Delicious Spicy Jambalaya Soup with Andouille Sausage Chicken to Warm You Up

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When I first made the Spicy Jambalaya Soup with Andouille Sausage Chicken, I wasn’t sure how my family would react. My kiddos can be picky, and my husband often looks for meals with a bit of kick but nothing too overwhelming. The whole idea came from a chilly evening when I wanted something warm, comforting, and filling without spending hours in the kitchen. This spicy jambalaya soup with andouille sausage chicken immediately felt like a cozy hug in a bowl.

I remember chopping the veggies and browning the andouille sausage, wondering if the flavors would come together just right. But the aroma soon filled the house, pulling everyone into the kitchen with hungry eyes. My husband declared it “just the right amount of spicy,” and the kids happily ate their bowls with extra bread for dipping. This spicy jambalaya soup with andouille sausage chicken quickly became one of those go-to meals for family comfort.

What makes this creole chicken and sausage soup truly special is how it simplifies a classic New Orleans jambalaya into an easy soup form without losing the soul of that iconic dish. As a busy mom, I love that it’s richly flavored but doesn’t keep me tied to the stove. If you’re looking for a warm, satisfying meal that serves your whole crew with smiles, this spicy jambalaya soup with andouille sausage chicken is a worthy addition to your weeknight line-up.

If you’d like more comforting family-friendly recipes, you might appreciate my kreole take on this, or even check out other comforting soups like my tortellini soup with sausage or chicken parmesan soup for easy recipes that bring warmth and smiles to your table—because busy moms deserve meals that feel like a little celebration.

Ingredients You’ll Need:

Ingredients for spicy jambalaya soup with andouille sausage chicken including sausage, chicken, vegetables, and spices
  • 1 pound andouille sausage, sliced – This smoky and spicy sausage brings bold flavor and comfort to your spicy jambalaya soup with andouille sausage chicken. If andouille isn’t available, smoked kielbasa works perfectly for that same warmth.
  • 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs, diced – These stay tender and juicy in the spicy chicken soups.
  • 1 medium onion, chopped – The flavor base for any great Cajun jambalaya soup.
  • 1 green bell pepper, chopped – Adds a mild crunch and freshness.
  • 2 celery stalks, chopped – Classic in Creole chicken and sausage soup for depth.
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced – Because comfort food without garlic feels incomplete.
  • 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes – Provides tang and body.
  • 4 cups chicken broth – Use low sodium for better control of flavor.
  • 1 cup cooked rice – Optional for heartier bowls of spicy jambalaya soup with andouille sausage chicken.
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika – Adds a subtle smoky kick.
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme – For that Creole touch.
  • 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste) – Your spicy jambalaya soup with andouille sausage chicken needs this zip.
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

You can find these ingredients in your regular grocery store; no specialty trips needed. Trust me, this spicy jambalaya soup with andouille sausage chicken ingredient list is simple because busy moms need comfort without complexity! If you want an extra comfort boost, sometimes I add a splash of hot sauce or a few dashes of Worcestershire sauce for deeper flavor.

Need a shortcut? Pre-minced garlic and pre-chopped onion mixes help save time without losing flavor. You can also use rotisserie chicken instead of fresh thighs for a quicker prep.

Let’s Make it Happen!

  1. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the sliced andouille sausage and cook until browned on both sides, about 5 minutes. This step builds a smoky base for your spicy jambalaya soup with andouille sausage chicken.
  2. Remove the sausage and set aside, leaving the flavorful oil in the pot. Add diced chicken thighs and cook until just browned, about 4-5 minutes. Stir occasionally.
  3. Toss in the chopped onions, bell pepper, celery, and garlic. Cook, stirring regularly, until the vegetables soften and smell wonderful, about 6 minutes. Your spicy jambalaya soup with andouille sausage chicken is starting to come alive!
  4. Add the diced tomatoes, chicken broth, smoked paprika, thyme, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper to the pot. Stir everything together and bring to a simmer.
  5. Return the sausage to the pot. Reduce the heat and let your spicy jambalaya soup with andouille sausage chicken simmer gently for 30 minutes. If you have a busy evening, this simmering time is perfect for prepping snacks or school lunches.
  6. If you want a heartier meal, stir in cooked rice during the last 10 minutes. This makes the spicy jambalaya soup with andouille sausage chicken extra comforting and filling.
  7. Taste and adjust seasonings. If you like a bit more heat, add a pinch of cayenne or a splash of hot sauce. Your kitchen should now smell like a southern bistro!

I used to struggle with balancing spice levels for everyone, but letting the soup simmer slowly helped mellow the flavors just enough. Don’t worry if your spicy jambalaya soup with andouille sausage chicken looks more stew-like—that means it’s packed with goodness!

How We Love to Eat This!

Bowl of spicy jambalaya soup with andouille sausage chicken served with crusty bread

My family can’t get enough of this spicy jambalaya soup with andouille sausage chicken served with crusty bread or buttery cornbread, perfect for dipping and soaking up all those rich flavors. The kids especially love it paired with simple steamed green beans or roasted carrots—they add some color and sweetness that helps balance the spice.

This spicy jambalaya soup with andouille sausage chicken is a lifesaver on busy weeknights. It comes together with little fuss and the leftovers taste even better the next day. Sometimes I make a bigger batch and freeze portions for weeks when the cozy chaos feels even more overwhelming. I also love serving it at casual gatherings — guests always ask for the recipe after trying this New Orleans jambalaya-inspired comfort in soup form.

If your kids love this hearty recipe, they’ll go crazy for my tortellini soup with sausage too. For more simple comfort food ideas for busy families, check out my chicken parmesan soup or chili’s chicken enchilada soup recipe!

FAQs: Your Questions Answered

Is this spicy jambalaya soup with andouille sausage chicken filling enough for growing kids?
Absolutely! The mix of protein-packed chicken and sausage with rice makes it a complete meal. Plus, the warm broth keeps kids cozy and satisfied even on cold days.

What if my picky eater won’t try this spicy jambalaya soup with andouille sausage chicken?
Try reducing the cayenne pepper at first and serve the soup with plain rice or bread to balance flavors. Sometimes letting kids add their own hot sauce on the side helps them experiment while feeling in control.

Can I meal prep this spicy jambalaya soup with andouille sausage chicken for busy weeks ahead?
Definitely. It freezes well in portions. Just thaw and reheat on the stove, adding a splash of broth if it thickens too much.

Can I substitute the andouille sausage in this recipe?
Yes, smoky kielbasa or even chorizo would keep the bold flavors. I’ve tried smoked turkey sausage for a leaner option, and it still gave us that comforting, spicy kick.

How spicy is this spicy jambalaya soup with andouille sausage chicken?
You control the heat. I usually start with ½ teaspoon of cayenne and adjust to family taste. Remember, the slow simmer mellows the spice.

Is this soup related to classic jambalaya?
Yes, it’s inspired by New Orleans jambalaya, but turned into a soup for quicker eats and super cozy dinners. For a traditional take, check Creole-Style Red Jambalaya With Chicken, Sausage, and Shrimp.

Can I add shrimp or other seafood?
Sure! Shrimp cooks quickly — add it in the last 5 minutes for a taste of coastal Creole cooking.

Final Thoughts:

This spicy jambalaya soup with andouille sausage chicken has become a cornerstone of my family’s cozy meals. Its rich flavors hit all the comfort zones, and the way it brings everyone to the table makes all the kitchen hustle worthwhile.

My Spicy Jambalaya Soup with Andouille Sausage Chicken Comfort Hacks:

  • Use pre-chopped veggies to save precious minutes in the kitchen.
  • Cook the sausage and chicken together first to layer flavor.
  • Make a big batch and freeze portions to skip cooking when life gets wild.

We’ve experimented with some lovely variations. My husband loves adding extra cayenne for a real kick, my daughter prefers swapping chicken for turkey sausage, and my son enjoys mixing in extra rice to stretch the meal further. Each twist keeps the core comfort intact but feels personalized.

Remember, this spicy jambalaya soup with andouille sausage chicken is simple enough for busy moms and satisfying enough for the whole family. Don’t hesitate to make it your own and share the comfort at your table often. If you’d like more cozy soup ideas that fit your family’s rhythm, check out my tortellini soup with sausage, chicken parmesan soup, or chili’s chicken enchilada soup recipe for more winter-favorite dinnertime wins.

Give yourself permission to enjoy the comforting simplicity of this spicy jambalaya soup with andouille sausage chicken. You’ve got this, fellow comfort seekers!

For those eager to discuss and swap stories about their own jambalaya creations, join these supportive communities where we celebrate hearty family meals without the fuss:

Remember, your spicy jambalaya soup with andouille sausage chicken journey is all about feeding your family well without stress, with a bowl full of love.

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Spicy Jambalaya Soup with Andouille Sausage Chicken

Print Recipe

This hearty Spicy Jambalaya Soup combines smoky Andouille sausage and tender chicken in a flavorful broth with classic Cajun spices, perfect for a comforting meal any day.

  • Author: Beatriz
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 40 minutes
  • Total Time: 55 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Skillet
  • Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 8 oz Andouille sausage, sliced
  • 2 chicken breasts, diced
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 1 green bell pepper, chopped
  • 2 celery stalks, chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
  • 4 cups chicken broth
  • 1 cup long grain rice
  • 2 teaspoons Cajun seasoning
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for extra heat)
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add sliced Andouille sausage and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes.
  2. Add diced chicken breasts to the pot and cook until no longer pink, about 5 minutes.
  3. Stir in chopped onion, green bell pepper, celery, and garlic. Cook until vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
  4. Add diced tomatoes, chicken broth, rice, Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to combine.
  5. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 25-30 minutes, or until rice is cooked and soup has thickened.
  6. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Remove from heat.
  7. Ladle soup into bowls and garnish with sliced green onions and chopped parsley before serving.

Notes

For a richer flavor, use homemade chicken broth and serve with crusty bread or a side of cornbread.

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