If you're looking for a filling and delicious meal, 1 serving (10.58 oz) of chicken gumbo soup packs just the right amount of flavor and nutrition. With only 120 calories, you won't have to worry about exceeding your daily calorie intake.
What makes chicken gumbo soup a healthier option is its ingredients. It's packed with vegetables, protein, and essential nutrients that your body needs.
In this article, we'll explore the many benefits of incorporating chicken gumbo soup into your diet, as well as some easy and delicious ways to prepare it.
Ingredients in Chicken Gumbo Soup
Chicken gumbo soup is a flavorful blend of vegetables and spices, cooked together with chicken and a rich broth. The key ingredients in this soup include: - Chicken breast, shredded or cubed
- Okra, chopped
- Green peppers, diced
- Yellow onions, chopped
- Celery, diced
- Tomatoes, diced
- Garlic, minced
- Bay leaves
- Thyme
- Salt
- Black pepper
- Chicken broth
- Flour or cornstarch (for thickening)
Nutrient Content
One serving of chicken gumbo soup contains the following nutrients: - calories: 120
- Fat: 2.5g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Protein: 14g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Vitamin A: 20% DV
- Vitamin C: 40% DV
- Calcium: 4% DV
- Iron: 6% DV As you can see, chicken gumbo soup is a good source of protein, fiber, and vitamins. It's also relatively low in calories, making it a great option for weight loss and weight management.
Health Benefits of Chicken Gumbo Soup
Chicken gumbo soup offers a variety of health benefits, including: - Boosts immunity: Chicken soup is rich in amino acids, which are essential for building a strong immune system.
- Aids digestion: The fiber content in gumbo soup helps regulate digestion and prevent constipation.
- Reduces inflammation: The antioxidant properties of the vegetables and spices in gumbo soup help reduce inflammation in the body.
- Promotes satiety: The high protein and fiber content in chicken gumbo soup helps keep you feeling full longer, reducing the chances of overeating or snacking on unhealthy foods.
Serving Size
One serving of chicken gumbo soup is 10.58 oz or approximately 1.3 cups. This serving size provides 120 calories.
Ways to Prepare Chicken Gumbo Soup
While chicken gumbo soup is already delicious on its own, there are many ways to spice it up and make it even more enjoyable. Here are some easy ways to prepare chicken gumbo soup: - Add a dash of hot sauce or chili pepper for a spicy kick.
- Serve with a side of rice, quinoa, or noodles for a more filling meal.
- Top with shredded cheese, croutons, or fresh herbs for added flavor.
- Substitute chicken with shrimp or other seafood for a seafood gumbo.
- Use a slow cooker to make gumbo soup for a hearty and comforting meal.
Serving Suggestions
Here are some serving suggestions to make your chicken gumbo soup even more enjoyable: - Serve with a side of crusty bread for dipping.
- Top with a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt for added creaminess.
- Sprinkle with chopped green onions or parsley for added freshness.
- Pair with a side salad for a complete and balanced meal.
Chicken Gumbo Soup for Weight Loss
Chicken gumbo soup is a great option for weight loss and weight management because it's low in calories, high in protein, and high in fiber. It also helps keep you feeling full for longer, reducing the chances of overeating or snacking on unhealthy foods. To make chicken gumbo soup even more weight-loss friendly, use low-sodium chicken broth and skip the flour or cornstarch thickening agent. You can also add more vegetables to increase the fiber content and decrease the calorie density of the soup.
Easy Homemade Chicken Gumbo Soup Recipe
Here's an easy recipe for homemade chicken gumbo soup: Ingredients:
- 1 lb chicken breast, shredded or cubed
- 1 cup okra, chopped
- 1 green pepper, diced
- 1 yellow onion, chopped
- 3 stalks celery, diced
- 2 tomatoes, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 tsp thyme
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 2 tbsp flour or cornstarch (optional)
- Hot sauce or chili pepper (optional) Directions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the chicken until browned. Remove from pot and set aside.
2. In the same pot, sauté the onions, celery, and green peppers until softened. Add garlic and sauté for an additional minute.
3. Add chicken, okra, tomatoes, bay leaves, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir until combined.
4. Pour in chicken broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and let simmer for 30 minutes.
5. If you want a thicker soup, mix flour or cornstarch with some water to make a slurry. Add to the soup and let simmer for an additional 10 minutes.
6. Remove from heat and let cool. Remove bay leaves before serving. Add hot sauce or chili pepper (optional).
Best Brands of Chicken Gumbo Soup
If you're short on time or prefer pre-made soups, here are some of the best brands of chicken gumbo soup to try: - Campbell's Chunky Chicken Gumbo Soup
- Progresso Chicken & Sausage Gumbo Soup
- Wolfgang Puck Organic Chicken Gumbo Soup
- Bear Creek Country Kitchens Chicken Gumbo Soup Mix
- Tony Chachere's Famous Creole Style Gumbo Base While these soups may contain slightly different ingredients and nutrition facts, they're all tasty and easy options for a quick and satisfying meal.
Delicious Variations of Chicken Gumbo Soup
While the traditional chicken gumbo soup is delicious as is, there are many variations you can try to switch things up. Here are some delicious variations of chicken gumbo soup: - Seafood gumbo: Add shrimp, crab, and/or oysters to make a seafood gumbo.
- Sausage gumbo: Add andouille or smoked sausage for extra flavor.
- Vegetarian gumbo: Omit chicken and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Add extra vegetables like kale, collard greens, or sweet potatoes.
"There's nothing more comforting than a bowl of hot soup on a cold day, and chicken gumbo soup is no exception. It's wholesome, flavorful, and nutritious - a perfect meal for any occasion."
5 FAQs About Chicken Gumbo Soup
1. What is chicken gumbo soup?
Chicken gumbo soup is a hearty stew-like soup that traditionally comes from Cajun cuisine. It is typically made with chicken, sausage or other meat, and a variety of vegetables, including celery, onions, and bell peppers. The soup also contains a roux, which is a mixture of flour and fat, and is thickened with okra or filé powder.
2. How many calories are in a serving of chicken gumbo soup?
One serving (10.58 oz) of chicken gumbo soup contains 120 calories. However, the calorie count may vary depending on the brand and specific recipe of the soup.
3. Is chicken gumbo soup healthy?
Chicken gumbo soup can be a healthy meal option if it is made with nutritious ingredients and in moderation. The soup contains protein, fiber, and a variety of vitamins and minerals from the vegetables. However, some recipes may be high in sodium and fat from added meats, so it's important to check the nutrition label and ingredients before consuming.
4. How is chicken gumbo soup usually served?
Chicken gumbo soup is typically served with rice, potatoes, or bread to soak up the flavorful broth. Some people also like to add hot sauce, Worcestershire sauce, or other seasonings to enhance the flavor.
5. Can chicken gumbo soup be frozen?
Yes, chicken gumbo soup can be frozen for later consumption. However, it's important to store the soup in an airtight container or freezer bag to prevent freezer burn or contamination. When reheating the soup, it's best to thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and then heat it on the stove until piping hot.