Chicken creole – Classic
This is the traditional, time-tested version of the dish. It stays true to its origins, using well-established techniques and ingredients that define its authentic flavor. A perfect starting point for exploring its evolution.
Country: 
United States Of America Region / Locale: Southern united states Servings: Serves 4
United States Of America Region / Locale: Southern united states Servings: Serves 4Chicken Creole is a vibrant and spicy dish deeply rooted in the heart of Louisiana. There, Creole cooking merges French, Spanish, and West African influences into a delightful culinary symphony. This dish combines succulent chicken with the holy trinity of Creole cooking: bell peppers, onions, and celery, all simmered in a rich tomato sauce spiced with cayenne and paprika. Traditionally served over rice, Chicken Creole captures the lively spirit of New Orleans and the comforting warmth of Southern hospitality.
Ingredients
- chicken thighs, boneless and skinless – 1.5 lbs / 680 g
- olive oil – 2 tbsp / 30 ml
- onion, diced – 1 large / 150 g
- bell pepper, diced – 1 large / 150 g
- celery, chopped – 2 stalks / 100 g
- garlic, minced – 4 cloves
- canned diced tomatoes – 1 can (14 oz / 400 g)
- chicken broth – 1 cup / 240 ml
- tomato paste – 2 tbsp / 30 g
- cayenne pepper – 1/4 tsp
- paprika – 1 tsp
- dried thyme – 1 tsp
- salt – 1 tsp
- black pepper – 1/2 tsp
- fresh parsley, chopped – 2 tbsp / 8 g
- cooked rice, for serving – 4 servings
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Season chicken thighs with salt and black pepper. Cook chicken until browned on all sides, about 6-8 minutes. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add onion, bell pepper, and celery. Sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Add garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Stir in diced tomatoes, chicken broth, and tomato paste. Mix well.
- Add cayenne pepper, paprika, thyme, salt, and black pepper. Bring to a simmer.
- Return chicken to the skillet. Cover and let simmer on low heat for 20 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through.
- Garnish with fresh parsley. Serve hot over rice.
Substitutions
- chicken thighs, boneless and skinless -> chicken breasts
- olive oil -> vegetable oil
- canned diced tomatoes -> fresh tomatoes, chopped
Enhancements in the Next Evolution
- Add smoked sausage to enhance the Creole flavor.
- Incorporate bay leaves during simmering for added depth.
- Use fresh thyme if available for a more aromatic flavor.
Curious to see how this dish evolves? Discover refined flavors and enhanced techniques in the next version.
