When comfort food meets Cajun flair, this Cajun Chicken and Sausage White Bean Stew delivers everything you crave in a single spoonful.
With tender chicken, smoky andouille sausage, creamy white beans, and the perfect kick from jalapeño and Cajun seasoning, this hearty stew is the definition of soul-warming.
This dish is perfect for chilly nights, game-day gatherings, or anytime you want bold flavor with minimal cleanup.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Bold Cajun flavor – A beautiful balance of spice, smoke, and savor.
One-pot meal – Less mess, more flavor.
Creamy without being heavy – Thanks to sour cream and white beans.
Hearty and filling – Packed with protein and fiber.
Customizable heat – Control the spice with jalapeño and Cajun levels.
What You’ll Need (Ingredient Highlights)
Andouille sausage – Smoky, spicy, and the flavor backbone of the dish.
Chicken breasts or thighs – Tender, lean protein that soaks up the spice.
Trinity veggies – Onion, celery, and bell pepper for a rich Cajun base.
Jalapeño – Adds a nice kick without overwhelming heat.
Garlic – Builds aromatic depth.
White beans – Creamy and filling, perfect for stews.
Salsa verde – Tangy and herby twist that lightens the dish.
Sour cream – Adds richness and a slight tang.
Parmesan cheese – Melts in for extra creaminess and depth.
Cajun seasoning & cumin – Warm, earthy spice profile.
Chicken broth – Builds a savory, sippable base.
Cilantro, green onion, lime – Optional but bright and refreshing.
Pro Tips Before You Start
Brown the sausage first – It brings out smoky flavor and creates a base.
Don’t overcook the chicken – Cook just until done to keep it juicy.
Use full-fat sour cream or crema – For the richest finish.
Rinse the beans – Removes excess salt and starch.
Add toppings last – Cilantro, lime, and green onion keep things fresh.
How to Make Cajun Chicken and Sausage Stew
Step 1: Sear the Sausage
In a large pot, heat oil over medium heat.
Add sliced andouille sausage and cook for 5–7 minutes until browned.
Remove with a slotted spoon and set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Season chicken with Cajun seasoning.
Add to the pot and cook until lightly golden, about 5–7 minutes.
Remove and set aside.
Step 3: Sauté the Veggies
Add butter to the same pot.
Once melted, stir in onion, celery, bell pepper, and jalapeño.
Cook for 7–10 minutes, until vegetables are soft.
Step 4: Add Spices
Stir in garlic, cumin, and more Cajun seasoning.
Cook for about 1 minute, until fragrant.
Step 5: Simmer the Stew
Pour in chicken broth and add beans, salsa verde, sausage, and chicken.
Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes.
Step 6: Shred the Chicken
Turn off the heat. Remove the chicken, shred or slice it, then return it to the pot.
Step 7: Finish with Creaminess
Stir in sour cream and parmesan until melted and smooth.
Step 8: Add Freshness and Serve
Add lime juice, chopped cilantro, and green onions.
Taste and adjust salt and pepper. Serve hot!
What to Serve It With
Crusty bread – For dunking into the creamy stew.
Steamed rice – Makes it extra filling.
Cornbread – A Southern classic that fits perfectly.
Simple salad – For a fresh contrast.
Variations / Substitutions
Use turkey sausage – For a lighter option.
Skip the jalapeño – For a milder version.
Try Greek yogurt – In place of sour cream.
Add corn – For sweetness and color.
Use rotisserie chicken – For even faster prep.
Storage & Leftovers
Fridge – Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Reheat – Gently on the stove or in the microwave.
Freeze – Cool completely before freezing.
Thaw and reheat with extra broth if needed.
FAQs
Is this stew spicy?
It has a kick, but you control the heat with the jalapeño and Cajun seasoning.
Can I make it dairy-free?
Yes! Use coconut cream or omit the sour cream and cheese.
What beans work best?
Cannellini or Great Northern are creamy and hold up well.
Can I make this in a slow cooker?
Yes. Brown the meats first, then cook everything on low for 6–8 hours.
How do I thicken the stew?
Mash some beans or simmer uncovered for a few extra minutes.
Can I prep it in advance?
Definitely—it tastes even better the next day!
Final Thoughts
This Cajun Chicken and Sausage Stew is bold, creamy, and packed with soul.
It’s a true one-pot meal that hits every note: spice, comfort, and big flavor.
Make it once and you’ll find yourself craving it on repeat.
Cajun Chicken & Sausage Stew
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon oil
- 1 pound andouille sausage sliced or diced
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning plus more to taste
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 cup onion diced
- 1 cup celery diced
- 1 cup bell pepper diced
- 1 jalapeño pepper finely diced
- 4 cloves garlic chopped
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 14.5 oz cans white beans, rinsed and drained
- 1/2 cup salsa verde
- 1/2 cup sour cream or crema, heavy cream, or cream cheese
- 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese or cotija, grated
- 1 tablespoon lime juice optional
- 2 tablespoons cilantro or parsley, chopped (optional)
- 2 green onions thinly sliced (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add sausage and cook 5–7 minutes. Remove and set aside.
- Season chicken with Cajun seasoning.
- Add to pot and cook until golden, 5–7 minutes. Remove and set aside.
- Add butter, then onion, celery, bell pepper, and jalapeño.
- Cook 7–10 minutes until soft.
- Stir in garlic, cumin, and more Cajun seasoning. Cook 1 minute.
- See full steps with tips & photos → https://p4pd.org/cajun-chicken-and-sausage-stew/
Notes
- Heat Level: Omit jalapeño seeds or reduce Cajun seasoning for milder flavor.
- Bean Swap: Pinto or kidney beans work well in place of white beans.
- Vegetarian Option: Replace meats with smoked tofu or vegan sausage and use vegetable broth.
