When you're craving a delicious and hearty meal, chicken and sausage gumbo soup is the perfect choice. With only 226 calories per serving, this dish is a guilt-free indulgence. Made with flavorful chicken, spicy sausage, and tasty vegetables, this soup has all the ingredients you need for a satisfying meal.
Not only is this dish delicious, but it's also packed with nutrients. Chicken and sausage gumbo soup is a great source of protein, vitamins, and minerals, making it the perfect choice for a healthy, balanced meal.
In this article, we'll explore the recipe for chicken and sausage gumbo soup, its nutritional value, and the many benefits of eating it. We'll also take a look at some popular variations of the dish, tips for making it, and how to store it properly. Whether you're a seasoned cook or a beginner, this article has everything you need to know to make the perfect chicken and sausage gumbo soup.
Recipe for Chicken and Sausage Gumbo Soup
To make chicken and sausage gumbo soup, you'll need a few key ingredients. Here's the recipe:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 links spicy sausage, sliced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 green pepper, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 1 cup okra, chopped
- 1 cup uncooked brown rice
First, heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chicken and sausage, and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from the pot and set aside. In the same pot, add the onion, green pepper, celery, and garlic, and sauté until tender, about 10 minutes. Add the paprika, thyme, and cayenne pepper, and stir to combine. Add the chicken broth, diced tomatoes, and okra, and bring to a simmer. Add the brown rice and return the chicken and sausage to the pot. Cover and simmer until the rice is cooked and the chicken is tender, about 25-30 minutes. Serve hot and enjoy!
Nutritional Value of Chicken and Sausage Gumbo Soup
Chicken and sausage gumbo soup is a great source of nutrition. Here's the nutritional breakdown per serving:
- calories: 226
- Protein: 22g
- Fat: 6g
- Carbohydrates: 21g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 3g
Not only is this dish low in calories, but it's also high in protein and fiber. It's a great choice for anyone looking to eat a healthy, balanced meal.
Benefits of Eating Chicken and Sausage Gumbo Soup
There are many benefits to eating chicken and sausage gumbo soup. Here are just a few:
- Good source of protein: Chicken and sausage gumbo soup is an excellent source of protein, which is essential for building and repairing muscle.
- High in fiber: The vegetables and brown rice in this soup provide a good source of fiber, which helps to keep you feeling full and satisfied.
- Low in calories: With only 226 calories per serving, chicken and sausage gumbo soup is a great choice for anyone looking to maintain a healthy weight.
- Rich in vitamins and minerals: The vegetables and spices in this dish provide a range of essential vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, vitamin A, iron, and potassium.
Overall, chicken and sausage gumbo soup is a delicious and nutritious choice for any meal.
Ingredients used in Chicken and Sausage Gumbo Soup
The ingredients used in chicken and sausage gumbo soup are simple and flavorful. Here's what you'll need:
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Spicy sausage
- Onion
- Green pepper
- Celery
- Garlic
- Olive oil
- Paprika
- Dried thyme
- Cayenne pepper
- Chicken broth
- Diced tomatoes
- Okra
- Brown rice
These ingredients can easily be found at your local grocery store and are affordable for any budget.
Popular Variations of Chicken and Sausage Gumbo Soup
While the classic chicken and sausage gumbo soup recipe is delicious, there are many variations that you can try to mix things up. Here are a few popular variations:
- Seafood gumbo: Replace the chicken and sausage with shrimp, crab, and other seafood.
- Vegan gumbo: Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and replace the chicken and sausage with mushrooms and other vegetables.
- Spicy gumbo: Add extra cayenne pepper or hot sauce to give your soup an extra kick.
These variations can help to keep things interesting and add some variety to your meals.
Tips for making Chicken and Sausage Gumbo Soup
Making the perfect chicken and sausage gumbo soup can take a bit of practice, but these tips can help:
- Use quality ingredients: The quality of your ingredients can greatly affect the flavor of your soup.
- Prep ingredients ahead of time: Chop your vegetables and slice your sausage ahead of time to save on prep time.
- Simmer for the right amount of time: Let your soup simmer for at least 25-30 minutes to allow the flavors to fully develop.
With a little practice, you'll be making the perfect chicken and sausage gumbo soup every time.
Quick Fixes for Chicken and Sausage Gumbo Soup
If you're short on time, these quick fixes can help you make delicious chicken and sausage gumbo soup in no time:
- Use pre-cooked chicken: Use pre-cooked chicken to save on cooking time.
- Use frozen vegetables: Frozen vegetables can be a great time-saver and still provide all the nutrients you need.
- Use a slow cooker: Use a slow cooker to save even more time and let your soup simmer all day.
With these quick fixes, you can enjoy delicious chicken and sausage gumbo soup even on your busiest days.
How to serve Chicken and Sausage Gumbo Soup
Chicken and sausage gumbo soup is best served hot and with a side of crusty bread. Here are a few tips for serving:
- Top with green onions: Sprinkle some chopped green onions on top of your soup for an extra burst of flavor.
- Add hot sauce: If you like your soup extra spicy, add some hot sauce on top.
- Serve with crusty bread: A side of crusty bread is the perfect accompaniment to this hearty soup.
With these tips, you can serve the perfect bowl of chicken and sausage gumbo soup every time.
Storage Tips for Chicken and Sausage Gumbo Soup
If you have leftovers, here are some tips for storing them properly:
- Refrigerate in an airtight container: Store your soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freeze for later: You can also freeze your soup for up to 3 months. Just be sure to thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
- Reheat on the stove: To reheat your soup, simply heat it up on the stove over low heat until it's heated through.
With these storage tips, you can enjoy your leftover chicken and sausage gumbo soup for days to come.
Frequently Asked Questions about Chicken and Sausage Gumbo Soup
Here are some common questions people have about chicken and sausage gumbo soup:
- Is gumbo soup spicy?
- Can you make gumbo soup ahead of time?
- What should you serve with gumbo soup?
Answers to these and other questions can be found in our comprehensive FAQ section below.
Chicken and sausage gumbo soup is a delicious and hearty meal that's perfect for any occasion. With its rich flavor and nutritious ingredients, it's sure to become a favorite in your household.
Frequently Asked Questions about Chicken and Sausage Gumbo Soup
1. How many servings does this amount of soup make?
It is not specified how much is in one serving, so it is impossible to determine the total quantity of soup produced.
2. Does this soup contain any gluten?
It depends on the recipe used to create the soup. Some recipes may include flour or other gluten-containing ingredients in the roux used to thicken the soup. If you have a gluten intolerance or allergy, be sure to check the ingredients carefully or choose a recipe specifically labeled as gluten-free.
3. Can this soup be frozen for later consumption?
Yes, this soup can be frozen for later consumption. Allow the soup to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container and freeze for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
4. Is Chicken and Sausage Gumbo Soup a healthy dish?
This soup can be a healthy choice, depending on the specific recipe and the serving size consumed. Chicken provides lean protein, while vegetables such as peppers and tomatoes provide important nutrients. However, some recipes may be high in sodium or fat, so be sure to check the nutrition facts and adjust your portion size accordingly.
5. What are some common variations of Chicken and Sausage Gumbo Soup?
Common variations of this dish may include using different types of sausage, such as andouille or chorizo. Some recipes may also call for shrimp or other seafood, while others may use okra as a thickener instead of a roux. Additionally, different spice blends may be used to give the dish a unique flavor profile.