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+ servings
A comforting serving of gumbo with fresh garnishes, served in a white bowl, perfect for a warm and satisfying keto meal.

Keto Gumbo Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 4 hours
This Keto Gumbo Recipe delivers the rich, bold flavors of traditional gumbo without the carbs. Featuring chicken, shrimp, sausage, and a flavorful Cajun broth, this low-carb version is thickened with xanthan gum for the perfect consistency. A simple slow cooker meal!
8 Servings

Ingredients

  • 3 pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs
  • 1 pound frozen shrimp deveined, tails removed
  • 1 pound smoked sausage sliced into rounds
  • 1 red bell pepper sliced
  • 1 cup chopped white onion
  • 1 cup chopped celery
  • ¼ cup chopped garlic
  • 6 ounces tomato paste
  • 15 ounces canned diced tomatoes
  • 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning blend
  • ½ teaspoon dried thyme
  • ½ teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon xanthan gum
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • 2 cups chicken broth

Instructions
 

Prepare the Ingredients

  1. Begin by slicing the sausage into rounds and chopping the bell pepper, onion, celery, and garlic. If using frozen shrimp, ensure they are thawed before cooking.

Assemble the Slow Cooker

  1. In a large slow cooker (6-quart or larger), add the chicken thighs, sausage, bell pepper, onion, celery, garlic, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, and all seasonings (Cajun seasoning, thyme, oregano, black pepper, and salt). Pour in the chicken broth and stir to combine all ingredients thoroughly.

Cook the Gumbo

  1. Cover the slow cooker with a lid and set the temperature to high heat. Allow the gumbo to cook for 4 hours, stirring occasionally to ensure even cooking.

Add the Shrimp

  1. After 4 hours, carefully remove the chicken thighs from the slow cooker and shred them using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the pot. Add the shrimp, stir gently, and cover. Cook for an additional 20 minutes, or until the shrimp is fully cooked and pink.

Thicken the Gumbo

  1. Sprinkle ½ teaspoon xanthan gum over the gumbo and stir well to incorporate. Allow the gumbo to sit for a few minutes, as the broth will thicken slightly upon cooling.

Serve

  1. Ladle the gumbo into bowls and serve hot. Optionally, garnish with fresh parsley or a dash of hot sauce for extra flavor.

Notes

This Keto Gumbo Recipe is naturally gluten-free, but here are a few additional precautions to ensure it remains completely safe for those with gluten sensitivities:
  • Check the sausage label: Some brands contain fillers or preservatives with gluten. Look for a certified gluten-free smoked sausage.
  • Use gluten-free Cajun seasoning: Some seasoning blends include wheat-based anti-caking agents. Opt for a homemade Cajun spice blend or check the label.
  • Avoid cross-contamination: If preparing for someone with celiac disease, use clean utensils, cutting boards, and cookware to prevent exposure to gluten.
By following these steps, this low-carb gumbo remains both gluten-free and keto-friendly, while still providing the bold, authentic flavors of a classic Cajun dish.
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