Chicken and Sausage Jambalaya Soup: A Comforting Dish

Chicken and sausage jambalaya soup is a comforting and flavorful dish that warms the soul. With a blend of chicken, sausage, rice, and spices, this soup offers a delightful taste experience. It’s perfect for chilly days or whenever a hearty meal is needed.

Plus, it’s super easy to prepare, making it a great main course for dinner. This recipe invites creativity, allowing cooks to add their favorite ingredients. For those looking to whip up a bowl of warmth, keep reading to discover just how simple and satisfying this soup can be.

Key Takeaway

• Chicken and sausage jambalaya soup is a filling and cozy meal.
• The soup is easy to make and uses simple ingredients.
• It can be customized to suit different tastes and dietary needs.

Ingredients

Credits: Whisk Affair

To prepare chicken and sausage jambalaya soup, gather these essential ingredients:

• Proteins:
  • 1 pound smoked andouille sausage (diced or sliced)
  • 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cubed)
• Vegetables:
  • 1 medium onion (diced)
  • 1 bell pepper (any color, diced)
  • 1 stalk celery (diced)
  • 2 cloves garlic (minced)
  • Optional: sliced okra (fresh or frozen)
• Liquids:
  • 6 cups chicken broth
  • 14 ounces fire-roasted diced tomatoes
• Grains:
  • ½ cup white rice (such as long-grain rice)
• Seasonings:
  • 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning (divided)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Optional: 1 bay leaf for extra flavor
• Fats:
  • Olive oil for sautéing

Having these ingredients on hand makes cooking this delicious soup a breeze. The proteins deliver rich flavor, while the vegetables contribute texture and nutrients. The rice adds heartiness, and the seasonings bring that distinctive kick that makes jambalaya special. (1)

Preparation Steps

Making chicken and sausage jambalaya soup is easy. Just follow these steps to create a delightful bowl of warmth.

1. Prepare Ingredients: Start by cutting the sausage and chicken into small pieces. Dice the onion, bell pepper, and celery, and mince the garlic. Having everything ready at the start helps streamline the cooking process.
2. Cook Sausage: Heat one tablespoon of olive oil in a large soup pot over medium-high heat. Add the diced sausage and sauté until it turns brown, which should take about 4-5 minutes. Once done, remove the sausage from the pot and set it aside.
3. Cook Chicken: Season the cubed chicken with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. If needed, add another tablespoon of olive oil to the pot. Cook the chicken until browned on all sides, about 3-4 minutes. Remove and set aside.
4. Sauté Vegetables: Toss the onion, bell pepper, celery, and garlic into the pot. Sauté until everything becomes soft, taking around 3-4 minutes. This step builds the base flavor for the soup.
5. Combine Ingredients: Return the cooked sausage and chicken to the pot. Pour in the chicken broth to deglaze the pan, scraping up any tasty browned bits from the bottom. Then, add the fire-roasted diced tomatoes.
6. Add Rice and Okra: Bring the mixture to a boil before adding the rice and okra, if using. Stir in a bay leaf for extra flavor. Reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Let it simmer until the rice is tender, about 20 minutes.
7. Final Seasoning: Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning as needed. More salt, pepper, or Cajun seasoning can be added according to preference. Remember to remove the bay leaf before serving.
8. Serve: Garnish with freshly chopped green onions for a pop of color and flavor.

Following these steps ensures a delicious soup that brings warmth and comfort. Each stage contributes to building rich flavors, making the dish a true delight for any meal. (2)

Variations

Chicken and sausage jambalaya soup offers plenty of room to get creative. Here are some fun variations to consider:

• Seafood Twist: For a delightful change, replace the chicken with shrimp or scallops. This adds a fresh flavor and brings a seafood flair to the dish. It’s a great way to mix things up!
• Different Grains: Instead of using white rice, brown rice or quinoa can be a healthier choice. These options not only boost the nutritional value but also add extra fiber, making the soup heartier.
• Milder Flavor: For those who prefer a gentler taste, it helps to reduce the Cajun seasoning. Another nice option is to use kielbasa instead of spicy sausage. This keeps the soup delicious while making it less fiery.

These variations ensure that everyone can enjoy their bowl of jambalaya soup. Swapping ingredients allows for a fresh twist while maintaining the warm and comforting essence of the original recipe.

Nutritional Benefits

Chicken and sausage jambalaya soup is delicious and packed with health benefits. Here’s why this soup is a nutritious choice:

• Protein-Rich: The combination of chicken and sausage offers a strong source of protein. Protein plays a vital role in building and repairing muscles, making it important for overall health.
• Vegetable Content: This soup features the “holy trinity” of Cajun cooking—onion, bell pepper, and celery. These vegetables are rich in vitamins A and C, along with essential minerals. They contribute to the soup’s nutrition, helping support immune health and overall well-being.
• Fiber Source: Adding ingredients like okra provides dietary fiber, which is important for good digestion. Fiber helps keep the digestive system running smoothly and helps people feel full longer.

Additionally, this soup shines for meal prep. It can be easily made in large batches and stored in the freezer. That means a warm, hearty meal is just a quick reheat away, ready whenever it’s needed.

Conclusion

Chicken and sausage jambalaya soup is a hearty and flavorful dish that’s simple to prepare. Its flexibility allows for customization to suit various tastes, making it enjoyable for everyone. Perfect for sharing with family and friends, this soup truly wraps you in comfort on chilly days.

Whether someone is cooking it or savoring every bite, this dish promises warmth and satisfaction. Enjoy the process of making and sharing this delightful soup!

FAQ

What kind of sausage is best for this soup?

Andouille sausage is a popular choice for jambalaya, but you can use other smoked sausages as well.

Can I use boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs?

Yes, both boneless, skinless chicken breasts and thighs work well in this recipe.

How much chicken should I add?

The amount of chicken depends on your preference and the size of your pot. Add chicken until you have enough for a hearty soup.

When should I add the rice?

Add the rice about 20 minutes before the soup is finished cooking to allow it to fully cook.

Should I use brown rice or white rice?

Either brown rice or grain rice can be used. Brown rice will take a bit longer to cook.

What kind of tomatoes should I use?

Canned tomatoes, diced tomatoes, or crushed tomatoes will all work. Fire-roasted tomatoes add a smoky flavor.

What spices should I include?

Cajun seasoning is essential for the flavor of this jambalaya soup. You’ll also likely want to add black pepper, cayenne pepper, and bay leaves. Don’t forget to add in garlic! Chili flakes can also be added for extra heat.

What should I do with the green bell pepper?

Finely chop the green bell pepper before adding it to the pot.

How should I cook the soup?

You can cook it on the stovetop in a Dutch oven or a pot, or you can use a crock pot or electric pressure cooker. You can also cover and cook on low.

Can I make this soup gluten-free?

Yes, as long as you use gluten-free chicken broth and ensure your other ingredients are gluten-free, this soup can be gluten-free.

How should I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Can I use cooked chicken in this recipe?

Yes, you can use fully cooked chicken to save time.

What type of rice is best?

While many types work, white rice or brown rice are common choices.

Where should I add the garlic?

Add in garlic early in the cooking process to allow its flavor to develop.

What is the best way to brown the chicken?

While not essential, you can brown the chicken in extra virgin olive oil in the bottom of the pot before adding other ingredients.

References:

1. https://www.allrecipes.com/chicken-and-sausage-jambalaya-recipe-8726289
2. https://www.southernliving.com/recipes/chicken-and-sausage-jambalaya-recipe

Related Articles:

• https://milkwoodrestaurant.com/chicken-sausage-jambalaya-instant-pot/
• https://milkwoodrestaurant.com/chicken-sausage-jambalaya-pasta-2/
• https://milkwoodrestaurant.com/chicken-sausage-jambalaya-recipe-dutch-oven-2/

Mary R. Q.

See AlsoChicken Sausage Kale Quinoa: A Nutritious and Easy Meal

I’m Mary R. Q. , a seasoned professional chef dedicated to elevating home cooking experiences. Through my expertise in the culinary arts, I provide practical cooking tips and insightful reviews of kitchen utensils on my blog, milkwoodrestaurant.com. As a passionate advocate for transforming everyday meals into extraordinary culinary adventures, I aim to empower home cooks with the knowledge and tools they need to create delicious and memorable dishes. I’m also an author of the book “1,001 Kitchen Tips & Tricks: Helpful Hints for Cooking, Baking, and Cleaning (1,001 Tips & Tricks)” which is sold on Amazon. Join me on a flavorful journey as we explore the art of cooking and the essential tools that make it a joy.