Crockpot Cajun Chicken and Sausage Stew for Easy Weeknight Dinners Tips, FAQ & printable recipe

Tips for success

For a deeper flavor, you can sear the chicken and sausage in a skillet before adding them to the slow cooker. This extra step adds a caramelized crust to the meat, which contributes a rich, roasted note to the final stew. While not strictly necessary, it is a great technique to employ if you have a few extra minutes at the beginning of your meal preparation.

If you prefer a thicker stew, you can stir in a small amount of cornstarch slurry during the last 30 minutes of cooking. Simply mix one tablespoon of cornstarch with two tablespoons of cold water and add it to the pot.

This will help bind the liquid and create a heartier, more substantial sauce that clings beautifully to the chicken, sausage, and rice when served.

Variations

• Seafood Cajun Stew: Incorporate shrimp or scallops during the final 15 minutes of cooking. These proteins cook quickly and add a delicate sweetness that pairs perfectly with the Cajun spice blend and sausage.
• Vegetable-Forward Stew: Add diced celery, onions, and carrots along with the bell peppers. This classic mirepoix base adds depth and sweetness to the stew, making it even more robust.

Storage and make-ahead

Fridge

Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Freezer

Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.

Reheat

Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat until piping hot or in the microwave in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between, until heated through.

Allow any leftovers to cool for no more than 2 hours before transferring them to an airtight container. Properly stored, the stew will remain fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

To maintain the best texture, store the rice and the stew in separate containers, as the rice will continue to absorb liquid and become mushy if stored directly in the stew over an extended period.

This dish is an excellent candidate for making ahead, as the flavors often improve after sitting in the refrigerator overnight.

You can prepare the entire stew a day in advance, allow it to cool, and then reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave when you are ready to serve. This makes it a stress-free option for hosting or for busy work weeks when you need a quick, reliable meal.

Serving ideas

Serve this stew hot in deep bowls, ladling a generous portion over a bed of fluffy white rice. The rice acts as the perfect vessel to soak up the flavorful Cajun broth. You can garnish the dish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or green onions if you desire a pop of color and a touch of freshness to contrast with the rich, spiced sauce.

For a complete meal, consider serving the stew alongside a side of crusty bread or cornbread, which is perfect for mopping up any remaining sauce in the bowl.

The combination of the hearty stew and a simple side creates a satisfying experience that highlights the bold flavors of the Cajun seasoning. Keep a little extra hot sauce on the side for those who prefer an extra kick.

Frequently asked questions

Recipe card

Crockpot Cajun Chicken and Sausage Stew for Easy Weeknight Dinners

Prep 10 minCook 4 hRest 5 minTotal 4 h 15 minServes 6

Ingredients

• 2 lbs chicken pieces, bone-in or boneless
• 1 lb sausage, sliced into rounds
• 1 cup green bell pepper, diced
• 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning
• 2 cups chicken broth

Instructions

1. Place the raw chicken pieces and sliced sausage into the base of the slow cooker. Add the diced green bell peppers on top of the meat.
2. Sprinkle the Cajun seasoning over the chicken, sausage, and peppers. Pour the chicken broth over the ingredients, ensuring everything is lightly coated.
3. Cover the slow cooker and cook on high for 4 hours or low for 6 to 8 hours. Ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Allow the dish to rest for 5 minutes before serving hot over white rice.

Estimated nutrition per serving

Calories

450

Protein

35 g

Carbohydrates

15 g

Fat

28 g

Fiber

2 g

Sugar

3 g

Sodium

850 mg

Automatic estimate from the ingredient list, not laboratory-verified.