Cajun Chicken Chili Recipe

This Cajun Chicken Chili is a hearty and delicious dish that’s perfect for a cold night or a casual get-together. It’s packed with tender chicken, spicy andouille sausage, a medley of vegetables, and a creamy, Cajun-spiced broth. It’s easy to make, ready in just 40 minutes, and sure to warm you up from the inside out.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavorful: The combination of Cajun seasoning, andouille sausage, and vegetables creates a delicious depth of flavor with a spicy kick.
• Hearty and satisfying: This chili is a complete meal in itself, with plenty of protein and fiber to keep you feeling full and satisfied.
• Easy to make: This recipe is simple to follow and comes together in just 40 minutes.
• Versatile: You can easily adjust the spiciness and add your favorite toppings, such as sour cream, cheese, or green onions.

this Recipe

Ingredients for Cajun Chicken Chili

This recipe uses fresh, wholesome ingredients to create a flavorful and satisfying chili. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Oil or Butter: For sautéing the vegetables and browning the sausage.
• Yellow Onion, Green Bell Pepper, Celery: Aromatic vegetables that form the flavor base of the chili.
• Garlic: Adds a pungent flavor.
• Andouille Sausage: A spicy smoked sausage that adds a delicious depth of flavor.
• All-Purpose Flour: Used to thicken the chili.
• Chicken Broth: Forms the base of the flavorful broth.
• Cooked Chicken: Use rotisserie chicken, leftover chicken, or cook your own chicken breasts.
• Red Beans or Navy Beans: Adds a hearty texture and a boost of protein and fiber.
• White Corn: Adds a touch of sweetness and texture.
• Chopped Green Chilies: Adds a mild chili flavor.
• Cumin and Cajun Seasoning: Spices that add depth and warmth to the chili.
• Half and Half or Heavy Cream: Adds richness and creaminess to the chili.
• Kosher Salt and Freshly Ground Black Pepper: Enhance the overall taste.
• White Rice (optional): Serve the chili over white rice for a complete meal.
• Fresh Parsley (optional): Adds a fresh, herbaceous garnish.

(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

How to Make Cajun Chicken Chili

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables and Sausage

Heat the olive oil or butter in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, bell pepper, celery, and garlic. Cook until the vegetables are starting to soften, about 5-7 minutes. Add the sliced andouille sausage and cook for 2-3 minutes more.

Step 2: Make the Roux

Sprinkle the flour over the vegetables and sausage. Cook, stirring constantly, for about 1 minute.

Step 3: Simmer the Chili

Stir in the chicken broth, cooked chicken, beans (drained and rinsed), corn (drained), green chilies, cumin, and Cajun seasoning. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the chili has thickened, about 15 minutes.

Step 4: Add the Cream and Serve

Stir in the half and half or heavy cream. Season to taste with salt and pepper. Let the chili cook for 2-3 minutes to reduce the cream slightly. Serve hot and enjoy!

Step 5: Optional Serving Suggestion

Serve the Cajun Chicken Chili over cooked white rice, if desired. Garnish with fresh parsley.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Sausage: You can use other types of smoked sausage, such as kielbasa or chorizo, instead of andouille sausage.
• Spice level: Adjust the amount of Cajun seasoning to your liking.
• Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables, such as diced carrots, chopped bell peppers, or sliced jalapeños.
• Beans: You can use other types of beans, such as black beans or kidney beans.
• Cream: You can use half and half or heavy cream for a richer flavor.

How to Serve Cajun Chicken Chili

• Hearty meal: This chili is a complete and satisfying meal on its own.
• With rice: Serve the chili over cooked white rice for a heartier meal.
• With toppings: Add your favorite toppings, such as sour cream, shredded cheese, or green onions.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

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

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through.

FAQs

Can I make this chili in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can! Simply brown the sausage and sauté the vegetables on the stovetop, then transfer everything to a slow cooker. Add the remaining ingredients and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or until the flavors have melded.

My chili is too thick, what should I do?
If your chili is too thick, you can thin it out with a bit more broth or water.

Can I make this chili vegetarian?
Yes, you can! Simply omit the chicken and andouille sausage and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can also add more vegetables, such as mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers.

Can I make this chili spicier?
Yes, you can add more Cajun seasoning, red pepper flakes, or even a chopped chili pepper to the chili.

There you have it! A simple and delicious recipe for Cajun Chicken Chili. I hope you enjoy it!

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