Healthier Slow Cooker Gumbo

Ingredients and Weight:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1 pound large peeled shrimp, deveined and tails removed
• 1/2 cup chopped green bell pepper
• 1/2 cup chopped red bell pepper
• 1/2 cup chopped yellow onion
• 3 celery stalks, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
• 1 tablespoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 (15-ounce) can diced tomatoes (undrained)
• 1/2 cup tomato paste
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 cup chopped okra
• 1/2 cup chopped green onions

Preparation Time:

15 minutes

Cooking Time:

6-8 hours on low

Difficulty Level:

2 (moderate)

Preparation Method Steps:

1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned on all sides.
2. Transfer the chicken to a 6-quart slow cooker. Add the shrimp, bell peppers, onion, celery, garlic, Cajun seasoning, thyme, oregano, salt, and black pepper.
3. Pour in the chicken broth, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, and bay leaf.
4. Cook on low for 6-8 hours, or until the chicken is tender and the vegetables are soft.
5. Stir in the okra and green onions. Continue cooking for 30 minutes, or until the okra is tender.

Nutritional Information:

• Calories: 350 per serving
• Protein: 30 grams
• Carbohydrates: 35 grams
• Fat: 15 grams
• Fiber: 5 grams

Dish Characteristics:

• Flavorful and savory
• Thick and hearty
• Perfect for a cold winter day
• Can be made ahead of time

User Comments:

• "This was the best gumbo I ever had! It was so flavorful and had the perfect amount of spice."
• "I love that this gumbo is healthier than traditional recipes, but it still tastes amazing!"
• "I made this for a dinner party and everyone raved about it. It was a huge success!"

Special Precautions and Tips:

• If you don't have a slow cooker, you can cook this gumbo on the stovetop over low heat for 2-3 hours.
• You can adjust the amount of Cajun seasoning to taste.
• If you don't have okra, you can substitute green beans or corn.