Chicken Gumbo Soup Recipe With Goodness Of Rich Ingredient Flavors

Every bowl of Chicken Gumbo Soup tells a story. Dive into China’s heart with each sip. A symphony of flavors dances in this age-old concoction. Tender chicken melds with aromatic herbs. Fresh vegetables bring vibrant colors and crunch. Each ingredient offers a healing touch.

Fresh vegetables, tender chicken, and aromatic spices meld beautifully. This isn’t just a dish; it’s an experience. Dive into a culinary journey, exploring the depths of genuine Southern comfort. 

Chicken Gumbo Soup fills the room with joy, whether it’s a chilly evening or a gathering of loved ones. Let’s embark on this flavorful voyage together. Prepare to be captivated.

What Is Chicken Gumbo Soup Recipe?

Start with a roux of flour and oil. Add chopped onions, bell peppers, and celery. Sauté until soft. Toss in diced chicken and sliced andouille sausage. Sprinkle with Creole seasoning. Pour in chicken broth and stir. 

Add okra and a bay leaf. Simmer until flavors meld and chicken cooks thoroughly. Serve over cooked rice. Garnish with chopped green onions and a dash of fine powder. Enjoy a Southern masterpiece in a bowl.

Ingredient List 

Ingredient Tips

• Water Quality: Use filtered water for a cleaner taste.
• Garlic Boost: Fresh garlic can replace garlic powder for a richer flavor.
• Heat Level: Adjust hot pepper sauce based on your spice tolerance.
• Fresh vs. Frozen: Fresh okra, when in season, enhances flavor and texture.
• Mushroom Variety: Experiment with different types like shiitake or cremini for varied depths.
• Rice Options: Brown rice can be a healthier substitute for wild rice.
• Chicken Freshness: Ensure the chicken is fresh; it’s the star ingredient.
• Pasta Choices: You can swap rotini with penne or fusilli for fun.
• Seasoning Wisdom: Always season gradually; you can add but can’t remove.
• Green Onions: Use white and green parts to add flavor and color.

Can You Vary The Recipe With Other Ingredients? 

• Keto: Omit the rice and pasta, and boost the fat content with more oil or butter. Consider using low-carb vegetables like cauliflower.
• Paleo: Exclude the pasta. Replace it with more veggies or use spiralized zucchini as a noodle substitute. Ensure hot pepper sauce has no additives.
• Gluten-Free: Be cautious with the hot pepper sauce and any store-bought broths. Some may contain gluten. Use gluten-free pasta, or skip it entirely.
• Whole30: Skip the rice, pasta, and any sugar-based hot sauces. Add in more vegetables or some sweet potatoes.
• Vegetarian/Vegan: Substitute the chicken with firm tofu or tempeh. For a deeper umami flavor, add more mushrooms or consider using jackfruit.

Recipe Directions 

• Add garlic powder, hot pepper sauce, carrots, and mushrooms to boil water. Cook for 5 minutes.
• Mix in okra, wild rice, and chicken. Simmer on low for 3 hours.
• Stir in spiral pasta. Cook for 10 more minutes.
• Season with salt and pepper.
• Serve hot with green onion garnish.

Variations, Add-Ons, And Toppings

Variations

• Seafood Gumbo: Replace chicken with shrimp, crab, and oysters for a coastal touch.
• Vegetarian Gumbo: Use tofu, tempeh, or jackfruit instead of chicken.

Add-Ons

• Andouille Sausage: Slice and add for a smoky, meaty depth.
• Bell Peppers: Incorporate for color and mild sweetness.
• Tomatoes: Fresh or canned, they lend a tangy profile.

Toppings

• File Powder: Sprinkle for added thickness and unique flavor.
• Fresh Parsley: For a herby touch and vibrant color.
• Lemon Wedges: A squeeze right before eating enhances the flavors.
• Hot Sauce: For those craving extra heat.

Scaling The Recipe 

• Ingredient Proportion: To scale up or down, maintain the same proportion of ingredients. For instance, doubling the recipe means doubling all the ingredients.
• Pot Size: Ensure your pot or cooking vessel is large enough to accommodate the increased volume when scaling up. Conversely, a smaller pot may be better when scaling down.
• Cooking Time: While ingredient amounts change, cooking time might not double or halve linearly. Monitor closely to avoid overcooking or undercooking.
• Taste Test: Especially when increasing quantities, taste frequently. Seasonings need adjustments.

What Is Used For Garnishing Chicken Gumbo Soup Recipe?

• Green Onions: Thinly sliced green onions add a fresh bite and vibrant color, enhancing the visual appeal of the soup.
• Parsley: Freshly chopped parsley provides a herby aroma and a burst of green that contrasts the rich, deep hues of the gumbo.
• Lemon Wedges: A squeeze of lemon before eating elevates the soup’s flavors, offering a tangy contrast.
• File Powder: A sprinkle thickens the soup slightly and imparts a unique, earthy taste indigenous to gumbo.
• Red Pepper Flakes: A dash of these can heighten the soup’s spiciness for those who prefer an extra kick.

Can I Make Chicken Gumbo Soup Recipe In A Slow Cooker Or Instant Pot?

Slow Cooker

• After sautéing vegetables and browning the chicken in a skillet, transfer all ingredients to the slow cooker. 
• Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. 
• Add the spiral pasta in the last 30 minutes of cooking to ensure it doesn’t turn mushy. This method allows flavors to meld beautifully.

Instant Pot

• Using the sauté function, cook vegetables and brown chicken. 
• Add other ingredients except for the pasta. Seal and pressure cook on high for 20 minutes. 
• Release pressure, open the lid, switch to sauté, and add the pasta until cooked. This method significantly reduces cooking time.

Can I Use Store Bought Broth, Or Should I Make My Own? 

Store-Bought Broth

• Convenience: It’s quick and perfect for those with tight schedules.
• Consistency: You’ll get a predictable flavor profile each time.
• Variety: Available in various types, like low-sodium or organic, catering to specific dietary needs.

Homemade Broth

• Flavor Depth: You can achieve a rich, deep flavor by controlling ingredients and simmering time.
• No Additives: It’s natural and free from preservatives and artificial flavors.
• Cost-effective: It’s budget-friendly and made from kitchen scraps, like vegetable peels and chicken bones.

Can I Use Different Types Of Meat/Fish/Pasta/Vegetables For The Soup?

Meat/Fish

• Andouille Sausage: Introduces a smoky flavor.
• Shrimp: Adds a coastal touch; ensures they’re cooked just right.
• Crab or Oysters: These elevate the soup to a seafood gumbo.

Pasta

• Penne or Fusilli: Hold well in soupy textures.
• Gluten-free: Ideal for those with dietary restrictions.

Vegetables

• Bell Peppers: Bring color and sweetness.
• Celery: Offers a crunchy texture.
• Tomatoes: Lend a tangy profile.

Success Tips-Tips And Tricks For Making The Recipe 

Prepping Tips

• Mise en Place: Organize and measure ingredients before starting.
• Freshness: Use fresh herbs and vegetables for vibrant flavors.
• Stock/Broth: A quality base, whether homemade or store-bought, is key.
• Blending: For smooth soups, ensure even chopping for uniform cooking.

Cooking Time Tips

• Low & Slow: Cooking on a low simmer extracts flavors without overcooking ingredients.
• Skim: Regularly skim off impurities or excess oil that rises.
• Taste: Regularly taste and adjust seasonings.
• Noodles/Pasta: Add them last to prevent overcooking.
• Rest: Let soups sit after cooking; flavors often deepen over time.

Nutritional Values 

The Chicken Gumbo Soup isn’t just a treat for the taste buds; it’s also nutritionally robust. Each serving delivers essential proteins, vitamins, and minerals, making it a wholesome choice that marries taste with health.

What Are The Total Calories In The Soup?

Considering the mentioned ingredients and their typical quantities, a rough estimate might range from 200-250 calories per serving, but this is a ballpark figure. For an accurate calorie count, you’d need to utilize nutrition calculation tools or software, inputting the exact amount of each ingredient.

Dietary Restrictions Of The Chinese Chicken Soup

• Meat-Based: Unsuitable for vegetarians or vegans due to chicken and chicken broth.
• Gluten: Ramen noodles typically contain gluten, making it unfit for those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivities.
• Soy: The soy sauce can be problematic for those allergic to soy.
• Sugar: Diabetics or those on sugar-restrictive diets should take note.
• High Sodium: Due to soy sauce and broth, which can be of concern for those monitoring salt intake.

Health Benefits Of Chinese Chicken Soup

• Immunity Boost: Chicken broth is often believed to bolster the immune system, aiding in cold recovery.
• Digestion Aid: Ginger promotes healthy digestion and can alleviate gastrointestinal irritation.
• Anti-inflammatory: Turmeric contains curcumin, which is known for its anti-inflammatory properties.
• Nutrient-Rich: Chicken provides protein essential for muscle health, while veggies offer vitamins and minerals.
• Hydration: The broth helps in hydration, which is especially vital when sick.

Nutrition Table 

How Can I Make Chicken Gumbo Soup Recipe Lower In Sodium?

• Homemade Broth: Opt for homemade chicken broth without added salt. Store-bought often contains high sodium levels.
• Limit Added Salt: Use minimal salt while cooking. Allow diners to season their bowls to taste.
• Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh vegetables instead of canned or frozen, which can contain added salt.
• Spices & Herbs: Enhance flavor with sodium-free spices like paprika, black pepper, garlic powder, or fresh herbs like thyme and oregano.
• Low-Sodium Products: If using store-bought ingredients, look for “low-sodium” or “no-salt-added” versions.

How Can I Make Chicken Gumbo Soup Recipe Lower In Sugar?

• Broth Selection: Opt for homemade or unsweetened store-bought broths. Some commercial varieties may contain added sugars.
• Natural Vegetables: Use fresh vegetables, avoiding any canned versions that might be preserved in syrup or added sugars.
• Check Seasonings: Ensure any added sauces, like hot pepper sauce, don’t have sugar as a primary ingredient.
• Avoid Sweeteners: Skip optional ingredients like sweet corn that might sweeten the soup.
• Read Labels: Always read labels to check for hidden sugars when buying ingredients.

How To Serve The Chicken Gumbo Soup Recipe At Its Best?

• Fresh & Hot: Serve immediately after cooking to enjoy its full flavor and warmth.
• Bowl Selection: Use wide, shallow bowls to showcase the rich textures and vibrant ingredients.
• Garnish: Top with freshly sliced green onions, a sprinkle of parsley, or a dash of file powder for an authentic touch.
• Accompaniments: Offer crusty bread or a side of cornbread to soak up the broth.
• Adjustments: Set aside small dishes of hot sauce, lemon wedges, or extra herbs, allowing guests to customize their bowls.

Perfect Side Dishes To Complement Chicken Gumbo Soup Recipe

• Cornbread: This Southern classic pairs beautifully, offering a sweet contrast to the spicy gumbo.
• Crusty French Baguette: Ideal for dipping and soaking up the flavorful broth.
• Coleslaw: Its crunchy texture and tangy dressing provide a refreshing counterpoint.
• Dirty Rice: A flavorful rice dish with sautéed veggies and sometimes meat, adding depth to the meal.
• Hush Puppies: Deep-fried cornmeal dough balls, crispy outside and soft inside.
• Collard Greens: Sautéed with garlic and a touch of vinegar, these greens balance the soup’s richness.

How Long Can We Store The Chicken Gumbo Soup?

• Refrigeration: Transfer the soup to airtight containers after cooling to room temperature. It will stay fresh for 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
• Freezing: For longer storage, freeze the gumbo. Pour into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some space for expansion. Properly stored, it can last 4-6 months.
• Reheating: Always reheat only the amount you plan to consume. If refrigerated, warm on the stove until it reaches a simmer. If frozen, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Can I Make Soup In Advance?

• Flavor Development: Soups often taste better the next day after flavors meld.
• Convenience: To reduce last-minute cooking stress, prepare a day or two before a gathering.
• Storage: After cooking, cool to room temperature. Store in airtight containers in the refrigerator.
• Reheating: When ready to serve, slowly reheat on the stove. If it thickens, add a little broth or water.
• Freezing: For longer preparation, freeze the soup, then thaw and reheat when needed.

What Can We Do With Leftovers? 

• Gumbo Pasta: Toss with cooked pasta for a hearty gumbo-inspired dish.
• Gumbo Casserole: Layer with rice in a baking dish, top with cheese, and bake until golden.
• Gumbo Tacos: Fill tortillas with a thickened version of the gumbo, adding lettuce and sour cream.
• Gumbo Pot Pie: Topped with a pie crust or puff pastry as a filling for pot pies.
• Gumbo-Stuffed Peppers: Fill hollowed bell peppers with thick gumbo, and bake until peppers soften.
• Gumbo Grains: Mix with quinoa or rice for a flavorful side dish.

Special Tools And Equipment Needed

• Large Pot or Dutch Oven: Ensures even heat distribution and ample ingredient space.
• Sharp Knife: For precise and safe chopping of vegetables and chicken.
• Cutting Board: Preferably two – one for raw chicken and another for vegetables, to prevent cross-contamination.
• Wooden Spoon: Ideal for stirring and preventing ingredients from sticking to the pot’s base.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: For accurate ingredient quantities.
• Strainer: Useful if rinsing canned vegetables or if homemade broth needs filtering.
• Ladle: For serving the soup.
• Thermometer: To ensure the chicken is cooked safely to the correct temperature.
• Storage Containers: For leftovers or prepped ingredients.
• Timer: To track cooking times accurately.

Frequently Asked Questions 

Can I Replace The Chicken With Other Meats Like Sausage Or Shrimp?

Yes! Traditional gumbo often includes andouille sausage or seafood like shrimp. You can replace the chicken entirely or combine it with your preferred meat or seafood for added depth.

I Don’t Have Okra. Can I Still Make Gumbo?

Absolutely. While okra is a thickener with a unique flavor, you can use file powder or roux as alternative thickeners if okra is unavailable.

What Is File Powder, And Do I Need It?

File powder is ground sassafras leaves commonly used in gumbo as a thickener and flavor enhancer. It’s optional but adds authenticity and a slightly earthy flavor.

My Gumbo Looks Too Thin. How Can I Thicken It?

If your gumbo is thinner than desired, you can create a roux (a mixture of fat and flour) separately and slowly incorporate it into the soup, simmering until the desired consistency is achieved.

Can I Make A Vegetarian Or Vegan Version Of Chicken Gumbo Soup?

Definitely! Replace chicken with hearty vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and eggplant. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth, and ensure any additional ingredients like hot sauce are vegan-friendly.

Chicken Gumbo Soup Recipe With Goodness Of Rich Ingredient Flavors

5 from 2 votes

Recipe by Lana Rivera Course: Soup Recipes

Servings

4

servings

Prep time

15

minutes

Cooking time

3

hours 

50

minutes

Calories

220

kcal

Savor the warmth and richness of this Chicken Gumbo Soup. Brimming with tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and aromatic spices, every spoonful promises a symphony of flavors, making it a delightful treat for any meal.

Ingredients

• Water

• Garlic powder

• Hot pepper sauce

• Carrots (sliced thin)

• Fresh mushrooms

• Frozen okra (thawed and sliced)

• Uncooked wild rice

• Skinless, boneless chicken breast (cut into cubes)

• Uncooked rotini pasta

• Salt

• Ground black pepper

• Green onions (thinly sliced)

Step-By-Step Directions 

• Preparation Steps
  Gather all ingredients: water, garlic powder, hot pepper sauce, carrots, mushrooms, okra, wild rice, chicken, spiral pasta, salt, pepper, and green onions.
  Clean and slice carrots and mushrooms. Cube the chicken breast.
  Thaw and slice the frozen okra.
• Cooking
  In a large pot, bring the water to a boil.
  Once boiling, stir in the garlic powder and hot pepper sauce.
  Add sliced carrots and mushrooms to the pot and cook for 5 minutes.
• Blending
  Introduce the sliced okra, wild rice, and chicken cubes.
  Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for three hours. This allows the flavors to meld together and the chicken to become tender.
• Final Touches
  After the simmering period, add the spiral pasta to the pot. Cook it for an additional 10 minutes until the pasta is al dente.
  Season the soup with salt and pepper according to your preference.
• Serving
  Pour the soup into bowls while it’s still hot.
  Garnish with thinly sliced green onions for fresh flavor and a pop of color.

Recipe Video

https://youtu.be/ja0KQpfONks?si=h0-cU8CPgM_p8_c9

Notes

• For a thicker consistency, consider adding a roux or file powder.
• If the soup feels too spicy, a splash of lemon juice can mellow down the heat.
• This recipe is adaptable. Feel free to add or omit ingredients based on preference.
• Always ensure the chicken is thoroughly cooked to a safe temperature before serving.
• For a smoky flavor, consider adding smoked paprika or andouille sausage.

• Author
• Recent Posts

Lana Rivera

Lana is an experienced soup specialist known for her dedication to crafting delicious soup recipes. Certified by Auguste Escoffier School of Culinary Arts under the Holistic Nutrition & Wellness Program, her comprehensive and versatile soup-making expertise caters to a global audience of soup enthusiasts. Lana's passion for soups originated during her college years amidst a busy student lifestyle. Appearing in TV programs and with ebooks available, she offers convenient meal prepping. Soup Chick is a testament to her commitment to fostering a vibrant and engaging soup-loving community, which made her join Soup Chick to pursue her passion.

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