Name: Easy Jambalaya Recipe: A Spicy Cajun Comfort Dish
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: Southern
Ingredients: 8 oz andouille sausage, sliced; 1 lb raw shrimp, peeled and deveined; 1 lb boneless skinless chicken thighs, cut into chunks; 1 1/2 cups long-grain white rice; 1 red bell pepper, diced; 1 green bell pepper, diced; 2 celery stalks, diced; 1 medium yellow onion, chopped; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, with juices; 3 cups chicken broth; 1 tablespoon Creole seasoning; 1 teaspoon paprika; 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme; 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional); 1 bay leaf; 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish); 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish); 2 tablespoons cooking oil; Salt and black pepper to taste

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Jambalaya brings the bold, smoky flavors of Louisiana right into your kitchen. This Easy Homemade Jambalaya is the perfect one-pot comfort meal filled with andouille sausage, tender chicken, juicy shrimp, and a fragrant rice base seasoned with Creole spices. Whether you’re cooking up a quick dinner or impressing guests, this hearty dish is colorful and full of flavor, making it a must-try for anyone who loves Southern food or easy recipe inspiration.

Why You’ll Love This Jambalaya

This Jambalaya is not just delicious; it’s also incredibly versatile. Here are some reasons to love it:

It’s a one-pot jambalaya meal that minimizes cleanup.
The rich flavors are perfect for a cozy family dinner or festive gatherings.
It’s filled with protein from chicken, sausage, and shrimp, making it a satisfying dish.
You can easily customize it with your favorite vegetables or proteins for a personal touch.
This recipe is a fantastic introduction to traditional Cajun cuisine.
It’s an excellent option for meal prep, ensuring you have delicious leftovers for the week.
Jambalaya is a spicy rice and meat dish that can be adjusted to your heat preference.
Cooking this dish is a great way to impress your guests with minimal effort.

Ingredients for Jambalaya

Gather these items:

8 oz andouille sausage, sliced
1 lb raw shrimp, peeled and deveined
1 lb boneless skinless chicken thighs, cut into chunks
1 1/2 cups long-grain white rice
1 red bell pepper, diced
1 green bell pepper, diced
2 celery stalks, diced
1 medium yellow onion, chopped
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, with juices
3 cups chicken broth
1 tablespoon Creole seasoning
1 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
1 bay leaf
2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
2 tablespoons cooking oil
Salt and black pepper to taste

How to Make Jambalaya Step-by-Step

Step 1: Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add sliced andouille sausage and cook until browned. Remove and set aside.
Step 2: Season chicken with salt and pepper, then sear until golden on both sides. Set aside with sausage.
Step 3: In the same pot, sauté onion, celery, and bell peppers until soft. Add garlic and cook until fragrant.
Step 4: Stir in diced tomatoes, Creole seasoning, paprika, thyme, cayenne, and bay leaf. Let simmer for 2–3 minutes.
Step 5: Add rice and chicken broth. Stir to combine. Nestle sausage and chicken into the pot. Bring to a simmer.
Step 6: Cover and cook over low heat for 20–25 minutes, without lifting the lid.
Step 7: Stir in shrimp, cover again, and cook for 5–7 more minutes, until shrimp are pink and cooked through.
Step 8: Remove bay leaf. Sprinkle with green onions and parsley. Adjust seasoning to taste and serve hot.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Jambalaya

Keep these in mind:

This recipe is perfect for meal prep.
Feel free to customize with your favorite vegetables.
Serve with hot sauce for extra heat.
For an authentic taste, use homemade jambalaya spice blend recipes.

Best Ways to Serve Jambalaya

Here are some ideas to elevate your dish:

Pair with crusty bread or cornbread for a satisfying meal.
Serve with a side salad to balance the flavors.
For a lighter option, try a vegetarian jambalaya version using mushrooms and zucchini.

How to Store and Reheat Jambalaya

To store leftover jambalaya, let it cool completely and transfer it to an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave or warm on the stovetop until heated through. This is also a great choice for jambalaya meal prep ideas.

Frequently Asked Questions About Jambalaya

What’s the secret to perfect Jambalaya?

The secret to perfect jambalaya lies in the seasoning and cooking time. Use quality authentic jambalaya ingredients and let the dish simmer without lifting the lid to ensure the rice absorbs all the flavors.

Can I make Jambalaya ahead of time?

Yes! Jambalaya can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator. It often tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Jambalaya?

To avoid common mistakes, make sure to measure your rice and broth accurately. Also, avoid stirring too much during cooking as it can make the rice mushy.

Variations of Jambalaya You Can Try

Explore these variations:

Chicken and sausage jambalaya for a classic combo.
Shrimp jambalaya variation focusing on seafood.
Add vegetables like okra or green beans for a twist.
Try a vegetarian jambalaya using beans and extra veggies.