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Classic Chicken and Shrimp Gumbo Soup

A rich and hearty Southern comfort food featuring tender chicken and succulent shrimp in a flavorful broth thickened with roux.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Course Main
Cuisine Southern
Servings 6 servings
Calories 350 kcal

Equipment

  • Large Pot
  • Whisk
  • Cutting Board
  • Knife

Ingredients
  

Protein

  • 1 pound Boneless, Skinless Chicken Thighs Adds tenderness and depth to the soup.
  • 1 pound Large Shrimp Peeled and deveined for sweetness and succulence.

Vegetables

  • 1 medium Onion Finely chopped for sweetness and savory base.
  • 1 medium Green Bell Pepper Diced for crunch and slight bitterness.
  • 1 stalk Celery Finely chopped for refreshing crunch.
  • 4 cloves Garlic Minced for aromatic flavor.

Broth

  • 6 cups Low-Sodium Vegetable Broth Base of the soup providing moisture and flavor.

Roux

  • 1/2 cup Vegetable Oil Used to make the roux.
  • 1/2 cup Flour Combined with oil to thicken the gumbo.

Additional Ingredients

  • 1 cup Okra Sliced fresh or frozen for unique texture.
  • 2 leaves Bay Leaves Infuses herbal notes into the soup.
  • 1 teaspoon Cayenne Pepper Provides mild heat; adjust to taste.
  • 1 teaspoon Dried Thyme Adds earthy, herbal undertones.

Seasonings

  • Salt and Pepper To taste for flavor enhancement.

Garnish

  • Chopped Green Onions For garnish, adds freshness.

Instructions
 

  • 1. Prepare the roux by heating vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat. Gradually whisk in flour, stirring constantly for 15-20 minutes until deep brown.
  • 2. Add chopped onion, green bell pepper, celery, and minced garlic to the pot. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until tender and fragrant.
  • 3. Gradually pour in vegetable broth while stirring to prevent lumps. Bring to a gentle simmer.
  • 4. Add bay leaves, thyme, and cayenne pepper. Simmer for 10 minutes to deepen flavors.
  • 5. Season chicken thighs with salt and pepper, add to the pot, and cook for 20 minutes until tender.
  • 6. Remove chicken, shred it, and return to the pot.
  • 7. Add okra and shrimp, simmer for an additional 5-7 minutes until shrimp are pink.
  • 8. Adjust seasoning, remove bay leaves, and serve hot garnished with green onions.

Notes

For variations, consider adding jalapeños for spice, different proteins, or seasonal vegetables.
Keyword Comfort Food, Soup