Description
A lighter, modern twist on classic Southern gumbo inspired by Meghan Markle’s clean, flavorful cooking style. This chicken gumbo soup blends a medium-dark roux, fresh vegetables, warm spices, and a touch of brightness to create a comforting, wholesome bowl perfect for weeknights or cozy weekends.
Ingredients
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- ½ cup oil (avocado, canola, or vegetable oil)
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 3–4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1–1.5 lbs chicken breast or thighs, diced
- 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1–2 tsp paprika
- Pinch of cayenne pepper (optional)
- 2 bay leaves
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley or green onions for serving
- Cooked rice (optional, for serving)
Instructions
- Make the Roux: In a heavy pot, whisk together the flour and oil over medium heat. Stir constantly until the roux turns a warm caramel color.
- Add Aromatics: Stir in the onion, bell pepper, and celery. Cook until softened, then add the garlic and spices.
- Brown the Chicken: Add the chicken pieces and cook for 3–4 minutes until lightly browned.
- Build the Soup Base: Pour in the chicken broth, add bay leaves, and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
- Simmer: Cook uncovered for 35–45 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the gumbo thickens and flavors deepen.
- Finish & Serve: Season to taste, remove bay leaves, and serve over rice with fresh herbs.
Notes
Add a splash of lemon juice or vinegar to brighten the flavors.
Substitute mushrooms or okra for a vegetarian version.
For a healthier option, use avocado oil in the roux.
Gumbo tastes even better the next day as flavors develop.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Soup, Comfort Food
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Southern-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 4 g
- Sodium: 520 mg
- Fat: 14 g
- Saturated Fat: 2 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 18 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 24 g
- Cholesterol: 65 mg
Keywords: Meghan Markle gumbo soup recipe, Meghan Markle soup, chicken gumbo, Southern-style gumbo, celebrity gumbo recipe, easy gumbo soup, gumbo with chicken
