Instant Pot Louisiana Gumbo with Chicken and Shrimp

This Instant Pot Louisiana Gumbo with Chicken and Shrimp is a delightful dish that brings the heart and soul of New Orleans right into your home. Perfect for busy weeknights or festive gatherings, this gumbo is a true crowd-pleaser. With its robust flavors and comforting textures, it showcases tender chicken, succulent shrimp, and the unique taste of Cajun spices—all ready in a fraction of the time it would take to make traditionally.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Cooking Time: Thanks to the Instant Pot, you can enjoy this flavorful gumbo in just about an hour.
• Bold Flavors: Packed with rich spices and a deep roux, each bite bursts with authentic Creole taste.
• One-Pot Wonder: Minimal cleanup is required since everything cooks in one pot, making it perfect for busy cooks.
• Customizable Ingredients: Feel free to adjust ingredients based on what you have on hand or personal preferences.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: This gumbo stores well, making it ideal for meal prep or leftovers throughout the week.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools can make all the difference when preparing this delicious gumbo. Here’s what you’ll need:

Essential Kitchen Tools

• Instant Pot
• Wooden spoon
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife

Why These Tools Matter

• Instant Pot: Speeds up cooking time significantly while ensuring tender meat and flavor infusion.
• Wooden Spoon: Ideal for stirring without scratching your pot’s surface, crucial for making a smooth roux.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: Ensures accurate ingredient quantities for balanced flavors in your gumbo.

Ingredients

For the Gumbo Base

• 1 1/2 cups water
• 1 cup long grain enriched white rice (Rinsed)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (Divided into 2 portions.)
• 10 oz chicken chicken chicken chicken andouille sausage link (Sliced into pieces)
• 4 tablespoons butter
• 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 pound skinless chicken breasts

Vegetables and Aromatics

• 1 cup chopped green peppers
• 1 cup chopped celery
• 1 cup chopped onion (I use white onion.)
• 1-2 cups frozen chopped okra
• 3 garlic cloves

Broth and Seasoning

• 1 tablespoon Better Than Bouillon Chicken Base (Optional)
• 24 oz chicken broth (3 cups)
• 1/2 cup diced tomatoes (optional)
• 1 pound raw shrimp
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 1 teaspoon oregano
• 1 tablespoon Creole Seasoning (I used Tony Chachere)
• 1/2 teaspoon thyme
• 1 tablespoon worcestershire sauce
• Salt and pepper to taste

How to Make Instant Pot Louisiana Gumbo with Chicken and Shrimp

Step 1: Prepare the Roux

In your Instant Pot, select the sauté function. Add 2 tablespoons of olive oil along with 4 tablespoons of butter. Once melted, whisk in 4 tablespoons of flour until smooth. Cook for about 5–7 minutes until the mixture turns a deep brown color.

Step 2: Add the Vegetables

Add chopped green peppers, celery, onions, and minced garlic to the roux. Stir well to combine. Cook for another 3–5 minutes until vegetables are softened.

Step 3: Incorporate Sausage and Chicken

Mix in sliced chicken sausage and skinless chicken breasts. Stir until everything is well-coated with the roux.

Step 4: Add Broth and Seasonings

Pour in water and chicken broth. If you’re using it, add the Better Than Bouillon Chicken Base now. Mix in diced tomatoes (if using), bay leaf, basil, cayenne pepper, oregano, Creole seasoning, thyme, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper.

Step 5: Cook Under Pressure

Close the lid of your Instant Pot securely. Set it to cook on high pressure for 25 minutes. Once done, allow natural pressure release for about 10 minutes before manually releasing any remaining pressure.

Step 6: Finish with Shrimp

After opening the lid, stir in raw shrimp. Close the lid again and let sit for about 5 minutes until shrimp are cooked through.

Step 7: Serve

Remove bay leaf before serving over fluffy rice. Enjoy your Instant Pot Louisiana Gumbo with Chicken and Shrimp!

How to Serve Instant Pot Louisiana Gumbo with Chicken and Shrimp

Serving your Instant Pot Louisiana Gumbo with Chicken and Shrimp can elevate the dish to new heights. The right accompaniments enhance its rich flavors and create a fulfilling meal experience.

With Fluffy Rice

• Serve the gumbo over a bed of fluffy white rice to soak up the savory broth, enhancing each bite with a perfect balance of texture.

With Fresh Breads

• Offer crusty French bread or cornbread on the side. These options are excellent for dipping into the gumbo, making every spoonful even more enjoyable.

With Sliced Avocado

• Add sliced avocado for a creamy, fresh contrast that complements the spicy kick of the gumbo beautifully.

With Green Salad

• A simple mixed green salad provides a refreshing crunch. Toss it with a light vinaigrette to balance the hearty gumbo.

With Pickled Vegetables

• Serve with pickled vegetables, such as okra or carrots, which add a tangy crunch that pairs well with the warm flavors of the dish.

With Hot Sauce

• Offer a selection of hot sauces for those who enjoy an extra kick. This allows guests to customize their heat level according to personal preference.

How to Perfect Instant Pot Louisiana Gumbo with Chicken and Shrimp

To achieve the best results with your Instant Pot Louisiana Gumbo, consider these helpful tips:

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs will enhance the overall flavor of the gumbo, making it taste vibrant and lively.
• Adjust Spices: If you prefer more heat, feel free to increase the amount of cayenne pepper or Creole seasoning for a spicier dish.
• Sauté Properly: Take your time when sautéing vegetables and making the roux. A deep color in your roux adds depth and richness to your gumbo.
• Let It Rest: Allowing your gumbo to sit for a few minutes after cooking can help meld flavors together, resulting in an even tastier dish.
• Add Protein Last: To prevent overcooking, add shrimp towards the end of cooking time, ensuring they remain tender and juicy.
• Store Correctly: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors often improve after sitting overnight!

Best Side Dishes for Instant Pot Louisiana Gumbo with Chicken and Shrimp

Pairing side dishes with your gumbo can enhance its flavors and make it even more satisfying. Here are some excellent options:

1. Crusty French Bread: Perfect for dipping into the gumbo; its texture complements the dish wonderfully.
2. Cornbread: A classic Southern side that adds a touch of sweetness and is great for soaking up broth.
3. Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw offers a cool contrast to the warm, spicy gumbo while adding freshness to your meal.
4. Fried Green Tomatoes: Crispy fried green tomatoes bring a delightful crunch that pairs beautifully with the soft textures of gumbo.
5. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes offer comfort and can be an unexpected but delicious pairing with spicy gumbo.
6. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables provide added nutrients and their caramelized sweetness balances out spiciness nicely.
7. Rice Pilaf: Flavored rice pilaf enhances the meal’s complexity without overshadowing the bold flavors of your gumbo.
8. Cajun Potato Wedges: Crispy wedges seasoned with Cajun spices echo the flavors in your gumbo while adding extra crunch!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

It’s easy to make mistakes when cooking gumbo, especially if you’re new to the dish. Here are some common pitfalls and how to steer clear of them.

• Overcooking the Shrimp: Shrimp cooks quickly, so adding it too early can lead to a rubbery texture. Add shrimp in the last 5-7 minutes of cooking for the best results.
• Skipping the Roux: The roux is essential for flavor and thickness. Take your time to cook it until it’s a deep brown color for a rich taste.
• Not Seasoning Enough: Gumbo relies on bold flavors. Don’t skip the spices or seasonings; adjust to your taste preferences, but be generous for that authentic kick.
• Using Too Much Liquid: If you add too much broth or water, your gumbo will be soupy instead of thick. Measure carefully and adjust based on your desired consistency.
• Ignoring Fresh Ingredients: Fresh veggies enhance flavor significantly. Use fresh onions, peppers, and garlic where possible; they make a big difference.
• Not Letting It Sit: Gumbo often tastes better after resting. Allow it to sit for a few minutes before serving to let the flavors meld together.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Gumbo can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Instant Pot Louisiana Gumbo with Chicken and Shrimp

• Allow gumbo to cool completely before freezing.
• Use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Instant Pot Louisiana Gumbo with Chicken and Shrimp

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place gumbo in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil. Heat for about 20-30 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Transfer gumbo to a microwave-safe bowl. Cover loosely and heat in 1-minute increments until hot, stirring occasionally.
• Stovetop: Pour gumbo into a saucepan over medium heat. Stir occasionally until heated through, which should take about 10-15 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Instant Pot Louisiana Gumbo with Chicken and Shrimp special?

This recipe captures the essence of traditional gumbo by combining savory chicken, tender shrimp, and a mix of Cajun spices, all cooked efficiently in an Instant Pot.

Can I customize my Instant Pot Louisiana Gumbo with Chicken and Shrimp?

Absolutely! You can add different vegetables, proteins like turkey or lamb, or adjust spice levels according to your preference.

How do I thicken my gumbo?

If your gumbo is too thin, you can create a slurry using flour and water or add more okra during cooking for additional thickness.

What side dishes go well with Instant Pot Louisiana Gumbo with Chicken and Shrimp?

Fluffy rice is traditional, but cornbread or a simple salad also complements this hearty dish wonderfully.

Conclusion

This Instant Pot Louisiana Gumbo with Chicken and Shrimp offers a delightful blend of flavors that embodies comfort food at its finest. Its versatility allows you to tailor it according to your tastes, making it perfect for any occasion. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy the rich goodness that comes from this beloved Cajun classic!

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