Crockpot Chicken and Sausage Gumbo is a slow-cooked Southern classic that brings the bold, soulful flavors of Louisiana straight to your kitchen with minimal effort. This hearty stew features tender chicken, smoky andouille sausage, the “holy trinity” of Cajun cooking (onion, bell pepper, and celery), and a deeply flavorful roux-based broth seasoned with warm spices. By using a crockpot, you get all the richness of traditional gumbo while letting time do the hard work.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it captures the essence of authentic gumbo without standing over the stove for hours. The slow cooker gently melds the flavors, resulting in tender chicken, perfectly spiced broth, and sausage that infuses smokiness throughout the dish. It’s comforting, filling, and ideal for make-ahead meals.

Why This Is a Must-Try Dish

• Classic Cajun flavors made easy in a crockpot
• Hearty, comforting, and deeply flavorful
• Perfect for meal prep and leftovers
• Feeds a crowd with minimal hands-on time
• Tastes even better the next day

Recipe Overview

• Preparation Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 6–8 hours (low) or 4 hours (high)
• Total Time: Up to 8 hours 20 minutes
• Servings: 6–8
• Calories: ~430 calories per serving
• Course: Main Course
• Cuisine: Cajun / Creole (Louisiana)

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• 1½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or breasts)
• 12 oz andouille sausage, sliced
• 1 cup onion, chopped
• 1 cup green bell pepper, chopped
• ¾ cup celery, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes (optional, Creole-style)

Roux & Seasoning

• ¼ cup vegetable oil or butter
• ¼ cup all-purpose flour
• 1½ teaspoons Cajun seasoning
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon dried thyme
• ½ teaspoon dried oregano
• ¼–½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (to taste)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

To Finish

• 1 cup frozen okra, sliced
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• 2 green onions, sliced

For Serving

• Cooked white rice

Cooking Directions

1. In a skillet, heat oil over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook, stirring constantly, until deep brown (10–15 minutes).
2. Transfer roux to the crockpot.
3. Add onion, bell pepper, celery, garlic, chicken, sausage, broth, tomatoes, and seasonings. Stir well.
4. Cover and cook on LOW for 6–8 hours or HIGH for 4 hours.
5. About 30 minutes before serving, stir in okra.
6. Remove chicken, shred, and return to the pot.
7. Adjust seasoning and garnish with parsley and green onions.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

1. Make the roux: Cook oil and flour until dark brown and nutty.
2. Prepare ingredients: Chop vegetables and slice sausage.
3. Assemble in crockpot: Add all ingredients except okra and garnishes.
4. Slow cook: Let flavors develop over several hours.
5. Finish: Add okra, shred chicken, and adjust seasoning.

How to Serve

• Serve hot over steamed white rice
• Add hot sauce for extra heat
• Pair with crusty bread or cornbread
• Garnish with green onions and parsley

Recipe Tips

• Use chicken thighs for extra tenderness
• Stir roux constantly to prevent burning
• Adjust spice level gradually
• Let gumbo rest 10 minutes before serving
• Skim excess fat if needed

Variations

• Seafood Gumbo: Add shrimp in the last 30 minutes
• No-Tomato Cajun Style: Omit diced tomatoes
• Extra Smoky: Use smoked sausage or turkey sausage
• Low-Carb: Serve without rice
• Extra Veggies: Add mushrooms or zucchini

Freezing and Storage

• Refrigerator: Store in airtight containers for up to 4 days
• Freezer: Freeze for up to 3 months
• Reheating: Thaw overnight and reheat gently on stovetop or microwave

Special Equipment Needed

• Slow cooker (crockpot)
• Skillet for roux
• Wooden spoon or whisk
• Cutting board and knife

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I make the roux in advance?
Yes, roux can be made ahead and refrigerated for up to a week.

Q: Is okra necessary?
Traditional gumbo uses okra or filé powder as a thickener, but it’s optional.

Q: Can I use raw chicken directly?
Yes, the slow cooker will fully cook it.

Q: Can I make this spicy?
Absolutely—add more cayenne or hot sauce.

Conclusion

Crockpot Chicken and Sausage Gumbo is the ultimate comfort dish—rich, warming, and packed with bold Cajun flavors. With the ease of a slow cooker and the depth of traditional gumbo, this recipe delivers a satisfying meal that’s perfect for gatherings or cozy nights at home. One bowl is never enough, and leftovers only get better with time.