Slow Cooker Gumbo with Chicken and Sausage
Savor the Soul of the South with Flavorful Gumbo
Ever walked into someone’s home and instantly felt wrapped in a warm, delicious hug? That’s what slow cooker gumbo with chicken and sausage does for you! This recipe combines tender chicken, smoky sausage, and vibrant veggies, all bubbling away in a savory broth that fills your kitchen with rich Cajun aromas. What’s more? You don’t have to babysit it! Just set it, forget it, and let your slow cooker do the magic.
Why Make This Recipe
Why should you whip up this gumbo? Well, first off, it’s a one-pot wonder! Easy cleanup means you can kick back and relax after dinner instead of scrubbing pots. Secondly, it’s affordable—using simple ingredients makes this a great meal for the whole family. And who doesn’t love a dish that smiles back at you with its rich flavors? 😂
Ingredients
You don’t need fancy stuff—just these basics!
- 1 pound chicken thighs, boneless and skinless, cut into chunks
- 1 pound smoked sausage, sliced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
- 2 bay leaves
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups okra, sliced (fresh or frozen)
- Cooked rice for serving
- Chopped green onions and parsley for garnish
Directions
Let’s dive into the cooking process with these easy steps:
- In the slow cooker, combine the chicken, sausage, onion, bell pepper, celery, and garlic.
- Add the diced tomatoes, chicken broth, Cajun seasoning, bay leaves, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
- About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the okra.
- Remove the bay leaves before serving.
- Serve the gumbo over cooked rice and garnish with green onions and parsley.
How to Make Slow Cooker Gumbo with Chicken and Sausage (Overview)
Making this gumbo is a breeze! Just toss everything into your slow cooker, let it simmer away, and you’re golden. The key? Don’t skip the seasoning—those flavors develop beautifully over time. Give it a good stir halfway through for that perfectly mixed flavor. And hey, overcooked gumbo can get a little mushy, so keep an eye on your timer, okay? 😉
How to Serve Slow Cooker Gumbo with Chicken and Sausage
When you’re ready to dish out your gumbo, think about color and texture! Serve it steaming over a fluffy mound of rice, and for a pop of freshness, sprinkle fragrant green onions and parsley on top. You’ll not only have a comforting meal but also a feast for the eyes! The vibrant hues of the okra and bell pepper make every spoonful a colorful delight. 🌈
How to Store Slow Cooker Gumbo with Chicken and Sausage
Got leftovers? Lucky you! This gumbo keeps well in the fridge for about 3-4 days. Just make sure it’s in a sealed container. If you want to extend your enjoyment, freeze portions for up to three months. When you’re ready to dig in again, simply reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop—perfect for a quick meal!
Tips to Make Slow Cooker Gumbo with Chicken and Sausage
Here are a few insider tips to elevate your gumbo game:
- Watch the salt: The sausage brings some saltiness, so season cautiously.
- If you like it spicy, add a bit of cayenne pepper or a splash of hot sauce.
- Use fresh okra if you can; it has a better texture than frozen.
- You can sub chicken thighs with blackened shrimp for a twist!
- If you’ve got time, let the gumbo sit overnight—those flavors deepen and meld beautifully.
Variation
Want to shake things up? Try going vegan by swapping the chicken and sausage for hearty vegetables like mushrooms and lentils. You can also use chickpeas for that protein-packed goodness. Feeling adventurous? Try adding a can of coconut milk for a creamy, tropical twist!
FAQs
Can I make this gumbo ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare it a day in advance, and the flavors will get even better.
What can I serve with gumbo?
A simple side salad or some crusty French bread (for dunking!) pairs beautifully.
Can I freeze gumbo?
Definitely! Let it cool before transferring to freezer-safe containers. Just thaw and reheat when you’re ready to enjoy it again!
📌 Pin this recipe for your next cozy dinner night!
Gumbo
Ingrédients
Method
- In the slow cooker, combine the chicken, sausage, onion, bell pepper, celery, and garlic.
- Add the diced tomatoes, chicken broth, Cajun seasoning, bay leaves, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
- About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the okra.
- Remove the bay leaves before serving.
- Serve the gumbo over cooked rice and garnish with green onions and parsley.
