This Low Carb Chicken Gumbo recipe is a delightful twist on the classic Cajun dish, offering all the rich, bold flavors you crave without the heavy carbs. A hearty mix of tender chicken, vibrant bell peppers, and warm spices comes together in a savory broth that warms the soul. Perfect for cozy nights or meal prep, this gumbo is both satisfying and nutritious, making it an excellent choice for those adhering to a low-carb lifestyle.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
You’ll love this low carb chicken gumbo not only for its incredible flavor but also for its ease of preparation. The dish combines a variety of spices that create a deep, complex flavor profile, while the use of chicken breast keeps it lean and healthy. It’s a one-pot meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights, allowing you to whip up a satisfying dish without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, at just a fraction of the carbs found in traditional gumbo, you can enjoy a comforting bowl without the guilt.
Tips and Tricks
- Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh parsley or green onions added at the end can elevate the dish with a pop of flavor and color.
- Brown the Chicken: Don’t skip browning the chicken before adding other ingredients; this step enhances the overall flavor through the Maillard reaction.
- Adjust Spice Levels: Feel free to add more cayenne or omit it entirely if you prefer a milder taste.
- Make it Thicker: If you like your gumbo thicker, you can add a tablespoon of xanthan gum or a low-carb thickener of your choice.
Make Ahead Tips
You can prepare the chicken and chop the vegetables a day in advance to save time. Store the chicken in an airtight container and the vegetables in the fridge. For optimal freshness, use the prepped ingredients within 48 hours. The gumbo itself can also be made ahead and reheated when needed.
Recipe Variations
- Seafood Twist: Swap the chicken for shrimp or crab for a delicious seafood gumbo.
- Vegetarian Version: Use vegetable broth and replace chicken with a mix of mushrooms and zucchini.
- Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce for extra heat.
How to Serve
Serve your low carb chicken gumbo hot, garnished with freshly chopped parsley or green onions for a pop of color. It pairs beautifully with a side of cauliflower rice for a complete meal. Present it in a deep bowl to showcase the vibrant colors of the dish, and consider adding a slice of lemon on the side for an extra burst of freshness.
Pairing Suggestions
For a drink pairing, consider a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc, which complements the spices beautifully. A refreshing iced tea or a low-carb cocktail, such as a gin and tonic with lime, also pairs well. As for sides, a simple green salad drizzled with olive oil and vinegar makes for a perfect complement to the rich flavors of the gumbo.
How to Store
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze the gumbo in freezer-safe bags or containers for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge, then warm on the stovetop until heated through, adding a splash of broth if necessary to restore the gumbo’s consistency.
Equipment Needed
- Large pot or Dutch oven: Essential for cooking the gumbo evenly.
- Wooden spoon: Perfect for stirring and scraping the bottom of the pot.
- Chopping board and knife: Needed for prepping your vegetables and chicken.
Dietary Adaptations
To make this recipe vegan, substitute chicken with tofu or tempeh, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. For a dairy-free option, ensure any added condiments or sides are also dairy-free. If nut allergies are a concern, simply avoid any nut-based thickeners or sauces.
Seasonal Adaptations
In the summer, use fresh, ripe tomatoes instead of canned for a fresher flavor. In the fall and winter, you can add root vegetables like turnips or radishes to enhance the dish and provide additional texture.
Recipe FAQs
- Can I use frozen chicken? Yes, just ensure to thaw it properly before cooking.
- What can I substitute for the bell peppers? Zucchini or green beans can be used for a different texture.
- How can I make it spicier? Add more cayenne pepper or some diced jalapeños to the mix.
Low Carb Chicken Gumbo
This Low Carb Chicken Gumbo recipe is a delightful twist on the classic Cajun dish, offering all the rich, bold flavors you crave without the heavy carbs.
Ingredients
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cubed
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 bay leaf
- Fresh parsley or green onions for garnish
Instructions
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion, bell peppers, and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes or until the vegetables are tender.
- Stir in the garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add the cubed chicken to the pot, cooking until the chicken is browned on all sides.
- Pour in the chicken broth and add the Cajun seasoning, thyme, cayenne pepper, Worcestershire sauce, bay leaf, salt, and pepper.
- Bring the gumbo to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover. Let it simmer for approximately 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Remove the bay leaf before serving and adjust seasoning as necessary.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or green onions.
Nutrition Information:
Yield: 4 Serving Size: 1Amount Per Serving: Calories: 298Total Fat: 9gSaturated Fat: 2gTrans Fat: 0gUnsaturated Fat: 6gCholesterol: 96mgSodium: 1104mgCarbohydrates: 13gFiber: 2gSugar: 4gProtein: 41g
Chickenrecipes.blog, occasionally offers nutritional information for recipes contained on this site. This information is provided as a courtesy and is an estimate only. This information comes from online calculators. Although allchickenrecipes.com attempts to provide accurate nutritional information, these figures are only estimates.
Final Thoughts
This low carb chicken gumbo is a fantastic way to enjoy a classic dish while sticking to your dietary goals. With its rich flavor and satisfying texture, it’s sure to become a beloved staple in your meal rotation. Whether serving it for dinner or preparing it for meal prep, this recipe offers comfort and taste without the carbs. So gather your ingredients, embrace the warmth of home-cooked comfort food, and enjoy every flavorful bite!
