jambalaya crock pot recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
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The Best jambalaya crock pot recipe

I’ve been making jambalaya in my crock pot for years, and it’s always a hit with my family. This dish originated from Louisiana, where it’s a staple at many family gatherings and parties.

The combination of spicy sausage, chicken, and vegetables in a rich tomato-based broth is simply irresistible. I love how easy it is to throw all the ingredients into the crock pot in the morning, and come home to a delicious, ready-to-eat meal.

My kids devour this dish every time I make it, and I’m sure your family will too. The key to making a great jambalaya is to use high-quality ingredients, like fresh vegetables and lean meats.

By cooking everything together in the crock pot, you’ll end up with a tender, flavorful meal that’s perfect for any occasion.

Crock Pot Jambalaya

Crock Pot Jambalaya

4.8 from 1846 votes

A hearty and flavorful Louisiana-inspired jambalaya made easy in a slow cooker. This dish combines andouille sausage, chicken, and shrimp with rice and a spicy tomato base for a satisfying one-pot meal.

Prep Time20 mins
Cook Time4 hours
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time4 hours 20 mins
Servings: 6Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 450 kcal

🥘Ingredients

Main Ingredients

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

👨‍🍳Directions

1In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the sliced andouille sausage for 5 to 7 minutes until lightly charred on both sides.
2Transfer the sausage to the slow cooker, leaving about 1 tablespoon of drippings in the skillet.
3In the same skillet, add the chicken pieces and cook for 4 to 5 minutes until golden brown on all sides.
4Transfer the chicken to the slow cooker with the sausage.
5Add the diced onion, bell pepper, and celery to the skillet and sauté for 5 minutes until softened.
6Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant, then transfer the vegetables to the slow cooker.
7Pour the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and chicken broth into the slow cooker.
8Add the Cajun seasoning, thyme, smoked paprika, cayenne if using, bay leaves, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
9Stir everything together until well combined.
10Cover the slow cooker and cook on low heat for 3 hours.
11After 3 hours, stir in the rice, re-cover, and continue cooking on low for 1 hour more until the rice is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.
12Gently stir in the shrimp, cover, and cook on low for an additional 15 to 20 minutes until the shrimp are pink and opaque.
13Remove the bay leaves, taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper, then garnish with sliced green onions before serving.

🔧Equipment

6-quart slow cooker
Large skillet
Cutting board
Chef’s knife
Measuring cups and spoons
Wooden spoon

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 450 kcal🧈Total Fat: 18g💛Saturated Fat: 6g❤️Cholesterol: 180mg🧂Sodium: 1200mg🌾Total Carbs: 38g🥦Dietary Fiber: 3g🍬Sugars: 6g🥩Protein: 35g

📝Notes

For a milder jambalaya, reduce or omit the cayenne pepper. You can substitute smoked sausage for andouille if needed. Add the shrimp at the very end to prevent them from becoming tough.

Watch Video Of How Crock Pot Jambalaya Works

This jambalaya recipe is perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a family gathering or just need a quick and easy meal for your household.

One of the best things about this recipe is that it’s incredibly versatile – you can serve it hot or cold, garnished with fresh herbs or without.

For storage purposes, let your jambalaya cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container in the refrigerator or freezer.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Crock Pot Jambalaya

What type of sausage should I use in my jambalaya?

I recommend using Andouille sausage for its smoky flavor and firm texture. It’s also relatively inexpensive compared to other types of sausage.

Can I substitute chicken breasts for chicken thighs?

Yes, you can use either chicken breasts or thighs in your jambalaya recipe. Chicken breasts will cook more quickly than thighs, but they’ll be slightly drier as well.

How do I prevent the rice from becoming mushy in my jambalaya?

To prevent the rice from becoming mushy, make sure to cook it separately from the rest of the ingredients. You can also add a small amount of oil or butter to the rice while it’s cooking to help it stay fluffy.

Can I make jambalaya in a slow cooker instead of a crock pot?

Yes, you can make jambalaya in a slow cooker if you prefer. Just be aware that cooking times may vary depending on your slow cooker’s temperature settings.

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