What You’ll Love About This Recipe
This jambalaya recipe is packed with bold flavors and is perfect for a hearty meal that everyone will enjoy.
It’s easy to make and brings a taste of Louisiana right to your kitchen. You’ll love how the smoky sausage mixes with tender chicken, fluffy rice, and a hint of spice.
It’s a one-pot wonder that saves time on both cooking and cleanup. Plus, it’s super customizable—add your favorite veggies or adjust the heat to suit your taste!
Recipe

Jambalaya is a flavorful and hearty dish originating from Louisiana, combining Creole and Cajun influences. This one-pot meal features a mix of rice, meat, and vegetables, seasoned with a blend of spices for a bold taste.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb chicken thighs, diced
- 1 lb andouille sausage, sliced
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined (optional)
- Chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions:
- Heat oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add chicken and sausage, cooking until browned. Remove and set aside.
- In the same pot, sauté onion, bell pepper, and celery until softened, about 5 minutes. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
- Stir in diced tomatoes, Cajun seasoning, paprika, thyme, and oregano. Cook for 2 minutes.
- Return the meat to the pot. Add rice and chicken broth, stirring to combine. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20 minutes.
- If using shrimp, add them in the last 5 minutes of cooking.
- Remove from heat, let sit covered for 5 minutes, then fluff with a fork. Garnish with green onions before serving.
Notes:
- Adjust Cajun seasoning to taste for more or less heat.
- For a richer flavor, use homemade chicken broth.
- Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Time:
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Servings: 6
Nutrition
This jambalaya recipe is packed with flavorful ingredients and essential nutrients. Here’s the nutritional breakdown per serving:
Nutrient | Amount |
---|---|
Calories | 450 kcal |
Protein | 28 g |
Carbohydrates | 40 g |
Fat | 18 g |
Fiber | 4 g |
Sugar | 6 g |
Sodium | 850 mg |
What To Serve With It
A few classic sides can turn this jambalaya into a full, satisfying meal. I love pairing it with buttery cornbread—it soaks up the spicy sauce perfectly.
A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette cuts through the richness, while steamed okra or collard greens add a Southern touch.
If I’m feeling fancy, I’ll throw in some garlic bread for extra crunch. And don’t forget pickled veggies or hot sauce for a kick!
These combos balance the flavors and make every bite better. Trust me, once you try these, you won’t want jambalaya any other way.