Instant Pot Creole Chicken and Turkey Sausage Magic

If you love dishes bursting with rich, smoky flavor and crave something quick yet satisfying, this Instant Pot Creole Chicken and Turkey Sausage recipe is your new kitchen magic. Savor bold flavors with Instant Pot Creole Chicken and Turkey Sausage cooked to perfection in a rich, smoky, and plant-based delight that fills your home with irresistible aromas and delivers a hearty, soulful meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Speedy and Convenient: The Instant Pot dramatically reduces cooking time without compromising on flavor.
• Flavor Explosion: Classic Creole spices and smoked turkey sausage create a bold, savory taste you’ll crave again and again.
• Comforting and Nutritious: A perfect balance of lean protein and vibrant vegetables for a wholesome meal.
• One-Pot Wonder: Easy cleanup with everything cooked together, blending flavors beautifully.
• Versatile Dish: Ideal for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or impressing guests with minimal effort.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering simple, fresh ingredients is key to unlocking the signature Creole magic in this dish. Each element plays its essential role boosting flavor, adding texture, or introducing that perfect color contrast to make your Instant Pot Creole Chicken and Turkey Sausage unforgettable.

• Chicken thighs: Skin-on, bone-in for the juiciest and most tender results.
• Smoked turkey sausage: Adds a smoky depth reminiscent of classic Creole dishes.
• Bell peppers: A colorful mix for crunch and sweetness.
• Onions and garlic: The aromatic base that breathes life into the sauce.
• Tomato paste (natural): Intensifies the rich, tangy flavor essential for Creole cooking.
• Diced tomatoes: Brings freshness and a touch of natural acidity.
• Celery: Adds a subtle earthy crunch and balances the spices.
• Creole seasoning (natural): A bold blend of spices layering heat and complexity.
• Smoked paprika (natural): Enhances that deep, smoky undertone.
• Vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural): Delivers a savory umami richness.
• Chicken broth: The flavorful liquid base that ties everything together.
• Natural gelling agent: Used sparingly to achieve the perfect sauce consistency.
• Olive oil: For sautéing and a smooth mouthfeel.
• Fresh parsley: For a bright, herby finish.
• Optional hot sauce (natural): For an extra kick if you like it spicy.

Variations for Instant Pot Creole Chicken and Turkey Sausage

This recipe is wonderfully adaptable feel free to tweak it based on what you have or your family’s favorite flavors. It’s easy to personalize the seasoning or swap veggies to create your own twist on this Creole classic.

• Vegetable-packed: Add zucchini or okra for added texture and nutrients.
• Milder version: Reduce the Creole seasoning and skip the hot sauce for a gentle introduction to Creole flavors.
• Whole grain substitute: Serve over brown rice or quinoa for a heartier, fiber-rich bowl.
• More greens: Stir in fresh spinach or kale near the end for a boost of color and vitamins.
• Seafood addition: Toss in peeled shrimp during the last few minutes for surf meets turf excitement.

How to Make Instant Pot Creole Chicken and Turkey Sausage

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Begin by slicing the smoked turkey sausage into bite-sized pieces and dicing the bell peppers, onions, celery, and garlic. Pat dry the chicken thighs to ensure they brown beautifully.

Step 2: Sauté the Base

Set your Instant Pot to sauté mode and heat olive oil. Brown the chicken thighs on both sides, then set aside. Next, sauté onions, garlic, celery, and bell peppers until fragrant and slightly softened.

Step 3: Build the Sauce

Add tomato paste (natural) to the sautéed vegetables and stir until it’s caramelized slightly, then pour in diced tomatoes, chicken broth, vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural), Creole seasoning (natural), smoked paprika (natural), and the natural gelling agent. Stir everything thoroughly.

Step 4: Pressure Cook Everything Together

Return the chicken thighs and turkey sausage to the pot, mixing them gently into the sauce. Seal the Instant Pot and cook on high pressure for 12 minutes, followed by a natural pressure release for 10 minutes.

Step 5: Finish and Garnish

Unseal the pot, remove the chicken to shred or serve whole if preferred, then stir the sauce to thicken and incorporate any natural gelling agent. Adjust seasoning and add fresh parsley before plating.

Pro Tips for Making Instant Pot Creole Chicken and Turkey Sausage

• Brown for better flavor: Don’t skip browning the chicken and sausage to develop richer taste and texture.
• Layer your spices: Add spices gradually during cooking to avoid overpowering the dish.
• Use bone-in chicken: Keeps the meat juicy and adds body to the sauce.
• Natural gelling agent caution: Add just enough to slightly thicken the sauce without turning it overly firm.
• Fresh herbs at the end: Boosts aroma and freshness without losing their bright flavor.

How to Serve Instant Pot Creole Chicken and Turkey Sausage

Garnishes

A sprinkle of fresh parsley or sliced green onions adds a burst of color and fresh flavor that elevates the dish beautifully.

Side Dishes

Pair this vibrant dish with steamed jasmine rice, cauliflower rice, or creamy mashed sweet potatoes (plant-based) to soak up every last drop of the bold sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

For a special touch, serve it in a vibrant bowl with a wedge of lemon or lime to squeeze over and a side of crusty bread for dipping into that smoky sauce.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Let the dish cool completely before transferring to airtight containers. Store in the fridge for up to 4 days, maintaining the vibrant flavors and tender textures.

Freezing

This recipe freezes beautifully portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags and freeze for up to 3 months, perfect for ready-made comfort on busy days.

Reheating

Warm leftovers gently over low heat on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally and adding a splash of broth if needed to loosen the sauce.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, but boneless skinless chicken breasts will cook faster and may be less juicy than thighs, so adjust the cooking time slightly and watch the moisture levels.

What if I don’t have an Instant Pot?

You can make this on the stovetop by simmering covered on low heat until the chicken is tender, though it will take longer and require occasional stirring.

Is smoked turkey sausage easy to find?

Most grocery stores carry smoked turkey sausage in their refrigerated meat section, offering a great alternative that enhances Creole flavor beautifully.

Can I make this dish spicier?

Absolutely! Add extra Creole seasoning or a few dashes of natural hot sauce to elevate the heat level to your liking.

What is the best rice to serve with this dish?

Steamed white jasmine rice is traditional and complements the sauce perfectly, but brown rice or cauliflower rice are excellent low-carb options.

Final Thoughts

Instant Pot Creole Chicken and Turkey Sausage is such a joyful, flavorful dish that lights up the dinner table and fills your kitchen with warmth. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a casual weekend feast, this recipe brings together bold Creole spices and comforting textures in a way that’s easy, satisfying, and truly delicious. Give it a try you’ll be hooked from the very first bite!

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