Chicken and Sausage Jambalaya Recipe

Chicken and sausage jambalaya is a classic one-pot dish that captures the bold flavors of Louisiana cuisine. This hearty and flavorful meal combines tender chicken, smoky sausage, aromatic vegetables, and well-seasoned rice for a satisfying dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or hosting a gathering, this jambalaya recipe will bring the taste of New Orleans to your table.

In this article, we’ll walk you through the step-by-step process of making chicken and sausage jambalaya, offer helpful cooking tips, and answer common FAQs to ensure your dish comes out perfect every time.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Packed with flavor – A combination of Cajun spices, smoked sausage, and slow-cooked ingredients creates a deep, savory taste.
One-pot meal – Easy to prepare and minimizes cleanup.
Customizable – Can be adjusted with shrimp, different sausages, or varying spice levels.
Feeds a crowd – A great dish for gatherings and leftovers taste even better!

Ingredients

Protein and Vegetables:

1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
12 ounces smoked sausage (such as andouille or kielbasa), sliced
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 onion, diced
1 bell pepper, diced (red or green)
2 celery stalks, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes
1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon hot sauce (optional, for spice)

Rice and Seasonings:

1 ½ cups long-grain white rice
3 cups chicken broth
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
½ teaspoon black pepper
½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for spice)
2 bay leaves
2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: Brown the Meat

Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat.
Add the chicken pieces and season with a pinch of salt and black pepper. Cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until lightly browned. Remove from the pot and set aside.
In the same pot, add the sliced sausage and cook until browned, about 3 minutes. Remove and set aside with the chicken.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

Lower the heat to medium and add the onion, bell pepper, and celery (the Holy Trinity of Cajun cooking). Sauté for 4-5 minutes until softened.
Stir in the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
Pour in the diced tomatoes, Worcestershire sauce, and hot sauce. Stir well, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot.

Step 3: Cook the Rice

Add the rice, chicken broth, smoked paprika, thyme, oregano, salt, black pepper, cayenne pepper, and bay leaves to the pot.
Return the chicken and sausage to the pot and stir everything together.
Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low.
Cover and simmer for 25-30 minutes, or until the rice is tender and has absorbed all the liquid.

Step 4: Finishing Touches

Remove from heat and discard the bay leaves.
Fluff the jambalaya with a fork and let it sit for 5 minutes before serving.
Garnish with chopped green onions and fresh parsley.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!

Jambalaya is best served hot and fresh, accompanied by a side of cornbread, garlic bread, or a simple green salad.

Pro Tips for the Best Jambalaya

Use chicken thighs instead of chicken breast – Thighs remain juicy and flavorful after simmering.
Brown the sausage well – This adds a depth of flavor to the dish.
Don’t over-stir the rice – Too much stirring can cause it to become mushy.
Let it rest before serving – Allowing the flavors to meld enhances the overall taste.
Adjust the spice level – Add extra cayenne, hot sauce, or smoked paprika for more heat.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What’s the Difference Between Jambalaya and Gumbo?

Jambalaya is a rice-based dish where the rice is cooked with the ingredients, absorbing all the flavors. Gumbo, on the other hand, is a thick stew often served over rice and made with a roux for thickening.

2. Can I Add Shrimp to This Jambalaya?

Absolutely! If adding shrimp, stir them in during the last 5 minutes of cooking so they don’t overcook.

3. Can I Use Brown Rice Instead of White Rice?

Yes, but you’ll need to increase the cooking time by about 10-15 minutes and possibly add more broth.

4. How Can I Make This Dish Less Spicy?

Reduce or omit the cayenne pepper and hot sauce. Using a milder sausage like kielbasa instead of andouille will also reduce the spice level.

5. Can I Make Jambalaya in a Slow Cooker?

Yes! Brown the chicken and sausage first, then transfer all ingredients to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 4-6 hours or high for 2-3 hours. Add the rice in the last 30 minutes to prevent it from becoming mushy.

6. How Do I Store Leftovers?

Store leftover jambalaya in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of broth or water to rehydrate the rice.

7. Can I Freeze Jambalaya?

Yes! Allow it to cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stovetop.

8. What Side Dishes Go Well with Jambalaya?

Cornbread – Sweet and savory balance to the spices.
Coleslaw – A cool, crunchy contrast.
Grilled or sautéed okra – A classic Southern touch.
Green salad with vinaigrette – A light complement to the rich flavors.

9. Can I Make This Dish Vegetarian?

Yes! Replace the chicken and sausage with smoked tofu or plant-based sausage, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

10. What Is the Best Way to Reheat Jambalaya?

Reheat on the stovetop over low heat with a splash of broth to prevent the rice from drying out. Alternatively, microwave in 30-second increments, stirring in between.

Final Thoughts

Chicken and sausage jambalaya is a bold and satisfying dish that embodies the heart of Louisiana cooking. With its deep flavors, easy preparation, and one-pot convenience, it’s a must-try for any home cook. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced chef, this recipe delivers a delicious meal that’s sure to impress!

So grab your ingredients, fire up the stove, and enjoy a taste of the South with this hearty jambalaya recipe. Bon appétit!