Name: Slow Cooker Cajun Chicken and Sausage Gumbo Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 6 h
Total time: 6 h 20 min
Cuisine: Cajun
Ingredients: 1 lb chicken thighs, chopped; 1/2 lb smoked sausage, sliced; 1 small onion, chopped; 1 bell pepper, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1/2 cup okra, sliced; 2 cups chicken broth; 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes; 2 tablespoons flour; 2 tablespoons oil; 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning; Salt and black pepper to taste

Description

A classic Southern gumbo made simple and flavorful using a slow cooker. This hearty dish combines tender chicken thighs, smoky sausage, fresh vegetables, and bold Cajun spices in a rich, savory broth thickened with a homemade roux for deep, authentic flavor.

Ingredients

Meat

1 lb chicken thighs, chopped
1/2 lb smoked sausage, sliced

Vegetables & Aromatics

1 small onion, chopped
1 bell pepper, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 cup okra, sliced

Liquids & Canned Goods

2 cups chicken broth
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes

Roux & Seasonings

2 tablespoons flour
2 tablespoons oil
1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
Salt and black pepper to taste

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Instructions

Make the roux: In a pan over medium heat, heat the oil and gradually stir in the flour. Cook, stirring constantly, until the roux turns a light brown color, which will give your gumbo a deep, nutty flavor.
Transfer roux to slow cooker: Carefully add the roux to the slow cooker, spreading it evenly across the bottom.
Add remaining ingredients: Add the chopped chicken thighs, sliced smoked sausage, chopped onion, bell pepper, minced garlic, chicken broth, diced tomatoes (with their juice), sliced okra, and Cajun seasoning to the slow cooker.
Combine and cook: Stir all ingredients together well in the slow cooker. Cover with the lid.
Slow cook: Cook on low for 6 to 7 hours, or on high for 3 to 4 hours, until the chicken is tender and the flavors meld beautifully.
Season to taste: Before serving, season with salt and freshly ground black pepper according to your preference.
Serve: Ladle the gumbo hot, optionally serving over steamed white rice for a complete meal.

Notes

The roux adds essential depth and a characteristic rich flavor; do not skip this step.
Adjust the spice level by varying the amount of Cajun seasoning to suit your taste.
For added seafood flavor, stir in peeled shrimp during the last 30 minutes of cooking.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 6 hours
Category: Main Course
Method: Slow Cooking
Cuisine: Cajun