Chicken Gumbo Soup: Hearty Cajun Stew Packed with Flavorful Goodness

Chicken Gumbo Soup: Hearty Cajun Stew Packed with Flavorful Goodness

This Chicken Gumbo Soup is a classic Cajun dish that combines tender chicken, smoky sausage, and a rich, flavorful broth that’s seasoned to perfection. It’s a true comfort food that warms the soul and delights the taste buds. Perfect for a cozy dinner, this gumbo is sure to become a family favorite.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound skinless, boneless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 pound smoked sausage, sliced
• 1/4 cup vegetable oil
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 1 green bell pepper, chopped
• 2 stalks celery, chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 6 cups chicken broth
• 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes
• 2 cups okra, sliced
• 2 teaspoons Cajun seasoning
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 2 bay leaves
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Cooked white rice, for serving
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• Green onions, sliced, for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a large, heavy-bottomed pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the flour and stir continuously to make a roux. Cook until the roux turns a dark brown color, about 15-20 minutes.
2. Add the chopped onion, bell pepper, and celery to the roux. Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
3. Add the chicken broth to the pot, stirring constantly to prevent lumps. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer.
4. Add the diced tomatoes, sliced okra, Cajun seasoning, dried thyme, and bay leaves. Stir to combine.
5. Add the chicken and sausage to the pot. Simmer the soup for 45 minutes to an hour, until the chicken is cooked through and the flavors have melded. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Remove the bay leaves and discard them. Stir in the chopped parsley.
7. Serve the gumbo hot over cooked white rice, garnished with sliced green onions.