Description
This hearty Chicken, Sausage, and Shrimp Gumbo is a classic Louisiana dish packed with rich flavors from a deeply browned roux, Andouille sausage, tender chicken thighs, and succulent shrimp. Simmered with the holy trinity of onion, celery, and green pepper in a flavorful chicken stock, this gumbo offers a comforting and robust meal perfect for family gatherings or special occasions.
Ingredients
Roux
- 11 tablespoons vegetable oil (divided)
- 11 tablespoons flour
Vegetables & Aromatics
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 ribs celery, diced
- 1 large green pepper, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 5 green onions, sliced
- 1/4 cup flat leaf parsley, minced
- 2 large bay leaves
Protein
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken thighs
- 3/4 pound large shrimp, deveined and shells/tails removed
- 3/4 pound Andouille sausage, sliced
Liquids & Seasonings
- 5 cups low sodium chicken stock (plus more if needed)
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning (divided, plus more to taste)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon filé powder (optional, for serving)
Instructions
- Make the Roux: Heat a large Dutch oven or heavy pot over medium-low heat. Add 9 tablespoons of vegetable oil. Slowly whisk in the flour and cook, stirring frequently, until the roux reaches a dark brown color, about 40-45 minutes. Stir constantly to prevent burning and ensure even browning.
- Season and Sear Chicken: While the roux cooks, heat a large pan over medium heat. Pat the chicken thighs dry and season evenly with 1/2 tablespoon of Cajun seasoning. Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil to the pan.
- Cook Chicken Thighs: Place the chicken thighs in the pan and sear for 4-5 minutes per side until well browned. Remove from pan and let cool, then chop into bite-sized pieces.
- Sear Andouille Sausage: In the same pan, add the sliced Andouille sausage and cook until browned, about 4-5 minutes. Transfer to a plate and set aside.
- Deglaze Pan: Pour the low-sodium chicken stock into the pan; use a wooden spoon to scrape up all the browned bits from the pan. Reduce heat to low and keep warm.
- Cook Vegetables in Roux: Once the roux is dark brown, add the diced onions, green pepper, and celery to the pot. Stir and cook until vegetables soften, about 7-10 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 2-3 minutes until fragrant.
- Add Proteins and Simmer: Stir in the chopped chicken, Andouille sausage, chicken stock from the pan, bay leaves, and the remaining Cajun seasoning. Bring the mixture to a boil, scraping up any browned bits. Reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 45 minutes to develop flavors.
- Add Shrimp and Parsley: After 45 minutes, stir in the shrimp and minced parsley. Cook for 3-4 minutes until the shrimp are fully cooked and opaque. Remove the pot from heat.
- Final Seasoning and Serve: Taste the gumbo and adjust the seasoning with salt, pepper, and additional Cajun seasoning as needed. Serve hot over white rice, garnished with sliced green onions, fresh parsley, and a sprinkle of filé powder if desired.
Notes
- Watch the roux carefully and stir frequently to avoid burning, as this is crucial for the gumbo's deep flavor.
- Use low sodium chicken stock to control the saltiness of the gumbo.
- You can substitute Andouille sausage with smoked sausage if unavailable.
- Filé powder adds a unique earthy flavor and thickens the gumbo but is optional.
- Leftovers taste even better the next day as the flavors meld.