What You’ll Love About This Recipe
This jambalaya is packed with bold flavors and easy to make, perfect for a cozy family dinner or a fun gathering with friends. You’ll love how it brings the taste of Louisiana right to your kitchen!
- One-Pot Wonder – Less cleanup means more time to enjoy your meal.
- Customizable Heat – Adjust the spice level to suit your taste, from mild to fiery.
- Crowd-Pleasing – Loaded with sausage, shrimp, and veggies, it’s a dish everyone will rave about.
Recipe
Jambalaya is a classic Louisiana dish that combines Creole and Cajun flavors with a mix of meats, vegetables, and rice. This hearty one-pot meal is perfect for feeding a crowd and brings a taste of the South to your table.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb chicken thighs, diced
- 1 lb andouille sausage, sliced
- 1 large onion, diced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 1 ½ cups long-grain white rice
- 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 2 bay leaves
- ½ lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Green onions, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
- Heat oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add chicken and sausage, cooking until browned (about 5-7 minutes). 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, chicken broth, rice, Cajun seasoning, thyme, oregano, and bay leaves. Bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20 minutes.
- Add shrimp and cooked meats, stirring gently. Cover and cook for 5-7 minutes until shrimp are pink and rice is tender.
- Remove bay leaves, season with salt and pepper, and garnish with green onions before serving.
Notes:
- Adjust Cajun seasoning to taste for more or less spice.
- For a smokier flavor, use smoked sausage.
Equipment:
- Large pot or Dutch oven
- Wooden spoon
Time:
- Prep time: 15 minutes
- Cooking time: 40 minutes
Cuisine:
– Creole/Cajun
Serving:
– 6-8 servings
Nutrition
This jambalaya recipe is packed with flavor and nutrients. Here’s the nutritional breakdown per serving:
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 450 kcal |
| Protein | 30g |
| Carbohydrates | 50g |
| Fat | 15g |
| Fiber | 5g |
| Sodium | 1200mg |
What To Serve With It
Wondering what to pair with your jambalaya? I love serving mine with crusty French bread to soak up all that rich flavor, or a simple green salad for a fresh contrast. If you’re feeling extra hungry, some buttery cornbread or smoky grilled sausage makes the meal even heartier.
Pairing Suggestions
When I’m making jambalaya, I like to think about what flavors will complement it best without stealing the spotlight. A crisp, cold beer or a zesty white wine cuts through the richness, while a sweet tea balances the spice. For something stronger, a spicy Bloody Mary or a fruity sangria works wonders. If you’re not into alcohol, try lemonade with a hint of mint—it’s invigorating and light. I’ve found these pairings let the jambalaya shine while adding just the right touch. Experiment to see what you love, but keep it simple—let the dish be the star.
Complementary Side Dishes
Just like finding the perfect drink to go with jambalaya, picking the right sides can make the meal even better. I love serving it with warm cornbread; its slightly sweet flavor balances the spice perfectly. A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette adds freshness, cutting through the richness. Sometimes, I’ll throw in some roasted okra or sautéed green beans for a veggie boost. For a heartier option, creamy coleslaw works wonders—I think it complements the smoky flavors. And don’t forget crusty French bread for soaking up every last bit of that delicious sauce! These sides truly elevate the whole experience.
