Print

Cajun Chicken Jambalaya

Cajun Chicken Jambalaya
Print Recipe

Cajun Chicken Jambalaya is a hearty, spicy Southern dish combining tender chicken, smoky andouille sausage, fresh vegetables, and flavorful rice simmered in a rich blend of Cajun seasonings. This one-pot meal offers bold, vibrant flavors with a perfect balance of spice, smoke, and savory notes, ideal for any occasion from comforting weeknight dinners to festive gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale

Protein

  • 1.5 lbs chicken thighs or breasts, cut into pieces
  • 12 oz andouille sausage, sliced

Vegetables (The Holy Trinity)

  • 1 cup diced bell peppers (mixed colors)
  • 1 cup diced onions
  • 1 cup diced celery
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Liquids & Canned

  • 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
  • 3 cups chicken broth

Grains & Seasonings

  • 1.5 cups long grain white rice
  • 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning blend (paprika, cayenne, thyme, oregano, etc.)
  • 1 tsp dried thyme (optional)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 tbsp cooking oil (vegetable or olive oil)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Holy Trinity: Dice the bell peppers, onions, and celery. Heat oil in a large heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat. Sauté the diced vegetables for 5-7 minutes until softened and fragrant.
  2. Brown the Chicken and Sausage: Season the chicken pieces with Cajun seasoning. Add them to the pot and brown on all sides. Then add the sliced andouille sausage and cook until browned, stirring occasionally.
  3. Add Garlic and Spices: Stir in the minced garlic, additional Cajun seasoning if desired, and dried thyme or oregano. Cook for about 1 minute to release aromas.
  4. Incorporate Tomatoes and Broth: Pour in the diced tomatoes and chicken broth. Scrape the bottom of the pot to lift any caramelized bits. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
  5. Add Rice and Simmer: Stir in the rice, cover the pot, and reduce heat to low. Cook gently for about 20 minutes until rice is tender and has absorbed the broth. Avoid stirring to prevent mushiness.
  6. Finish and Garnish: Fluff the jambalaya with a fork. Sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley and green onions. Let sit covered off heat for 5 minutes before serving to meld flavors and firm the rice.

Notes

  • Use bone-in chicken for extra broth richness and moisture retention.
  • Keep heat low and avoid stirring while rice cooks to prevent mushiness.
  • Make homemade Cajun seasoning for fresher, balanced flavors and controlled spice level.
  • Let the dish rest covered off heat for 5 minutes after cooking.
  • Use a heavy-bottomed pot to prevent scorching and promote even cooking.

Nutrition

Keywords: Cajun, Jambalaya, Chicken, One-Pot Meal, Southern Cuisine, Spicy, Comfort Food, Gluten-Free

Find it online: https://eazyum.com/cajun-chicken-jambalaya/