Name: Creole Chicken Okra Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Creole
Ingredients: 1 pound (453 g) boneless chicken, cut into bite-size pieces; 1-2 tablespoons (12-24 g) Creole seasoning; ½ medium onion, chopped; 2 teaspoons (10 g) garlic, minced; ½-1 small jalapeño peppers, finely diced; 1 bay leaf; 1 tablespoon (2 g) fresh thyme; 1 teaspoon (2 g) smoked paprika; 2 large tomatoes, chopped; ½ teaspoon (1 g) cayenne pepper; 1 can (12 oz) corn, rinsed and drained; ½ medium bell pepper, chopped; 2 cups (16 oz) okra, fresh or frozen, sliced; 2 tablespoons (12 g) green onion, sliced; 2-4 tablespoons (28-56 ml) canola oil (divided); 2 cups (500 ml) chicken broth or water; Salt to taste; Fresh minced parsley for garnish

Jump to Recipe· 3.8 from 5 reviews

If you’re craving something vibrant, flavorful, and uniquely comforting, this Creole Chicken Okra Recipe is going to win your heart and your taste buds. It’s a rich stew that beautifully marries tender, spiced chicken with fresh okra and a medley of colorful vegetables, all simmered in a savory broth that bursts with authentic Creole character. Whether you’re a fan of Southern cooking or just looking to explore something new, this dish offers a perfect balance of heat, color, and soul-satisfying goodness.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a bowl filled with a colorful vegetable dish. The bottom layer contains small, round yellow corn kernels mixed with tiny diced red and orange vegetables, creating a textured and vibrant base. On top of this, there are chunky pieces of green okra, some sliced and some whole, adding a fresh and bright green color. The vegetables appear slightly cooked but still fresh, with a mix of soft and firm textures. The bowl is white and sits on a white marbled surface. The lighting highlights the vegetables’ natural colors and textures. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

This Creole Chicken Okra Recipe calls for simple, easy-to-find ingredients that come together to build incredible layers of flavor and texture. Each component plays its role, from the bold Creole seasoning that wakes up the chicken to the fresh okra that adds a lovely silky bite and the smoky paprika that deepens the savory notes.

Boneless chicken (1 pound): Tender and easy to cut into bite-sized pieces, this is the hearty protein base of the dish.
Creole seasoning (1-2 tablespoons): A vibrant blend of spices that imparts authentic Creole heat and depth.
Canola oil (2-4 tablespoons): For sautéing the chicken and vegetables, ensuring everything cooks evenly and develops color.
Onion (½ medium, chopped): Adds a foundational sweetness and body to the stew.
Garlic (2 teaspoons, minced): Brings aromatic warmth and a punch of savory flavor.
Jalapeno (½-1 small, finely diced): Offers a gentle spicy kick to liven up the dish.
Bay leaf (1): Infuses a subtle earthiness during simmering.
Thyme (1 tablespoon fresh): A fragrant herb that complements the chicken perfectly.
Smoked paprika (1 teaspoon): Adds smoky depth and a rich red hue to the stew.
Tomatoes (2 large, chopped): Bring brightness and a natural tang that balances the spices.
Cayenne pepper (½ teaspoon): For extra heat that can be dialed to taste.
Corn (1 can or 12 oz, rinsed and drained): Sweetness and a satisfying pop in every bite.
Bell pepper (½ medium, chopped): Adds crunch and colorful contrast.
Okra (2 cups, fresh or frozen, sliced): The star vegetable creating that classic Creole texture and flavor.
Green onion (2 tablespoons, sliced): A fresh garnish to finish with a mild onion bite.
Chicken broth or water (2 cups or more): The simmering liquid that melds all the tastes together.
Salt (to taste): Essential to balance and enhance all the flavors.
Parsley (fresh and minced): For a bright, herbal final touch.

How to Make Creole Chicken Okra Recipe

Step 1: Prepare and Season the Chicken

Start by cutting your boneless chicken into bite-sized pieces. This smaller size helps the chicken cook quickly and soak up that wonderful Creole seasoning. Sprinkle 1 to 2 tablespoons of Creole seasoning over the chicken, or use salt if you want to control the heat level more precisely. This step is crucial because it builds the foundational flavor that will carry through the entire dish.

Step 2: Sauté the Chicken

Heat about 1 tablespoon of canola oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the seasoned chicken pieces and sauté for around 5 minutes until they start turning golden brown. Don’t overcook here since the chicken will continue cooking with the vegetables. Once nice and seared, remove the chicken and set it aside on a plate to rest while you prepare the Creole base.

Step 3: Build the Creole Vegetable Mix

In the same pan, add 2 tablespoons of oil or more if needed, and toss in the chopped onions, minced garlic, diced jalapeno, bay leaf, fresh thyme, and smoked paprika. Stir and sauté these aromatic veggies and spices for about 2 to 3 minutes. This slow coaxing brings out rich, fragrant layers that truly define the character of this Creole Chicken Okra Recipe.

Step 4: Add Tomatoes and Other Vegetables

Next, stir in the chopped tomatoes, cayenne pepper, drained corn, and chopped bell pepper, mixing everything well. Return the sautéed chicken to the pan and let the mixture cook together for about 5 minutes. This step marries the flavors and starts building the hearty consistency of the stew while brightening it with vibrant colors.

Step 5: Incorporate Okra and Finish Cooking

Now, add the sliced okra and green onions to the pan. Pour in the chicken broth or water, seasoning with salt to taste. Simmer everything for at least 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. You can adjust the cooking time depending on how tender or crunchy you want the okra and vegetables to be. The longer it cooks, the softer and more melded the veggies will become, creating a velvety texture that is utterly delicious.

How to Serve Creole Chicken Okra Recipe

The image shows a white bowl filled with a colorful dish made of small yellow corn kernels, green slices of jalapeno, red bell pepper pieces, onions, and chunks of cooked meat mixed in a sauce. The bowl sits on a light beige cloth, placed on a blue wooden surface with a slightly worn look. In the background, there is a wooden bowl with white rice and a similar corn and jalapeno mix, all set on a white marbled surface. A silver fork lies next to the white bowl. The overall look is warm and fresh, showing vibrant colors and textures of the cooked ingredients. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Freshly minced parsley and sliced green onions are perfect garnishes for this dish. They add a pleasant burst of color and a mild herbal freshness that lifts the rich flavors. You can also consider a squeeze of fresh lemon juice or a dash of hot sauce if you want a bit of brightness or more heat to your serving.

Side Dishes

This Creole Chicken Okra Recipe is wonderful served over fluffy white rice, which soaks up all the flavorful juices perfectly. You could also pair it with creamy mashed potatoes or even cornbread for a Southern-inspired meal. A simple side salad with crisp greens and a light vinaigrette helps balance out the hearty stew on the plate.

Creative Ways to Present

For a beautiful presentation, serve the stew in shallow bowls so the colorful ingredients stand out. Garnish with parsley sprigs and a wedge of lemon on the side. If you’re making this for guests, consider placing the rice in a separate warm dish, allowing everyone to customize their portions. For an elevated touch, sprinkle some crumbled feta or freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top just before serving.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Creole Chicken Okra keeps wonderfully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually have time to deepen overnight, making leftovers even tastier. Just be sure to cool it before refrigerating to keep the veggies fresh and vibrant.

Freezing

If you want to keep this dish for a longer period, Creole Chicken Okra freezes well. Store it in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags, removing as much air as possible. It’s best consumed within 2 to 3 months to enjoy optimal flavor and texture.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers gently on the stove over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. You may need to add a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen the consistency, especially if it has thickened in the fridge or freezer. Microwaving works too, but stirring halfway through helps heat it evenly.

FAQs

Can I use frozen okra for this recipe?

Absolutely! Frozen okra works perfectly fine and can be a convenient year-round option. Just be sure to thaw it slightly and drain any excess moisture before adding it to avoid making the stew too watery.

How spicy is the Creole Chicken Okra Recipe?

The heat level depends on how much Creole seasoning, jalapeno, and cayenne pepper you use. If you prefer it mild, start with less and adjust after tasting. It’s easy to customize to your preferred spice tolerance.

Can I substitute chicken with another protein?

Yes, feel free to swap chicken with shrimp, turkey, or even tofu for a vegetarian twist. Just adjust cooking times accordingly since proteins vary in how quickly they cook through.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this Creole Chicken Okra Recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free Creole seasoning and chicken broth. It’s a delicious option for those following a gluten-free diet.

What is the best way to thicken the stew if it’s too runny?

If you find your stew is thinner than you like, let it simmer uncovered for a bit longer to reduce the liquid naturally. Alternatively, you can mash a few pieces of okra in the pot—they act as a natural thickener due to their mucilaginous texture.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about a dish that warms your soul and awakens your palate, and this Creole Chicken Okra Recipe does exactly that. Full of rich Creole flavors, tender chicken, and the unique texture of fresh okra, it’s a meal you’ll want to cook again and again. Dive in, get cooking, and enjoy every mouthful like you’re sharing a treasured secret with those you love.