chicken and jambalaya recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
chicken and jambalaya recipe
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The Best chicken and jambalaya recipe

Jambalaya is a one-pot dish that originated in Louisiana, where it’s a staple at family gatherings and community events. The name ‘jambalaya’ comes from the Provençal term ‘jambalaia,’ meaning ‘mixture.’

It’s a hearty dish made with sausage, chicken, rice, and a blend of spices that’s been passed down through generations of cooks. My family and I love jambalaya because it’s easy to make and can be customized to suit everyone’s tastes.

We often serve it for dinner on busy weeknights or when we’re hosting guests. My kids enjoy helping me prepare the ingredients and stirring the pot as it simmers.

The aroma that fills the kitchen is incredible, and we all look forward to digging in. One of the best things about jambalaya is that it’s a great way to use up leftover ingredients, making it an excellent choice for meal planning and reducing food waste.

We’ve also found that jambalaya is a great option for potlucks and picnics because it’s easy to transport and can be served in large quantities. My husband loves that it’s a filling meal that satisfies his hunger after a long day of work.

Over time, I’ve developed my own secret ingredient list that adds depth and complexity to this classic recipe.

Chicken and Jambalaya

Chicken and Jambalaya

4.5 from 1722 votes

A hearty and flavorful dish featuring chicken, sausage, and vegetables in a spicy tomato-based sauce. This jambalaya recipe is perfect for a comforting meal.

Prep Time20 mins
Cook Time45 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time1 hr 5 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 450 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Jambalaya

2 tbsp olive oil
1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into cubes
1 lb andouille sausage, sliced
1 large onion, chopped
1 large bell pepper, chopped
2 stalks celery, chopped
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
2 cups chicken broth
1 tbsp Cajun seasoning
1 tsp paprika
1 tsp dried thyme
1 tsp dried oregano
Salt and pepper to taste
2 cups cooked rice

For Garnish

2 green onions, chopped
2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley

👨‍🍳Directions

1Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2Add chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
3Remove chicken from skillet and set aside.
4Add sausage to the skillet and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes.
5Remove sausage from skillet and set aside.
6In the same skillet, add onion, bell pepper, and celery.
7Cook, stirring occasionally, until vegetables are softened, about 5 minutes.
8Add garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.
9Stir in diced tomatoes, chicken broth, Cajun seasoning, paprika, thyme, and oregano.
10Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low.
11Simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
12Return chicken and sausage to the skillet.
13Stir in cooked rice.
14Cook for an additional 5 minutes, until everything is heated through and the flavors have melded together.
15Season with salt and pepper to taste.
16Garnish with chopped green onions and fresh parsley.

🔧Equipment

Large skillet with lid
Wooden spoon
Measuring cups and spoons

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 450 kcal🧈Total Fat: 25g💛Saturated Fat: 8g❤️Cholesterol: 100mg🧂Sodium: 1200mg🌾Total Carbs: 25g🥦Dietary Fiber: 3g🍬Sugars: 5g🥩Protein: 30g

📝Notes

Tips: For a spicier jambalaya, add diced jalapeño or a pinch of cayenne pepper. Serve with a side of garlic bread for a complete meal.

This jambalaya recipe has become a staple in our household due to its ease of preparation and adaptability to various tastes.

One reason we love this dish is its versatility – whether we’re cooking for family gatherings or simple weeknight meals, jambalaya always delivers.

My family enjoys helping me prepare this meal because we get to customize it according to our preferences.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Chicken and Jambalaya

1.

What type of sausage should I use in this recipe?

I recommend using Andouille sausage, which is a classic choice for jambalaya. You can also use other types of smoked sausage if you prefer a milder flavor or want to add some heat to your dish.

2.

Can I make this recipe without chicken?

Sure! If you’re not a fan of chicken or want to try something different, you can substitute the chicken with shrimp, pork, or even tofu for a vegetarian option.

3.

How do I prevent the rice from becoming mushy?

To avoid overcooking the rice, make sure to stir the pot frequently as it cooks and adjust the heat accordingly. You can also add more rice towards the end of cooking time if you notice it’s getting too dry.

4.

Can I store leftover jambalaya in the fridge or freezer?

You can store leftover jambalaya in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days or freeze it for up to two months. When reheating, make sure the dish is steaming hot before serving.

5.

I’m not sure what type of peppers to use – do you have any recommendations?

You can use either bell peppers or jalapeños depending on your desired level of spiciness. If you want to add some color and sweetness to your dish, bell peppers are an excellent choice; if you prefer a spicy kick, jalapeños are perfect.

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