Chicken gumbo is a beloved comfort dish packed with rich flavors and hearty ingredients. This classic recipe is easy to follow and perfect for a cozy dinner at home. With a blend of spices vegetables and tender chicken, it is a dish that warms both the stomach and the soul.This recipe is simple to prepare, uses natural ingredients, and delivers authentic gumbo flavor. Below you will find the ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and tips to make your gumbo even more delicious.

Ingredients Needed

Chicken thighs boneless 500 grams
Onion chopped 1 medium
Bell peppers chopped 1 cup
Celery chopped 1 cup
Garlic minced 3 cloves
Olive oil 2 tablespoons
All-purpose flour 3 tablespoons
Chicken broth 4 cups
Canned diced tomatoes 400 grams
Okra sliced 1 cup
Cajun seasoning 2 teaspoons
Thyme 1 teaspoon
Bay leaves 2 leaves
Salt and black pepper to taste
Cooked rice for serving

Step by Step Instructions for Chicken Gumbo Recipe

Prepare the vegetables

Chop onion, bell peppers, celery, and garlic. Set aside.

Make the roux

In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add flour and stir constantly until it turns golden brown.

Cook the chicken

Add chicken thighs to the pot and brown slightly on all sides.

Add vegetables and spices

Add chopped onion, bell peppers, celery, and garlic. Stir for a few minutes. Then add Cajun seasoning, thyme, bay leaves, salt, and pepper.

Add broth and tomatoes

Pour in chicken broth and diced tomatoes. Stir to combine and bring to a gentle simmer.

Add okra and simmer

Add sliced okra and let the gumbo simmer for 25–30 minutes until the chicken is cooked and flavors meld together.

Serve

Remove bay leaves and serve gumbo hot over cooked rice.

Tips for Customizing the Recipe

You can easily adjust the spice level of this gumbo by adding more or less Cajun seasoning to suit your taste. Feel free to swap in vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms for extra variety and nutrition. For a richer, heartier flavor, try adding smoked sausage or shrimp. Taste the gumbo as it cooks and adjust the seasoning as needed. These simple tweaks allow you to customize the dish to your preference. With a few adjustments, you can make this gumbo perfectly suited to your family or guests.

Nutritional Information

This chicken gumbo is rich in protein and loaded with vitamins and minerals from fresh vegetables. Okra and bell peppers add fiber and antioxidants, supporting digestion and overall health. The roux provides a deep, savory flavor without overpowering the dish. Combined, these ingredients create a wholesome, hearty, and satisfying meal. Perfect for warming you up and keeping you full for hours, it is both nourishing and comforting.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this gumbo hot over freshly cooked white or brown rice for a comforting meal. Garnish with chopped green onions or parsley to add a pop of color and fresh flavor. Pair it with crusty bread or cornbread for a classic Southern touch. This dish is perfect for family dinners, cozy nights at home, or meal prep for the week. It is hearty, satisfying, and sure to please everyone at the table. Enjoy it as a warming, flavorful meal any time.