Instant Pot Louisiana Gumbo with Chicken and Shrimp

This Instant Pot Louisiana Gumbo with Chicken and Shrimp is a vibrant dish that captures the essence of New Orleans cuisine. It’s perfect for gatherings, family dinners, or a cozy night in. The unique combination of rich flavors, tender chicken, and succulent shrimp makes this gumbo a standout meal that everyone will love. Plus, it’s quick and easy, allowing you to whip up this delicious comfort food without spending hours in the kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With the Instant Pot, you’ll have this flavorful gumbo ready in just an hour, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Rich Flavor: The deep roux combined with traditional Cajun spices delivers an authentic taste that’s sure to impress.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can easily customize the ingredients based on your preferences or what you have on hand.
• One-Pot Wonder: Less cleanup is needed since everything cooks in one pot, making it a hassle-free meal option.
• Comforting Meal: Perfectly served over rice, this gumbo offers warmth and satisfaction that’s hard to beat.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare your Instant Pot Louisiana Gumbo with Chicken and Shrimp effectively, having the right tools on hand is essential.

Essential Kitchen Tools

• Instant Pot
• Wooden spoon
• Measuring cups
• Chopping knife

Why These Tools Matter

• Instant Pot: This electric pressure cooker drastically reduces cooking time while enhancing flavors through pressure cooking.
• Wooden Spoon: Ideal for stirring and scraping the bottom of the pot without scratching its surface.
• Measuring Cups: Ensures accuracy in your ingredient quantities for consistent results.
• Chopping Knife: A sharp knife helps you quickly prep vegetables with ease and precision.

Ingredients

For the 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 sausage link (Sliced into pieces)
• 4 tablespoons butter
• 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour

For the Main Ingredients

• 1 pound skinless chicken breasts
• 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

For Flavoring

• 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: Sauté the Sausage

Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in your Instant Pot on the sauté setting. Add the sliced chicken sausage and cook until browned. Remove from pot and set aside.

Step 2: Create the Roux

In the same pot, add butter and remaining olive oil. Once melted, gradually whisk in flour until it forms a smooth paste. Cook while stirring constantly until it becomes a deep brown color—this may take about 10 minutes.

Step 3: Add Vegetables

Add chopped onions, green peppers, celery, and garlic to your roux. Sauté for about 5 minutes until softened.

Step 4: Incorporate Remaining Ingredients

Stir in water, chicken broth, diced tomatoes (if using), frozen okra, chicken breasts, spices (including Creole seasoning), Worcestershire sauce, bay leaf, salt, and pepper. Mix well.

Step 5: Pressure Cook

Seal the Instant Pot lid and set it to cook on high pressure for 20 minutes. After cooking time is complete, allow natural release for about 10 minutes before quick releasing any remaining pressure.

Step 6: Finish with Shrimp

Open the lid carefully. Stir in raw shrimp and let them cook in the residual heat for about 5 minutes or until pink and cooked through.

Step 7: Serve

Remove bay leaf before serving. Serve over fluffy rice for a complete meal. Enjoy your flavorful Instant Pot Louisiana Gumbo!

How to Serve Instant Pot Louisiana Gumbo with Chicken and Shrimp

Serving your Instant Pot Louisiana Gumbo with Chicken and Shrimp can elevate the meal experience. Pair it thoughtfully to enhance the rich flavors of this classic dish.

Over Steamed White Rice

• Serve the gumbo over fluffy steamed white rice for a traditional touch that absorbs all the flavorful broth.

With Crusty French Bread

• Enjoy with slices of crusty French bread, perfect for dipping and soaking up the savory gumbo.

Topped with Fresh Green Onions

• Garnish each bowl with chopped green onions for added freshness and a pop of color.

Accompanied by a Side Salad

• A light side salad with mixed greens can balance the richness of the gumbo, adding a refreshing crunch.

Served in a Bread Bowl

• For a fun twist, serve your gumbo in a hollowed-out bread bowl for an impressive presentation and extra flavor.

With Hot Sauce on the Side

• Provide some hot sauce on the side for those who enjoy an extra kick of spice to their bowl.

How to Perfect Instant Pot Louisiana Gumbo with Chicken and Shrimp

To achieve perfection with your Instant Pot Louisiana Gumbo, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Quality Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and high-quality chicken will enhance the overall flavor profile of your gumbo.
• Make a Dark Roux: Spend time on your roux; it should be deep brown to add depth to the dish. Stir constantly to prevent burning.
• Don’t Skip the Okra: This ingredient not only adds flavor but also helps thicken the gumbo naturally.
• Adjust Spices to Taste: Feel free to tweak spices like cayenne pepper or Creole seasoning based on your heat preference.
• Let It Rest: Allowing your gumbo to sit for 10-15 minutes after cooking will help meld all flavors together beautifully.
• Reheat Gently: If you have leftovers, reheat slowly on low heat to keep the texture intact without overcooking the shrimp or chicken.

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

Pairing delicious sides with your gumbo can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some great options:

1. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw can provide a nice crunch that complements the warm, hearty gumbo.
2. Cornbread: Sweet cornbread is perfect for balancing spicy flavors while adding comfort.
3. Fried Plantains: Crispy fried plantains offer a sweet contrast that pairs well with savory dishes.
4. Vegetable Medley: A sautéed vegetable mix brings additional nutrients and colors to your meal.
5. Potato Salad: Creamy potato salad can serve as a cool counterpoint to spicy gumbo.
6. Pickled Vegetables: Add pickled vegetables for an acidic bite that cuts through richness nicely.
7. Jambalaya Rice: Serve it alongside jambalaya rice for another layer of flavor that complements Cajun cuisine.
8. Garlic Bread: Crunchy garlic bread is always a favorite choice, perfect for dipping into rich sauces.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cooking gumbo can be a rewarding experience, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Skipping the roux: The roux is essential for flavor. Spend time cooking it until it’s a deep brown color for the best taste.
• Using pre-cooked shrimp: Always use raw shrimp for better texture and flavor. Pre-cooked shrimp can turn rubbery when cooked again.
• Ignoring seasoning: Gumbo needs bold spices. Don’t skip on herbs and spices; they make the dish come alive!
• Overcooking the vegetables: Add vegetables at the right time. Cooking them too long can lead to mushy textures.
• Rushing the cooking process: Patience is key! Allow your Instant Pot to build pressure and cook properly for optimal flavor development.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Best consumed within 3-4 days.

Freezing Instant Pot Louisiana Gumbo with Chicken and Shrimp

• Cool completely before freezing.
• Use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags.
• Can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Instant Pot Louisiana Gumbo with Chicken and Shrimp

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place in a covered oven-safe dish, heat until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between.
• Stovetop: Heat over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until hot. Add a splash of broth if needed to maintain moisture.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

This dish combines bold flavors typical of Cajun cuisine with the convenience of an Instant Pot, making it easy to prepare without sacrificing taste.

Can I customize my gumbo recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or adjust the spice levels to suit your taste preferences.

How do I achieve the best roux?

Cook equal parts flour and butter over medium heat, stirring constantly until it reaches a rich brown color—this may take about 20-30 minutes.

Is it possible to make this gumbo without shrimp?

Yes! You can increase the chicken or use other proteins like beef or turkey if you prefer.

How long does it take to make this dish?

The total time is approximately 60 minutes, including prep and cooking time.

Conclusion

This Instant Pot Louisiana Gumbo with Chicken and Shrimp is not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily customize it by adding different proteins or vegetables based on your preferences. Don’t hesitate to try this recipe; it’s sure to become a new family favorite!