flavors and textures. The combination of chicken thighs and drumsticks ensures a rich, hearty base, while the andouille sausage adds a smoky depth. The holy trinity of onions, bell peppers, and celery provides a classic foundation, and the bay leaf infuses a subtle aromatic note. The use of flour to thicken the stew is a smart touch, creating a satisfying consistency. Topping with scallions adds a fresh, vibrant finish. Serving with rice or quinoa makes it a complete, comforting meal. Overall, it's a well-balanced and flavorful dish.

Enhance Your Chicken and Andouille Sausage Stew Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze: Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze: Imagine the crispy, caramelized edges of Brussels sprouts mingling with the tangy sweetness of a balsamic glaze. This side dish adds a delightful crunch and a burst of flavor that complements the hearty stew perfectly.

Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy, buttery potatoes infused with the aromatic essence of garlic. These mashed potatoes provide a comforting and rich base that soaks up the savory juices of the stew, creating a harmonious blend of flavors.

Citrus Avocado Salad: Citrus Avocado Salad: A refreshing medley of avocado, citrus fruits, and crisp greens. This vibrant salad offers a zesty contrast to the warm, hearty stew, adding a burst of freshness and a touch of elegance to your meal.

Cheddar Jalapeño Cornbread: Cheddar Jalapeño Cornbread: Imagine the golden crust and moist interior of cornbread enhanced with sharp cheddar cheese and a hint of spicy jalapeño. This side dish brings a delightful kick and a cheesy goodness that pairs wonderfully with the stew.

Honey-Glazed Carrots: Honey-Glazed Carrots: Tender carrots glazed with a sweet and sticky honey coating. These carrots add a touch of sweetness and a vibrant color to your plate, balancing the savory notes of the stew with their natural sweetness.

Other Alternative Recipes Similar to This Stew

Shrimp and Sausage Gumbo: Dive into the rich and flavorful world of Cajun cuisine with this hearty gumbo. Combining succulent shrimp and spicy sausage with a medley of vegetables, this dish is perfect for a cozy night in. Serve it over a bed of fluffy rice to soak up all the delicious flavors.

Beef and Vegetable Stew: Warm up with a comforting bowl of beef stew. Tender chunks of beef simmered with an array of root vegetables like carrots, potatoes, and parsnips. This hearty dish is perfect for a chilly evening and pairs wonderfully with a slice of crusty bread.

Spicy Pork and Bean Chili: Turn up the heat with this spicy chili. Featuring juicy pork and hearty beans, this dish is packed with bold flavors. Add a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of cheese on top for the ultimate comfort food experience.

Vegetable and Lentil Soup: For a lighter yet satisfying option, try this vegetable and lentil soup. Packed with nutritious lentils and a variety of seasonal vegetables, this soup is both hearty and healthy. Serve with a side of whole grain bread for a complete meal.

Seafood Paella: Transport yourself to the sunny shores of Spain with this vibrant seafood paella. A delightful mix of shrimp, mussels, and calamari cooked with saffron-infused rice and colorful bell peppers. This dish is a feast for both the eyes and the palate.

Suggested Appetizers and Desserts for This Stew

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Elevate your dining experience with these Stuffed Mushrooms. Imagine plump, juicy mushrooms filled with a savory mixture of breadcrumbs, garlic, and Parmesan cheese. The earthy flavor of the mushrooms pairs beautifully with the rich, cheesy filling, creating a delightful bite-sized treat. Perfectly roasted until golden brown, these mushrooms offer a satisfying crunch on the outside while remaining tender and flavorful on the inside. Serve them warm to enjoy the full spectrum of their aromatic and umami-rich profile.

Shrimp Cocktail: Add a touch of elegance to your meal with a classic Shrimp Cocktail. Succulent, chilled shrimp are paired with a zesty cocktail sauce that combines ketchup, horseradish, and a hint of lemon juice. The shrimp are cooked to perfection, tender yet firm, and the sauce provides a tangy, spicy kick that complements the natural sweetness of the seafood. Arrange the shrimp around a bowl of the sauce for a visually appealing presentation that invites your guests to dive in and enjoy.

Desserts:

Chocolate Lava Cake: Imagine a warm, molten chocolate center oozing out as you cut into this decadent treat. The outer layer is a perfectly baked, slightly crisp chocolate cake that contrasts beautifully with the gooey interior. Serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream and a drizzle of raspberry sauce for a dessert that will leave your guests in awe. The combination of warm and cold, sweet and tart, creates a symphony of flavors and textures that is simply irresistible.

Lemon Meringue Pie: Picture a buttery, flaky crust filled with a tangy lemon curd that strikes the perfect balance between sweet and tart. Topped with a cloud of golden-brown meringue, this dessert is as visually stunning as it is delicious. The meringue is light and airy, providing a delightful contrast to the rich, zesty filling. Serve it chilled for a refreshing end to your meal, and watch as your guests savor each bite of this classic yet sophisticated treat.

Why trust this Chicken and Andouille Sausage Stew Recipe:

This chicken and andouille sausage stew recipe is a flavorful and hearty dish perfect for any occasion. The combination of chicken thighs and drumsticks ensures tender, juicy meat, while the andouille sausage adds a smoky, spicy kick. Fresh onions, bell peppers, and celery create a robust base, and the bay leaf infuses the stew with aromatic depth. This recipe has been tested and refined to guarantee a delicious, satisfying meal every time. Serve it with rice or quinoa for a complete, comforting experience.

Share your thoughts on the Chicken and Andouille Sausage Stew recipe in the Recipe Sharing forum and let us know if you have any tips or variations to suggest.

FAQ:

How can I make this stew spicier?

If you want to kick up the heat, you can add some cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes when you season the chicken. You could also use a spicier variety of andouille sausage.

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs and drumsticks?

Yes, you can substitute chicken breasts if you prefer. Just keep in mind that breasts can dry out more easily, so you might want to adjust the cooking time slightly to avoid overcooking.

What can I use instead of andouille sausage?

If you can't find andouille sausage, you can use any smoked sausage or even chorizo for a different flavor profile. Just make sure it's a type of sausage that holds up well in stews.

Can I make this stew ahead of time?

Absolutely! This stew actually tastes even better the next day as the flavors have more time to meld together. Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge and reheat it gently on the stove.

What sides go well with this stew?

This stew pairs wonderfully with rice or quinoa, as mentioned. You could also serve it with crusty bread to soak up the delicious broth, or even a simple green salad for a lighter side.