Savory Chicken Étouffée: Pure Cajun Comfort in Every Bite

This Chicken Étouffée recipe combines tender chicken, smoky sausage, and fresh vegetables in a creamy sauce.

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Prep Time 10

Cook Time 40

Total Time 50

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: Cajun

Calories: 450

Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients

For the Base

1 tablespoon Olive Oil Can substitute any cooking oil
1 pound Boneless Skinless Chicken Thigh Can substitute with chicken breast or legs
8 ounces Andouille Sausage Essential for smoky flavor
2 tablespoons Unsalted Butter Can substitute with more olive oil for dairy-free

For the Vegetables

1 medium Onion Can substitute with shallots
1 medium Green Bell Pepper Any color bell pepper can be used
2 stalks Celery Complements onion and bell pepper
2 cloves Garlic Fresh garlic preferred

For the Sauce

2 tablespoons Flour Use gluten-free flour for gluten-free option
2 tablespoons Tomato Paste Fresh diced tomatoes can be an alternative
2 cups Chicken Broth Homemade is best, vegetable broth works for vegetarian
2 tablespoons Cajun Seasoning Make your own using spices like paprika and cayenne
1 teaspoon Sea or Kosher Salt Adjust based on broth salt content

For Serving

4 cups Steamed White Rice Can swap with cauliflower rice for low-carb
to taste Hot Sauce Serve according to heat preference

Equipment

medium skillet

Method

Step‑by‑Step Instructions

Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a medium skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken and sausage, cooking for 5-7 minutes. Remove and set aside.
Lower heat to medium, add 2 tablespoons of olive oil and 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter. Melt and mix, gradually adding flour while whisking, for about 10 minutes until deep brown.
Add chopped onion, green bell pepper, and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes until translucent.
Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute. Stir in 2 tablespoons of tomato paste.
Pour in ½ cup of chicken broth, scraping the skillet to deglaze. Stir until the sauce thickens slightly.
Add remaining chicken broth, Cajun seasoning, and salt. Stir thoroughly and bring to a gentle simmer.
Return chicken and sausage to skillet. Simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally until sauce thickens.
Remove from heat and serve over white rice, adding hot sauce as desired.

Nutrition

Serving: 1plateCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 35gProtein: 25gFat: 22gSaturated Fat: 8gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 9gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 3gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 800IUVitamin C: 30mgCalcium: 50mgIron: 2.5mg

Notes

Perfect your roux by stirring constantly for deep color. Adjust seasoning wisely, especially with store-bought Cajun seasoning.

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