quick and easy jambalaya recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
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The Best quick and easy jambalaya recipe

I’ve been making this quick and easy jambalaya recipe for years, and it’s always a hit with my family. It’s a classic dish that originated in Louisiana, and it’s packed with flavorful ingredients like sausage, chicken, and vegetables.

The best part is that it’s incredibly easy to make, and you can have it on the table in under 30 minutes. I love that it’s a one-pot wonder, too – just toss all the ingredients together in a big pot and let the magic happen.

My kids adore helping me stir the pot and taste-testing as we go along. This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, and it’s also great for meal prep since it reheats beautifully.

Plus, it’s relatively healthy considering how much flavor you pack into each serving. I like to serve it over rice or noodles, but you can also serve it with some crusty bread or over cornbread for a fun twist.

It’s just one of those dishes that never fails to put a smile on everyone’s face.

Quick and Easy Jambalaya

Quick and Easy Jambalaya

4.5 from 567 votes

A one-pot jambalaya that comes together in under 30 minutes. This Louisiana-inspired dish combines smoky sausage, tender chicken, and shrimp with rice and bold Cajun flavors.

Prep Time10 mins
Cook Time20 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time30 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 450 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Jambalaya

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 pound boneless skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
8 ounces andouille sausage, sliced into rounds
1 medium onion, diced
1 green bell pepper, diced
2 celery stalks, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes, undrained
1 cup long-grain white rice
1 1/2 cups chicken broth
2 teaspoons Cajun seasoning
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
1 bay leaf
1/2 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
Salt and black pepper to taste
2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)

👨‍🍳Directions

1Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat until shimmering.
2Add the chicken pieces and cook for 5 to 6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown on all sides and cooked through.
3Transfer the chicken to a plate and set aside.
4Add the sliced andouille sausage to the pot and cook over medium-high heat for 3 to 4 minutes, stirring frequently, until the sausage is browned and has rendered some fat.
5Use a slotted spoon to transfer the sausage to the plate with the chicken, leaving the drippings in the pot.
6Reduce the heat to medium and add the diced onion, bell pepper, and celery to the pot.
7Cook for 4 to 5 minutes, stirring often, until the vegetables are softened and the onion is translucent.
8Add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
9Stir in the diced tomatoes with their juices, rice, chicken broth, Cajun seasoning, thyme, smoked paprika, cayenne (if using), and bay leaf.
10Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer for 15 minutes until the rice is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
11Return the cooked chicken and sausage to the pot and stir in the shrimp.
12Cover and cook over low heat for 3 to 4 minutes until the shrimp are pink and opaque.
13Remove the bay leaf, season with salt and black pepper to taste, and garnish with sliced green onions before serving.

🔧Equipment

Large Dutch oven or heavy pot with lid
Cutting board
Chef’s knife
Wooden spoon
Measuring cups and spoons

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 450 kcal🧈Total Fat: 18g💛Saturated Fat: 6g❤️Cholesterol: 180mg🧂Sodium: 1200mg🌾Total Carbs: 40g🥦Dietary Fiber: 3g🍬Sugars: 6g🥩Protein: 32g

📝Notes

For a spicier jambalaya, add an extra 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper. If you prefer a smokier flavor, use andouille sausage with a higher smoke point. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Watch Video Of How Quick and Easy Jambalaya Works

This quick and easy jambalaya recipe has been a staple in our household for years – we love how easy it is to make and how delicious it turns out every time. Whether you’re looking for a weeknight dinner solution or a special occasion recipe, this dish is sure to please even the pickiest eaters.

Plus, its versatility makes it perfect for meal prep or serving at family gatherings – just reheat and serve! I highly recommend giving this recipe a try – your taste buds will thank you!

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Quick and Jambalaya

Q: What is jambalaya?

A: Jambalaya is a hearty dish made with sausage, chicken, vegetables, and rice – essentially a one-pot wonder! It’s a staple of Louisiana cuisine.

Q: Can I make jambalaya in advance?

A: Yes, you can make jambalaya ahead of time and refrigerate or freeze it for later use. Simply reheat it when you’re ready to serve.

Q: Is jambalaya spicy?

A: Not necessarily – while some recipes may include hot sauce or spicy sausage, you can easily make this dish mild by omitting these ingredients.

Q: Can I customize this recipe?

A: Absolutely! Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or protein sources to make the dish your own.

Q: How do I store leftover jambalaya?

A: Store leftover jambalaya in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat thoroughly before serving.

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