Simple Chicken Gumbo

Experience the comforting flavors of the South with this *Simple Chicken Gumbo*, a warm and hearty one-pot meal perfect for weeknight dinners or cozy gatherings. Packed with tender, seasoned chicken thighs, a medley of fresh vegetables including onions, celery, and green bell pepper, and the option of adding okra for authentic flair, this classic Cajun-inspired dish delivers bold, smoky flavors in every bite. The secret lies in the rich, nutty roux, carefully browned to perfection, and a flavorful broth infused with Cajun seasoning and aromatic bay leaves. Ready in just one hour, this gumbo is served best over fluffy white rice, making it a filling and delicious dish that’s sure to please. Whether you're a gumbo enthusiast or a first-timer, this straightforward recipe ensures effortless success! Perfect for those searching for "easy gumbo recipes" or "chicken gumbo with rice," it’s a must-try addition to your dinner rotation.

Nutriscore Rating: 72/100

Prep Time:15 mins

Cook Time:45 mins

Total Time:60 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
• 3 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 medium yellow onion, diced
• 1 medium green bell pepper, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 14-ounce can canned diced tomatoes
• 1 cup okra, sliced (optional)
• 1 tablespoon cajun seasoning
• 2 bay leaves
• 4 cups cooked white rice (optional, for serving)

Directions

Step 1

Season the chicken thighs with salt and black pepper on both sides.

Step 2

In a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot, heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken thighs and sear for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove the chicken and set it aside.

Step 3

Lower the heat to medium and add the remaining 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil to the pot. Sprinkle in the flour and stir constantly to make a roux. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring, until the roux is golden brown and smells nutty.

Step 4

Add the diced onion, green bell pepper, celery, and minced garlic to the roux. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened.

Step 5

Pour in the chicken broth and stir well to combine. Add the canned diced tomatoes, okra (if using), cajun seasoning, and bay leaves.

Step 6

Return the seared chicken thighs to the pot, submerging them in the broth. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for 30 minutes.

Step 7

Remove the cooked chicken thighs from the pot and shred the meat using two forks. Discard any excess fat or cartilage. Return the shredded chicken to the gumbo.

Step 8

Taste the gumbo and adjust the seasoning with additional salt or cajun seasoning if needed.

Step 9

Serve the gumbo hot, ladled over cooked white rice if desired. Enjoy your hearty bowl of chicken gumbo!

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(3314.8g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	2854.9

Total Fat 104.6g	0%
Saturated Fat 22.9g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 28.6g
Cholesterol 574.9mg	0%
Sodium 7662.2mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 308.7g	0%
Dietary Fiber 24.9g	0%
Total Sugars 27.7g
Protein 166.2g	0%

Vitamin D 31.8IU	0%
Calcium 607.0mg	0%
Iron 22.3mg	0%
Potassium 4374.8mg	0%

*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.

Source of Calories

Fat: 33.1%

Protein: 23.4%

Carbs: 43.5%