This recipe provides a healthier twist to the traditional gumbo by using lean chicken and turkey sausage as the protein sources. Packed with nutritious vegetables and flavorful spices, this slow cooker gumbo is a hearty and comforting meal for any occasion. The slow cooking process allows the flavors to develop and meld together, resulting in a deliciously satisfying dish. With a prep time of just 20 minutes and 6 hours of cooking in the slow cooker, this gumbo recipe is simple and convenient. Enjoy a bowl of this warm and spicy gumbo with your family and friends!
Ingredients
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 12 ounces turkey sausage, sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (15 ounces) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (8 ounces) tomato sauce
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
- 2 teaspoons Cajun seasoning
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 3 tablespoons canola oil
- Cooked white rice, for serving
- Chopped green onions, for garnish
Directions
- In a large skillet, heat the canola oil over medium heat.
- Add the flour and cook, stirring constantly, until the mixture turns dark brown (about 5-7 minutes). This is the roux.
- Transfer the roux to the slow cooker.
- Add the chicken, turkey sausage, bell pepper, onion, celery, garlic, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, chicken broth, Worcestershire sauce, Cajun seasoning, thyme, oregano, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper to the slow cooker.
- Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
- Cover the slow cooker and cook on low heat for 6 hours.
- Serve the gumbo over cooked white rice.
- Garnish with chopped green onions.
- Enjoy!
Interesting Facts
Gumbo is a traditional dish that originated in Louisiana and is influenced by African, French, and Spanish cuisines. It is typically thickened with a roux.
The word 'gumbo' is derived from a West African word for okra, which is one of the main ingredients in traditional gumbo recipes.
Gumbo is often served with a side of cornbread or French bread for dipping and sopping up the flavorful sauce.
This healthier version of gumbo reduces the fat content by using lean chicken and turkey sausage, making it a guilt-free option.
The slow cooking process allows the flavors to develop and intensify, resulting in a rich and flavorful gumbo.