Embark on a flavor-packed journey to the heart of Cajun cuisine with Louisiana Chicken Sauce Piquant, a soul-warming dish that's equal parts spicy, tangy, and savory. This classic recipe features tender, golden-browned chicken thighs slow-simmered in a robust tomato-based sauce perfumed with aromatic vegetables, smoked paprika, and a hint of heat from hot sauce. The combination of caramelized tomato paste, earthy thyme, and a splash of vinegar creates a perfectly balanced medley of bold flavors. Served over fluffy white rice and finished with fresh parsley, this comforting, one-pot masterpiece showcases the authentic taste of Louisiana while being hearty enough to feed the whole family. Perfect for a Sunday supper or any occasion when you're craving big, bold Southern flavors!
Season the chicken thighs with 1 teaspoon of kosher salt and 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper. Lightly dredge them in flour, shaking off the excess.
In a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken thighs in batches and sear until browned on both sides, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.
In the same pot, reduce the heat to medium and add the diced onion, green bell pepper, and celery. Sauté until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
Stir in the garlic, tomato paste, smoked paprika, thyme, and remaining kosher salt and black pepper. Cook for 2 minutes, allowing the tomato paste to caramelize slightly.
Add the canned diced tomatoes (with their juices), chicken stock, bay leaves, hot sauce, and white vinegar. Stir to combine, and bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
Reduce the heat to low, return the chicken thighs to the pot, and cover. Simmer for 60-70 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is tender and the sauce thickens slightly.
Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. If the dish is too tangy, add a pinch of sugar to balance the flavors.
Remove the bay leaves, then garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Serve hot over cooked white rice, if desired, for a complete meal with true Louisiana flair!
Calories |
3970 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 193.1 g | 248% | |
| Saturated Fat | 42.8 g | 214% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 40.4 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 947 mg | 316% | |
| Sodium | 4314 mg | 188% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 233.4 g | 85% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 30.3 g | 108% | |
| Total Sugars | 46.6 g | ||
| Protein | 318.8 g | 638% | |
| Vitamin D | 1.6 mcg | 8% | |
| Calcium | 754 mg | 58% | |
| Iron | 30.1 mg | 167% | |
| Potassium | 5811 mg | 124% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.