The BEST Jambalaya Recipe Ever

5.0 from 1 vote

A spicy Jambalaya is welcomed at anytime in my home. This is a flavorful one pot meal that is quick and easy to make. Get ready to bring a taste of Louisiana to your kitchen with this delicious and hearty meal. The bold flavors, smoky andouille sausage, juicy shrimp, and tender chicken, is pure comfort food. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just yourself, this recipe is so easy to follow and guaranteed to impress. So grab your ingredients and let’s make the best jambalaya ever!

Why you’ll love this recipe:

Authentic Louisiana Taste: this Jambalaya recipe has all the flavors of Louisiana that are satisfying and delicious.
Easy One Pot Meal: All this good flavor is done in one pot, making it a quick and mess free meal.
Perfect for Meal Prep: Good for a family dinner or can be prepped ahead for the week.
Customizable: Some ingredients can be swapped to suit your dietary need or preferences.

Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

This Post May Contain Affiliate Links

Watch This Video!

Ingredients

Jambalaya is a beloved Creole and Cajun dish that blends bold flavors with hearty ingredients, each serving a specific purpose. The “holy trinity” of onion, bell pepper, and celery forms the aromatic base, providing depth and balance. Andouille sausage adds smoky richness, while chicken and shrimp bring layers of savory and briny flavors. Long-grain rice absorbs the seasonings and broth, creating a satisfying texture. Garlic, thyme, paprika, and cayenne pepper infuse warmth and spice, while tomatoes (in Creole-style jambalaya) add acidity and sweetness. The combination of these ingredients results in a dish that is deeply flavorful, well-balanced, and representative of Louisiana’s rich culinary heritage

Chicken Breast
Andouille Sausage
Shrimp
Chicken Broth
Parboiled Rice
Crushed Tomatoes
Green Bell Pepper
Celery
Onion
Garlic
Worcestershire Sauce
Cajun Seasoning
Red Pepper Flakes
Black Pepper
Salt
Canola Oil

Substitutions

If you need to substitute ingredients in jambalaya, there are plenty of options without compromising flavor. Instead of andouille sausage, try smoked kielbasa, chorizo, or even turkey sausage for a lighter option. If shrimp isn’t available, diced fish or crab meat can work, or you can omit seafood altogether for a land-based version. Chicken thighs can be swapped for boneless breasts or even turkey. For a vegetarian jambalaya, use plant-based sausage and mushrooms for a meaty texture. If you don’t have the traditional “holy trinity” of onion, celery, and bell pepper, try leeks, carrots, or fennel for a similar aromatic base. Brown rice or quinoa can replace long-grain rice for a different texture, while smoked paprika and cumin can add depth if cayenne or thyme aren’t on hand. These substitutions allow for a flexible and still flavorful jambalaya experience.

What You Will Need

Instructions for Jambalaya

Step 1: Season the Chicken

Place the chicken pieces in a large bowl and season with 1 tbsp of the Cajun seasoning. Make sure each piece has been coated with the seasoning, then set the chicken aside for later.

Step 2: Brown the Chicken

Heat the canola oil in a large pan or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the seasoned chicken and allow it to brown for 5 minutes. After 5 minutes, remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside.

Step 3: Cook the Andouille Sausage

In the same pan, add the sliced andouille sausage. Cook for 5 minutes, allowing it to brown. Remove the sausage from the pan and set aside.

Step 4: Sauté the Vegetables

Again to the same pan, add the onion, bell pepper, celery, and garlic. Sauté the vegetables for 3 minutes until they are fragrant.

Step 5: Season and Add Tomatoes

Stir in the salt, black pepper, red pepper flakes, remaining Cajun seasoning, and Worcestershire sauce. Mix well. Pour in the crushed tomatoes and stir to combine.

Step 6: Add Chicken Broth and Parboiled Rice

Pour in the chicken broth, mix well, and bring to a light simmer. Stir in the parboiled rice, ensuring it is evenly distributed.

Step 7: Simmer with Chicken and Sausage

Return the chicken and sausage to the pan. Reduce the heat to low, cover with a lid and simmer the jambalaya for 15 minutes.

Step 8: Add Shrimp and Final Simmer

Remove the lid and add the shrimp. Cover again and allow it to simmer for another 15 minutes, or until the shrimp are fully cooked and the rice is tender.

What to Do With Leftover Jambalaya

Leftover jambalaya can be stored in the fridge and freezer. To do both, first allow it to cool to room temperature then place in an airtight container. Jambalaya can last in the refrigerator for 3-4 days or in the freezer for up to 3 months. A tip when freezing, it is recommended to store in portion-sized container or freezer bags. This make it so much easier when reheating.

To reheat jambalaya, use the stovetop or microwave. For stovetop, add a splash of broth or water to a pan over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. When reheating in the microwave, do so in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, to prevent uneven heating. If frozen, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. Avoid overcooking to keep the rice from becoming mushy!

Frequently Asked Questions

Q:What’s the difference between Cajun and Creole jambalaya?

A: Creole jambalaya, (sometimes called “red jambalaya”) typically includes tomatoes, giving it a red tint. Cajun jambalaya (sometimes called “brown jambalaya)omits tomatoes and relies on browned meats and a flavorful stock for its rich color.

Can I use different types of protein in my jambalaya?

Yes. Jambalaya is a very versatile dish. While most recipes will have a mix of chicken, andouille sausage, and seafood, feel free to substitute with whatever you have. Some options are turkey sausage, smoked sausage, or even tofu for a plant-based version. Just know that the cooking times will vary based on any changes you make.

How do you parboil rice?

Bring a large pot of water to a boil, stir in rice, and cook for 5 minutes. Drain off the water thoroughly, and your rice is ready for any further cooking or baking steps.

Try These Other Great Recipes