Set a (dutch) pot on medium heat. Once hot, add the chicken sausage and chop it up as it cooks, about 1 -2 minutes. Alternatively, if using cooked sausage, cook until the outside edges begin to sear. Add the onion, celery, bell pepper and garlic. Continue mixing and chopping up the sausage with the veggies, about 2 -3 minutes.
Add the seasoning and rice and mix everything together, ensuring that every grain of rice is covered in oil and seasoning, about 1 -2 minutes. Pour in the broth and diced tomatoes. Add a pinch of sea salt & pepper and then bring to a light simmer. Once lightly simmering, add the bay leaves, then partially cover and cook for 25 – 30 minutes, or until 85% of the liquid has been absorbed by the rice.
Fold in the lump crab meat (or shrimp), then completely cover and cook for an additional 10 -12 minutes until the rice is cooked to your satisfaction. Add tablespoons of chicken broth if the rice is too dry. Season to taste with sea salt, pepper and Louisiana hot sauce.
Garnish and enjoy!