Name: Instant Pot Creole Chicken and Sausage
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: PT-487828H40M44S
Cuisine: Creole
Ingredients: 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 12–16 ounces Andouille sausage, sliced; 1 14-ounce can fire-roasted crushed tomatoes; 2–3 tablespoons tomato paste (optional, for thicker sauce); 2 green or red bell peppers, chopped; ½ onion, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon Creole seasoning; 1–2 teaspoons salt (if Creole seasoning doesn’t contain salt); Optional toppings: cooked rice, shredded cheese, chopped cilantro, sliced green onions, hot sauce, sour cream

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe brings the taste of New Orleans straight to your kitchen. Juicy chicken and smoky sausage meld with a tomato-based sauce infused with Creole seasoning and garlic for a dish that’s hearty, comforting, and full of flavor. The Instant Pot speeds up the cooking time while keeping the chicken perfectly tender and the vegetables vibrant. It’s versatile, easy to prep, and perfect for family dinners or meal prep.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
12–16 ounces Andouille sausage, sliced
1 14-ounce can fire-roasted crushed tomatoes
2–3 tablespoons tomato paste (optional, for a thicker sauce)
2 green or red bell peppers, chopped
½ an onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon Creole seasoning
1–2 teaspoons salt (if your Creole seasoning doesn’t contain salt)
Optional toppings/serving: cooked rice, shredded cheese, chopped cilantro, sliced green onions, hot sauce, sour cream

Directions

Set the Instant Pot to sauté mode and lightly brown the sausage slices for 3–4 minutes. Remove and set aside.
Add a bit of oil if needed, then sauté the onion, bell peppers, and garlic for 2–3 minutes until fragrant and slightly softened.
Add the chicken breasts, Creole seasoning, salt, crushed tomatoes, and tomato paste (if using). Stir to combine.
Return the sausage to the pot. Secure the lid and set the Instant Pot to manual high pressure for 10 minutes.
When cooking is complete, allow a natural pressure release for 5 minutes, then carefully release any remaining pressure.
Remove the chicken and slice or shred as desired, then return to the sauce. Stir to combine.
Serve hot over rice or your choice of base, and top with cheese, cilantro, green onions, hot sauce, or sour cream for extra flavor.

Servings and Timing

This recipe serves 4 people.
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 15 minutes (plus pressure time)
Total time: 30–35 minutes

Variations

Use chicken thighs for extra flavor and juiciness.
Add okra or corn for more vegetables and a true Creole touch.
Make it spicier with additional cayenne pepper or hot sauce.
Serve with cauliflower rice or quinoa for a lower-carb option.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until warmed through. This dish can also be frozen for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

FAQs

Can I make this recipe without an Instant Pot?

Yes, you can simmer everything in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat for 25–30 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce thickens.

Can I use frozen chicken?

Yes, but increase the Instant Pot cooking time by 2–3 minutes. Make sure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, as long as your Creole seasoning and sausage are gluten-free.

Can I make it spicier?

Absolutely! Add cayenne pepper, hot sauce, or extra Creole seasoning to taste.

What can I serve this with?

Traditionally served over steamed white rice, but it’s also delicious with mashed potatoes, grits, or even pasta.

Conclusion

Instant Pot Creole Chicken and Sausage is a quick, flavorful, and comforting dish that brings the vibrant taste of Creole cooking to your table. With juicy chicken, smoky sausage, and a rich, tomato-based sauce, it’s perfect for easy weeknight dinners or meal prep. Customize the heat, vegetables, and toppings to make it your own and enjoy a little taste of New Orleans at home.