Name: Slow Cooker Chicken and Sausage Creole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 240 min
Total time: 255 min
Ingredients: 1.5 pounds Boneless, skinless chicken thighs (trimmed of fat); 9 ounces Chicken Andouille sausage (sliced into rounds); 1 cup Chopped onions; 0.5 cup Chopped carrots; 1 Green bell pepper (seeded and chopped); 1 Red bell pepper (seeded and chopped); 3 cloves Garlic (minced); 1 cup Low sodium chicken broth; 1 14.5-ounce can Diced tomatoes; 3 ounces Tomato paste (½ a 6-ounce can); 0.5 cup Tomato sauce; 1.75 teaspoons Creole seasoning; 1 dash Cayenne pepper; 3 Scallions (chopped (for garnish)); 3 cups Cooked brown rice (for serving (optional))

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Every time I make Slow Cooker Chicken and Sausage Creole, I am transported to a cozy kitchen filled with aromatic spices and the sound of simmering ingredients. This dish has a way of bringing people together, creating an atmosphere where laughter and good food intertwine effortlessly. It’s a recipe that embodies comfort, allowing me to spend quality time with friends and family while it does its magic in the slow cooker. I still remember the first time I tried it, and how the rich flavors exploded in my mouth, making me wonder why I hadn’t made it sooner. It quickly became a favorite, not just for its delightful taste but for the ease with which it comes together. The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity and the way each ingredient complements the others, making sure every bite is a celebration of flavor.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
4 hr 15 mins

Prep Time:
15 mins

Cook Time:
240 mins

Difficulty:
Hard

Calories:
450 kcal

Protein:
30 g

Diet:
Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP

Fat:
15 g

Tools Used:
Chef’s Knife, Cutting Board, Slow Cooker

What Makes This Slow Cooker Chicken and Sausage Creole Special

It’s All About Flavor

What I love most about Slow Cooker Chicken and Sausage Creole is the depth of flavor it achieves through slow cooking. The combination of chicken and sausage creates a heartiness that’s hard to resist. As it cooks, the spices meld together beautifully, resulting in a warm, inviting aroma that fills the kitchen.

Easy Preparation

Another reason I adore this dish is how easy it is to prepare. You simply toss the ingredients into the slow cooker and let it do its thing. There’s something liberating about knowing a delicious meal is on its way without spending hours in the kitchen. It’s perfect for busy days when you want a home-cooked meal without the fuss.

Perfect for Sharing

This recipe is a crowd-pleaser. I often find myself making it for gatherings and parties. People gravitate towards it, filling their bowls with the vibrant Creole mixture that’s as colorful as it is flavorful. The presentation is lovely, and it makes for a beautiful centerpiece on any table.

Versatile and Customizable

I also appreciate the versatility of this dish. You can easily adjust the ingredients to suit your taste. Want it spicier? Add more cayenne pepper! Prefer a different vegetable? Toss in what you have on hand. This adaptability makes it a staple in my household.

A Comforting, Hearty Meal

Lastly, there’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of Slow Cooker Chicken and Sausage Creole on a chilly winter evening. It’s comforting, filling, and truly embodies the spirit of home cooking. Each bite warms you from the inside out, making it an essential recipe to have in your repertoire.

Recipe Ingredients for Slow Cooker Chicken and Sausage Creole

This dish is all about harmony between its ingredients. The star players, chicken and sausage, work hand-in-hand to create a rich, flavorful base that’s complemented by the sweetness of onions and bell peppers. The broth and tomatoes provide moisture and acidity, while Creole seasoning adds a kick that really ties it all together. Each ingredient plays a vital role in crafting a delicious meal that’s sure to satisfy.

1 ½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs, trimmed of fat – The perfect choice for slow cooking, as it becomes tender and juicy.
9 ounces chicken Andouille sausage, sliced into rounds – This adds a smoky flavor and complements the chicken beautifully.
1 cup chopped onions – Brings sweetness and depth to the dish, enhancing the overall flavor.
½ cup chopped carrots – Adds a hint of sweetness and color to the mix.
1 green bell pepper, seeded and chopped – Provides freshness and a slight crunch.
1 red bell pepper, seeded and chopped – Contributes sweetness and vibrant color.
3 cloves garlic, minced – Infuses the dish with aromatic flavor.
1 cup low sodium chicken broth – Serves as the base for the dish, ensuring it remains moist.
1 14.5-ounce can diced tomatoes – Adds acidity and balances flavors.
3 ounces ½ a 6-ounce can tomato paste – Thickens the dish and deepens the tomato flavor.
½ cup tomato sauce – Enhances moisture and flavor in the dish.
1 ¾ teaspoons Creole seasoning – Adds a unique blend of spices that defines this dish.
Dash of cayenne pepper – For those who enjoy a little heat!
3 scallions, chopped (for garnish) – Adds a fresh, crisp finish when serving.
3 cups cooked brown rice, for serving (optional) – A hearty base for this flavorful dish.

Instructions for Slow Cooker Chicken and Sausage Creole

Cooking Slow Cooker Chicken and Sausage Creole is a breeze, allowing you to enjoy the process without the stress. Let’s dive into these simple steps that will guide you through creating this delicious meal. You’ll need your slow cooker handy!

Start by placing all the ingredients into the slow cooker. Ensure that you have your chicken, sausage, and all the chopped vegetables ready to go. The layering of flavors begins here, so take a moment to appreciate their vibrant colors.
Cover the slow cooker with its lid. Set it to cook on low for six to eight hours or on high for three to four hours. As it cooks, the aromas will fill your kitchen, making it hard to resist peeking in too often.
Once the cooking time is up, carefully remove the lid. The chicken should be tender and shred easily. Use two forks to shred the meat right in the slow cooker, allowing it to mix with the sauce.
Give everything a good stir to combine the shredded chicken with the flavorful broth. You may need to taste it at this stage and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Add a little more Creole seasoning or a dash of cayenne pepper if you like it spicy!
Evenly distribute the Creole mixture among six bowls. You can serve it alone or over a bed of brown rice for a heartier meal. Top each bowl with chopped scallions for a fresh finish.

Things Worth Knowing

Slow cooking allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making the dish more flavorful.
Feel free to add different vegetables based on what you have in your kitchen.
For a thicker sauce, consider adding more tomato paste or reducing some of the broth.
This dish can be served with cornbread or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Helpful Hints

Here are some tips to ensure your Slow Cooker Chicken and Sausage Creole turns out perfectly every time.

Storage: After enjoying your meal, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days.
Freezing: This dish freezes well! Just portion it out into freezer-safe containers and store for up to three months.
Pairing: Serve with a side of cornbread or a crisp green salad for a complete meal.
Meal Prep: You can prepare the ingredients ahead of time and store them in the fridge. Just throw everything into the slow cooker when you’re ready to cook.
Spice Level: Adjust the spiciness by adding more or less cayenne pepper according to your preference.

What to Pair With Slow Cooker Chicken and Sausage Creole

When it comes to serving Slow Cooker Chicken and Sausage Creole, there are plenty of delightful options to enhance your meal experience. Here are some ideas:

Brown Rice: Serve it over a bed of warm brown rice to absorb the flavorful sauce.
Crusty Bread: A slice of crusty bread is perfect for mopping up every last bit of that delicious sauce.
Salad: Pair it with a light salad for a refreshing contrast to the hearty flavors of the dish.
Side Dishes: Consider serving with sides like roasted vegetables or coleslaw for added crunch.
Occasions: This dish is great for family dinners, gatherings, or even meal prep for the week.

FAQ

What sets Slow Cooker Chicken and Sausage Creole apart is the rich blend of spices and ingredients that create a unique flavor profile. The combination of chicken and Andouille sausage adds depth, while the slow cooking method allows these flavors to meld beautifully. Each bite is a comforting experience, making it a favorite in many households.

Absolutely! One of the best features of Slow Cooker Chicken and Sausage Creole is that it can be prepared in advance. You can chop your vegetables and measure out your spices the night before and store them in the fridge. When you’re ready, just add everything to the slow cooker, and let it work its magic. This is perfect for busy weeknights!

This dish pairs wonderfully with various sides. Consider serving Slow Cooker Chicken and Sausage Creole over a bed of brown rice for a hearty meal. Additionally, crusty bread or a fresh salad complements the spicy flavors beautifully. You can also add some roasted vegetables for a complete dinner experience.

If you prefer a milder flavor, you can easily adjust the spice level of Slow Cooker Chicken and Sausage Creole. Start by reducing the amount of cayenne pepper you use, or omit it entirely. Alternatively, if you love heat, feel free to increase the spice by adding more Creole seasoning or even some chopped jalapeños for an extra kick!

Conclusion

Slow Cooker Chicken and Sausage Creole is a culinary delight that brings warmth, comfort, and flavor to the table. It’s a dish that not only satisfies your hunger but also creates lasting memories with loved ones. I encourage you to try making this recipe tonight; you won’t regret the deliciousness that awaits you!