Picture this: a chilly evening, the kind where you can see your breath in the air, and you’re craving something warm, something comforting. That’s when this easy one-pot chicken and shrimp gumbo comes into play—it’s like a cozy hug in a bowl. With its rich, smoky flavors mingling with tender chicken and succulent shrimp, it’s practically culinary magic—an edible masterpiece that makes you feel right at home with every spoonful.
Steps
- Begin by heating vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat. Gradually whisk in the flour, cooking until it turns a pale golden color, about 5 to 7 minutes.
- Add chopped bell peppers, onion, minced garlic, and dried oregano to the pot. Season with salt and pepper, and cook for another 5 to 7 minutes until the vegetables start to soften.
- Pour in the chicken broth and stir in the tomato paste, adding hot sauce if desired. Mix in the frozen okra, shredded chicken, and sliced sausage.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium. Add the shrimp and cook for 2 to 3 minutes until they are pink and cooked through.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Serve the gumbo hot, optionally with rice or cornbread on the side.
Ingredients
- 3 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 red bell peppers, chopped
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon hot sauce (optional)
- Coarse salt and ground pepper
- 1 package (10 ounces) frozen sliced okra
- 8 ounces smoked pre-cooked sausage (such as andouille or kielbasa), cut into 1/2 inch slices
- 4 cups shredded chicken
- 1/2 pound large shrimp
Nutritional Values
Calories: 2418kcal | Carbohydrates: 96g | Protein: 240g | Fat: 102g | Saturated Fat: 24g | Cholesterol: 810mg | Sodium: 4278mg | Fiber: 18g | Sugar: 24g
FAQ
- How do you make chicken and shrimp gumbo in just one pot?
- To prepare this quick chicken and shrimp gumbo, start by making a basic roux with oil and flour. Once it begins to brown, add the onions and peppers. Next, incorporate the cooked chicken, sausage, and chicken broth. Finally, add the shrimp and okra towards the end of the cooking process. Serve hot with rice or cornbread.
- Can I use different types of sausage in this gumbo recipe?
- Absolutely, you can substitute with any mild sausage you prefer. While andouille sausage is traditionally used in gumbo, a turkey kielbasa can be a less spicy alternative that’s suitable for kids.
- Is it okay to use frozen okra in this gumbo?
- Yes, using frozen pre-cut okra is a great time-saver and works well in this recipe. It doesn’t alter the taste significantly and makes preparation quicker.
- What are some serving suggestions for chicken and shrimp gumbo?
- This gumbo pairs wonderfully with cornbread or the traditional side of rice. Either option complements the dish beautifully and makes for a satisfying meal.
- Can I make any part of this gumbo ahead of time?
- Yes, you can prep the vegetables a day in advance, which can save you time when you’re ready to cook the gumbo.
Tips
- Use Pre-Cooked Ingredients: To save time, consider using a rotisserie chicken or leftover chicken for this recipe. Similarly, opt for pre-cooked sausage like turkey kielbasa if you want a milder taste that’s suitable for kids.
- Frozen Okra Saves Time: Using frozen, pre-cut okra can significantly reduce your prep time without sacrificing flavor, making it a convenient choice for this quick dish.
- Adjust Spice Levels: If you prefer a spicier gumbo, feel free to add hot sauce. However, if you’re cooking for kids or those who prefer milder flavors, you can omit the hot sauce altogether.
- Prepare Vegetables Ahead: To streamline the cooking process even further, you can prepare the vegetables a day in advance, making meal prep quicker and easier on the day of cooking.
Equipment
- Dutch Oven or Heavy-Bottomed Pot: Essential for making the gumbo in one pot.
- Whisk: Needed for making the roux by whisking flour and oil together.
