Instant Pot Louisiana Gumbo with Chicken and Shrimp

This Instant Pot Louisiana Gumbo with Chicken and Shrimp is a delicious way to enjoy the vibrant flavors of New Orleans in your home. Perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or a cozy night in, this recipe combines tender chicken, fresh shrimp, and classic Cajun spices. The unique feature of this dish is its rich roux, which brings depth and warmth to every bite while being easy to prepare. Enjoy the comforting taste of gumbo without spending hours in the kitchen!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Cooking: The Instant Pot cuts down cooking time significantly, making it perfect for weeknight dinners.
• Bold Flavors: Packed with Cajun spices and ingredients like okra and tomatoes, each bowl bursts with flavor.
• Versatile Dish: Serve it over rice or enjoy it as a soup; customize it to suit your preferences.
• One-Pot Wonder: Minimal cleanup required since everything cooks together in one pot.
• Comfort Food: This gumbo is hearty and satisfying, ideal for any occasion.

Tools and Preparation

To make this gumbo, you’ll need a few essential kitchen tools that streamline the cooking process.

Essential Kitchen Tools

• Instant Pot
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon

Why These Tools Matter

• Instant Pot: Speeds up the cooking process while ensuring tender meat and rich flavors.
• Cutting Board & Knife: Essential for efficiently chopping vegetables and prepping ingredients.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: Help ensure precise ingredient amounts for consistent results.

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.)

For the Gumbo

• 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
• 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
• 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 Ingredients

Start by gathering all your ingredients. Chop the vegetables—green peppers, celery, and onion—and slice the chicken sausage. Rinse the rice thoroughly under cold water.

Step 2: Sauté the Sausage

Set your Instant Pot to the sauté function. Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Once hot, add the sliced chicken sausage. Sauté until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from pot and set aside.

Step 3: Create the Roux

In the same pot, add butter followed by flour. Stir continuously for about 5–7 minutes until it turns a deep brown color (this is your roux). Be careful not to burn it!

Step 4: Add Vegetables

Add chopped green peppers, celery, onion, and minced garlic to the roux. Cook for an additional 3–4 minutes until softened.

Step 5: Combine Ingredients

Return the sausage to the pot along with skinless chicken breasts, okra, diced tomatoes (if using), bay leaf, basil, cayenne pepper, oregano, Creole seasoning, thyme, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, water, and chicken broth. Stir well.

Step 6: Pressure Cook

Seal the Instant Pot lid and set it to pressure cook on high for 20 minutes. Once done cooking, allow natural release for about 10 minutes before manually releasing any remaining pressure.

Step 7: Add Shrimp

After opening the lid, stir in raw shrimp. Allow them to cook in residual heat for about 5 minutes or until they turn pink.

Step 8: Serve

Remove bay leaf before serving. Spoon gumbo over cooked rice in bowls. Enjoy your flavorful Instant Pot Louisiana Gumbo with Chicken and Shrimp!

How to Serve Instant Pot Louisiana Gumbo with Chicken and Shrimp

Serving Instant Pot Louisiana Gumbo with Chicken and Shrimp can elevate your dining experience. This flavorful dish is versatile and pairs well with various sides and toppings that enhance its rich, Cajun flavors.

Flavorful Accompaniments

• Chopped Green Onions – Sprinkle fresh green onions on top for a burst of color and mild onion flavor.
• Fresh Parsley – Add chopped parsley for a fresh herbal note that complements the gumbo’s spices.
• Hot Sauce – Provide a variety of hot sauces for those who like an extra kick in their gumbo.

Ideal Sides

• Fluffy White Rice – Serve the gumbo over cooked rice to soak up the delicious broth.
• Cornbread – A slice of cornbread adds sweetness that balances the spice of the gumbo.
• Coleslaw – A tangy coleslaw offers a crunchy texture contrast to the tender gumbo.

Perfect Pairings

• Pickled Vegetables – A small side of pickled vegetables can add acidity and crunch, enhancing the flavor profile.
• Garlic Bread – Crispy garlic bread makes for a hearty side, perfect for dipping into the gumbo broth.

How to Perfect Instant Pot Louisiana Gumbo with Chicken and Shrimp

For an exceptional Instant Pot Louisiana Gumbo with Chicken and Shrimp, consider these handy tips to enhance your dish’s flavor and texture.

• Bold Roux Creation – Cook your roux until it reaches a deep brown color for richer flavor.
• Fresh Ingredients Matter – Use fresh vegetables whenever possible to boost flavor and nutrition.
• Adjust Spice Levels – Taste as you go; adjust cayenne pepper or Creole seasoning based on your heat preference.
• Let It Rest – Allow your gumbo to sit for a few minutes after cooking; this helps flavors meld beautifully.
• Use Quality Broth – Opt for high-quality chicken broth or homemade stock for maximum flavor depth.
• Experiment with Proteins – Feel free to mix in different proteins like shrimp or chicken thighs for varied textures.

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

To create a well-rounded meal, pair your Instant Pot Louisiana Gumbo with Chicken and Shrimp with these delightful side dishes that complement its bold flavors.

1. Jasmine Rice – Fluffy jasmine rice is aromatic and perfect for soaking up the gumbo’s rich sauce.
2. Southern Cornbread Muffins – These muffins add a sweet, buttery touch that balances the savory gumbo.
3. Garlic Mashed Potatoes – Creamy mashed potatoes provide comfort alongside the robust spices of the gumbo.
4. Fried Green Tomatoes – Crispy, tangy fried green tomatoes offer a delightful crunch that contrasts well with the stew-like gumbo.
5. Roasted Brussels Sprouts – These slightly charred veggies add a nutty flavor that enhances your meal’s overall taste profile.
6. Cucumber Salad – A refreshing cucumber salad provides crispness, cooling down any spice from the dish.
7. Collard Greens – Cooked collard greens bring earthy flavors that pair beautifully with Cajun cuisine.
8. Biscuit Bites – Soft biscuit bites can be used to scoop up gumbo, making each bite enjoyable!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Instant Pot Louisiana Gumbo with Chicken and Shrimp, it’s easy to make a few missteps. Here are some common mistakes to steer clear of.

• Skipping the Roux: A good gumbo starts with a rich roux. Don’t rush this step; cook it slowly until it’s dark and flavorful.
• Overcooking the Shrimp: Shrimp cooks quickly! Add it towards the end of the cooking process to keep it tender and juicy.
• Ignoring Seasoning: Gumbo is all about flavor. Taste and adjust seasoning throughout the cooking process to ensure a well-balanced dish.
• Not Using Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables make a difference in taste. Use fresh, high-quality ingredients for the best results.
• Using Too Much Liquid: This can dilute flavors. Stick to the recommended amount of broth and water for a thick, hearty gumbo.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
• Let it cool completely before refrigerating to maintain texture.

Freezing Instant Pot Louisiana Gumbo with Chicken and Shrimp

• Place in freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Freeze for up to 2-3 months for best quality.

Reheating Instant Pot Louisiana Gumbo with Chicken and Shrimp

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

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best way to serve Instant Pot Louisiana Gumbo with Chicken and Shrimp?

Serve it over fluffy white rice for a classic presentation that complements the flavors beautifully.

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

Absolutely! Feel free to add more vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini, or adjust spices according to your taste preferences.

How long does it take to prepare Instant Pot Louisiana Gumbo with Chicken and Shrimp?

The total time is about 60 minutes, including prep and cooking time, making it a quick meal option.

Can I use frozen shrimp in this recipe?

Yes, frozen shrimp works perfectly! Just add them directly into the pot during cooking.

Conclusion

This Instant Pot Louisiana Gumbo with Chicken and Shrimp is not just quick but also packed with flavor. Its versatility allows for various ingredient swaps based on what you have on hand. Give this recipe a try—it’s sure to become a family favorite!