Light Chicken And Rice Gumbo
A comforting Southern‑style gumbo featuring tender chicken, sweet corn, and okra, simmered with tomatoes and rice for a hearty, savory bowl that feeds a crowd.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Heat the chicken broth in a large saucepan over medium heat.
- Add the chicken, corn, tomatoes, okra, rice, and black pepper.
- Bring the mixture to a boil.
- Reduce heat and simmer, uncovered, for 20 minutes or until the chicken and rice are cooked.
- Serve hot, enjoying the rich, comforting flavors.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider sautéing onions and bell peppers before adding the other ingredients. You can substitute brown rice for white rice for a nuttier taste and more fiber. If you prefer a spicier gumbo, add cayenne pepper or your favorite hot sauce. If you have leftover vegetables, feel free to toss them in for extra nutrition.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the gumbo hot, garnished with fresh parsley or green onions for an extra burst of flavor. It pairs beautifully with crusty bread or a simple green salad. For a heartier meal, consider serving it alongside a dish like Sweet N' Tangy Chicken And Rice for a delightful combination of flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a saucepan over medium heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or water if needed to loosen the consistency. Stir frequently until heated through. This gumbo also freezes well for up to 3 months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Light Chicken And Rice Gumbo contains roughly 405 calories, with 34g protein, 43g carbohydrates, and 14g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (69% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (48% of the Daily Value), and iron (35% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C. It also contributes 13g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this gumbo ahead of time?
Yes, this gumbo can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator. The flavors actually improve as they meld. Just reheat it gently before serving. If you choose to freeze it, make sure to leave out the rice and add it fresh when reheating for the best texture.
What can I use instead of okra?
If you don't have okra, you can substitute with diced zucchini or green beans for a similar texture. Alternatively, you can omit it entirely if you prefer. Just keep in mind that okra adds a unique flavor and slight thickness to the gumbo.
Is this gumbo spicy?
This recipe is not inherently spicy, but you can easily adjust the heat level to your preference. Adding cayenne pepper, hot sauce, or diced jalapeños will give it a kick. Start with a small amount and adjust to taste as you cook.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).