Name: Jambalaya: A Classic Cajun Recipe to Spice Up Your Dinner
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: Cajun
Ingredients: 1 pound Andouille sausage, sliced; 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces; 1 pound medium shrimp, peeled and deveined; 1 medium onion, diced; 1 red bell pepper, diced; 1 green bell pepper, diced; 3 stalks of celery, diced; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 3 cups long-grain rice, rinsed and drained; 6 cups chicken broth (preferably low-sodium); 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 1 bay leaf; ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste); Salt and black pepper to taste; 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes, undrained; 1 cup frozen peas; ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley (for garnish); 2 tablespoons olive oil (for cooking)

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Jambalaya is a beloved Southern classic that brings the best of Cajun cuisine right to your kitchen. It’s a one-pot dish that’s packed with bold, zesty flavors, hearty ingredients, and just the right amount of spice. The combination of tender chicken, smoky sausage, and succulent shrimp cooked with aromatic vegetables and fragrant seasonings creates a comforting, well-rounded meal that is perfect for family dinners or social gatherings. Best of all, it’s highly adaptable, allowing you to experiment with various proteins or add your favorite veggies. Once you master the basics, you can make it your own.

Ingredients

1 pound Andouille sausage, sliced
1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
1 pound medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
1 medium onion, diced
1 red bell pepper, diced
1 green bell pepper, diced
3 stalks of celery, diced
4 cloves garlic, minced
3 cups long-grain rice, rinsed and drained
6 cups chicken broth (preferably low-sodium)
1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 bay leaf
½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
Salt and black pepper to taste
1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes, undrained
1 cup frozen peas
¼ cup chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
2 tablespoons olive oil (for cooking)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Prepare the Chicken: Cut the chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces and season with salt and pepper.
Sear the Chicken: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for about 5-7 minutes, until golden brown. Remove from the pot and set aside.
Sauté the Vegetables: In the same pot, add the diced onion, bell peppers, and celery. Sauté for about 4-5 minutes, until the vegetables are soft. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Add Spices and Rice: Stir in the Cajun seasoning, thyme, cayenne pepper, and bay leaf. Add the rinsed rice and stir to coat the grains with the vegetable mixture and spices.
Add Liquids: Pour in the diced tomatoes (including the liquid) and chicken broth. Scrape the bottom of the pot to incorporate all the flavor bits.
Combine Everything: Return the cooked chicken to the pot. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and has absorbed the liquid.
Add the Shrimp: Stir in the shrimp, then cover and cook for another 5 minutes, until the shrimp are pink and fully cooked.
Serve: Remove from heat and let sit for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

Servings: 8-10 servings
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 35 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes

Variations

Protein Swap: Use different meats such as smoked sausage, kielbasa, or even fish like catfish or tilapia for variety.
Vegetarian Version: Replace the meat with plant-based proteins like tempeh and use vegetable broth to create a vegetarian Jambalaya.
Seafood-Only: For seafood lovers, focus on shrimp, crab, and other shellfish, leaving out the sausage and chicken.
Spicy Kick: Increase the cayenne pepper or add hot sauce to give the dish more heat if you enjoy spicier food.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftover Jambalaya in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Freezing: If you want to keep it longer, Jambalaya can be frozen for up to 3 months. Place in freezer-safe containers or bags, and label with the date.
Reheating: When ready to eat, reheat in a pan over medium heat, adding a splash of broth or water to prevent it from drying out. Alternatively, you can reheat it in the microwave until piping hot.

FAQs

1. What is Jambalaya traditionally made of?

Jambalaya is traditionally made with rice, proteins like chicken, sausage, and shrimp, vegetables such as onions, bell peppers, and celery, and flavored with a blend of spices like cayenne, thyme, and paprika.

2. Can Jambalaya be made in advance?

Yes, Jambalaya can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.

3. Is Jambalaya gluten-free?

Yes, traditional Jambalaya is naturally gluten-free since it’s primarily made with rice, vegetables, and meat. However, check the labels for any pre-made sauces or seasonings that may contain gluten.

4. What are some variations of Jambalaya?

Popular variations include Creole Jambalaya (with tomatoes) and Cajun Jambalaya (without tomatoes). You can also adjust the protein choices or make a vegetarian version with plant-based ingredients.

5. Can I make Jambalaya in a slow cooker?

Absolutely! Simply add all your ingredients, including uncooked rice, to the slow cooker and cook on low for 4-6 hours. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

6. What should I serve with Jambalaya?

Jambalaya pairs wonderfully with side dishes like cornbread, coleslaw, green salads, or even a side of pickled vegetables for added tang.

7. Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, but keep in mind that brown rice requires a longer cooking time. You’ll also need to adjust the amount of liquid accordingly.

8. How can I make Jambalaya spicier?

You can add extra cayenne pepper, hot sauce, or even diced jalapeños for an extra spicy kick.

9. How do I know when the Jambalaya is done?

The rice should be tender and have absorbed all the liquid. The shrimp should be pink and opaque, and the chicken should be fully cooked.

10. Can I freeze leftover Jambalaya?

Yes, Jambalaya freezes well for up to 3 months. Store it in airtight containers and thaw it in the refrigerator before reheating.

Conclusion

Jambalaya is a fantastic dish that encapsulates the bold, hearty flavors of Cajun and Creole cuisine. With its perfect balance of proteins, vegetables, and spices, it’s a versatile meal that’s easy to make and incredibly satisfying. Whether you follow the traditional recipe or experiment with your own variations, Jambalaya is sure to spice up your dinner table. So gather your ingredients, embrace the magic of Southern cooking, and enjoy this flavorful one-pot wonder