Description
This Slow Cooker Gumbo recipe is a hearty, flavorful dish combining tender chicken thighs, smoked andouille sausage, fresh shrimp, and a medley of vegetables simmered in a rich, Cajun-spiced broth. Perfect for an effortless weeknight dinner, the slow cooker does the work while infusing deep, comforting flavors. Serve over fluffy rice for a satisfying Southern-inspired meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Roux (Optional)
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 1/4 cup + 2 tablespoons flour
Main Ingredients
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 onion, diced
- 3 celery stalks, diced
- 28 ounce can diced tomatoes
- 1 ½ pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs
- 1 package andouille sausage, sliced
- 1 pound raw shrimp (added at the end)
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic
- 2 cups cooked rice, for serving
Instructions
- Make the Roux (Optional): In a skillet over medium heat, melt the butter until starting to bubble. Add the flour and whisk continuously until the mixture turns a dark brown color, about 4 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside until ready to add to the slow cooker.
- Combine Ingredients: Into the slow cooker, add the diced red bell pepper, onion, celery, diced tomatoes, chicken thighs, sliced andouille sausage, Cajun seasoning, salt, thyme, chicken broth, minced garlic, and the prepared roux if using. Do not add the shrimp yet.
- Cook the Gumbo: Stir all ingredients to combine evenly. Cover and cook on LOW for 6 to 7 hours or HIGH for 3 to 4 hours, until chicken is tender and flavors are well blended.
- Add Shrimp: About 15 minutes before the cooking time ends, stir in the raw shrimp. You may leave the shells on for more flavor if desired. Cook until shrimp are pink and opaque, indicating they are fully cooked.
- Finish and Serve: Remove the chicken thighs and shred them into bite-sized pieces. Return shredded chicken to the gumbo and stir gently. Serve hot over a bed of cooked rice for a classic Southern meal.
Notes
- Making the roux is optional but adds a deeper flavor and thickens the gumbo.
- Leaving shrimp shells on enhances the flavor but is not mandatory.
- Cook times may vary depending on your slow cooker model; check doneness accordingly.
- Gumbo can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for longer storage.
- Adjust Cajun seasoning to taste for desired spice level.
