Chicken Gumbo

When I think of comfort food, Chicken Gumbo is the first dish that comes to mind. Growing up in a family that loved to gather around the table, this hearty stew was a staple on chilly evenings. The rich aroma of spices and simmering broth would waft through the house, inviting everyone to come and share stories over a warm bowl of gumbo. I fondly remember the laughter and chatter that filled our kitchen, mingling with the sounds of pots clanging and spoons stirring. It was more than just a meal; it was an experience. As we gathered, each bowl served was topped with a generous scoop of fluffy rice, and I could hardly wait to dig in! Making Chicken Gumbo is a tradition that I’ve carried into my own family, and now, it’s your turn to create this magical moment in your own home. With festive spices and wholesome ingredients, this dish is perfect for any occasion!

What to Buy for Chicken Gumbo

Choosing the right ingredients is key to a successful Chicken Gumbo. Each element plays a vital role in building the rich flavors that define this classic dish. From the protein to the spices, every ingredient contributes to the overall experience.

• 1 pound Andouille sausage – Cut into 1/4-inch slices, this smoked sausage adds a depth of flavor and a bit of spice to the dish.
• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts – The star protein in Chicken Gumbo, chicken adds a tender and juicy texture.
• 1/4 cup vegetable oil – Essential for making the roux which forms the base of the gumbo.
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour – Combined with oil to make the roux, this ingredient helps thicken the gumbo.
• 1 medium onion – Peeled and chopped, this aromatic vegetable adds foundational flavor.
• 1 small green bell pepper – A key flavor contributor, it complements the other vegetables beautifully.
• 1 celery rib – Chopped, it provides a crunchy texture and enhances the flavor profile.
• 2 quarts chicken broth – The liquid base of the gumbo, offering richness and depth.
• 3 cloves garlic – Minced, garlic adds a robust flavor that elevates the dish.
• 2 teaspoons Creole seasoning – This spice blend gives the gumbo its signature taste.
• 2 bay leaves – Added for aroma, they infuse the stew with a subtle fragrance.
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme – This herb complements the other flavors beautifully.
• Hot sauce – To taste, it adds an optional kick of heat to the dish.
• 1/4 cup green onions – Chopped, they add color and freshness to the finished dish.
• 2 tablespoons minced fresh parsley – A garnish that brightens up the gumbo.
• Cooked rice – Essential for serving, it absorbs the rich flavors of the gumbo.

How to Prepare Chicken Gumbo

Making Chicken Gumbo is a delightful journey that fills your kitchen with irresistible aromas. The key steps are straightforward, allowing you to enjoy the process as much as the result.

1. In a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat, add the Andouille sausage slices. Brown them for about three to five minutes. This step enhances the sausage’s flavor and creates a lovely base for your gumbo. Once browned, remove the sausage and place it on a paper towel-lined plate to drain.
2. Next, use the same Dutch oven and add the chicken breasts. Cook them until they are brown, approximately five minutes on each side. Once cooked, remove them from the pan and set them aside.
3. Reduce the heat to medium. Add the vegetable oil and then whisk in the flour. This mixture will create your roux. Stir continuously and cook until it reaches a dark brown color, which may take about twenty to thirty minutes. Keep an eye on it to prevent burning!
4. Once the roux is ready, add the chopped onion, green bell pepper, and celery. Sauté these vegetables for about five to ten minutes until they become tender. The aroma at this stage is divine!
5. Now, pour in the chicken broth and stir to combine everything. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
6. Add the reserved chicken, minced garlic, Creole seasoning, bay leaves, and dried thyme. Reduce the heat and let it simmer for about one hour. At this point, the chicken should become fork-tender.
7. After an hour, return the browned sausage to the pot. Cook for an additional thirty minutes until everything is heated through and combined.
8. Remove the chicken and bay leaves. Cut the chicken into strips and return it to the gumbo. Season to taste with salt and add the desired amount of hot sauce.
9. Finally, finish with the green onions and parsley before serving over hot cooked rice. Enjoy!

Ways to Adapt This Recipe

Adapting Chicken Gumbo to suit your taste or dietary needs is easy! Here are some great ways to personalize this dish:

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days.
• Freezing: You can freeze Chicken Gumbo in freezer-safe containers for up to two months. Just remember to leave some headspace for expansion.
• Pairing: Consider serving with cornbread or a green salad for a well-rounded meal.
• Spice Level: Adjust the amount of hot sauce based on your spice tolerance. Start with a small amount and add more as needed!
• Vegetarian Version: Swap out meat for hearty vegetables and use vegetable broth for a vegetarian gumbo.
• Cooking Method: Try using a slow cooker for a hands-off approach. Just add all ingredients and let it simmer!

Serving This Chicken Gumbo

When it comes to serving Chicken Gumbo, there are plenty of delightful options to consider. Here are some suggestions to make your meal special:

• Over Rice: Traditional gumbo is served over hot cooked rice, which absorbs the delicious broth and balances the flavors.
• With Cornbread: A side of warm cornbread complements the rich flavors of the gumbo perfectly.
• On a Cold Day: This dish shines bright during winter gatherings or cozy nights in, making it a perfect comfort food.
• For Celebrations: Serve Chicken Gumbo at family gatherings, holidays, or Mardi Gras celebrations for a festive touch.
• Garnish: Top each bowl with additional green onions and a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
• With Side Salads: Pair with a simple green salad dressed lightly with vinaigrette to cut the richness of the gumbo.

FAQ

Conclusion

The wonderful thing about Chicken Gumbo is how it beautifully combines flavors and textures, making it a dish that brings people together. It’s more than just a recipe; it’s an experience steeped in tradition and love. I encourage you to give it a try; you won’t regret it! This dish is perfect for cozy nights, family gatherings, or whenever you’re craving something hearty and comforting.

Chicken Gumbo

The ultimate comfort food, Chicken Gumbo combines tender chicken and savory sausage in a rich, flavorful broth. Perfect for chilly nights, it's an easy weeknight dinner that will warm your heart and soul. Make it tonight for a satisfying meal!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 2 hours hrs

Total Time 2 hours hrs 20 minutes mins

Course Dinner

Cuisine American

Servings 8 servings

Calories 420 kcal

Equipment

• Frying Pan
• Whisk
• Blender
• Oven
• Peeler
• Large Pot
• Saucepan
• Chef's Knife
• Wooden Spoon

Ingredients

  

• 1 pound Andouille sausage Cut into 1/4-inch slices.
• 4 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1/4 cup vegetable oil
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 medium onion Peeled and chopped (about 1 cup).
• 1 small green bell pepper Stemmed, seeded, and chopped (about ½ cup).
• 1 rib celery Chopped (about ½ cup).
• 2 quarts chicken broth
• 3 cloves garlic Minced.
• 2 teaspoons Creole seasoning
• 2 pieces bay leaves
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme (or 1 teaspoon fresh).
• to taste hot sauce
• 1/4 cup green onions Chopped (white and green parts).
• 2 tablespoons minced fresh parsley
• to serve hot cooked rice For serving.

Instructions

 

• In a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat, brown sausage, about 3 to 5 minutes. Remove from pan and place on a paper towel-lined plate. Reserve drippings in pan.
• Add chicken breast to Dutch oven, and cook until brown, about 5 minutes per side. Remove from pan and place on a paper towel-lined plate.
• Reduce heat to medium. Add the oil and flour to the drippings, whisk together to combine, and continue to cook roux over medium heat until dark brown, about 20 to 30 minutes, stirring constantly.
• Add onion, bell peppers, and celery. Cook until vegetables are tender, about 5 to 10 minutes. Add broth and stir until blended.
• Add chicken, garlic, Creole seasoning, bay leaves, and thyme. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer, chicken is fork-tender, about 1 hour.
• Return sausage to pan, and cook until sausage is thoroughly cooked, about 30 minutes.
• Remove chicken and bay leaves. Cut chicken into strips and return to gumbo. Season gumbo to taste with salt and additional hot sauce, as desired. Add green onions, and parsley. Serve over hot cooked rice.

Notes

• Andouille sausage: If desired, swap in kielbasa or another smoked sausage.
• Chicken broth: Feel free to use homemade chicken broth or your favorite store-bought brand.
• Homemade Creole Seasoning: In an airtight jar, add 3 Tbsp. paprika, 2 Tbsp. garlic powder, 2 Tbsp. salt, 1 Tbsp. freshly ground black pepper, 1 Tbsp. onion powder, 1 Tbsp. cayenne pepper, 1 Tbsp. crushed dry oregano, and 1 Tbsp. crushed dried thyme. Shake vigorously and store leftover seasoning in an airtight container in the pantry up to 6 months.
• Hot sauce: This is optional, but highly recommended if you enjoy spice.
• Yield: This Chicken Gumbo recipe makes eight hearty servings, ideal for enjoying over hot cooked rice.
• Storage: Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Freezer: Freeze gumbo in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator.

Keyword Chicken Gumbo recipe, comfort food gumbo, easy Chicken Gumbo, homemade gumbo

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Meet Layla Reed

I’m Layla! I am happiest when I’m cooking with ingredients that are fresh from the market and in season. I love creating rustic, wholesome dishes that truly celebrate the natural flavors of the produce. I worked alongside Romina to ensure this recipe feels grounded, authentic, and absolutely delicious. I hope it brings a taste of the season to your home!