Description
Spicy slow cooker jambalaya dances with Creole spirit, blending sausage, shrimp, and chicken in a rich, robust sauce. Hearty Louisiana flavors simmer effortlessly, inviting you to savor each bold, comforting bite of this classic southern feast.
Ingredients
Scale
Protein Ingredients:
- 1 lb (454 g) smoked sausage, sliced
- 1 lb (454 g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs, diced
- 1 lb (454 g) shrimp, peeled and deveined
Vegetable Ingredients:
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
Liquid and Seasoning Ingredients:
- 1 can (14.5 oz / 411 g) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 2 cups (473 ml) chicken broth
- 2 cups (340 g) long-grain rice
- 2 teaspoons Cajun seasoning
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt to taste
- Black pepper to taste
Garnish:
- Green onions
- Fresh parsley
Instructions
- Layer sausage, chicken, vegetables, and aromatics into the slow cooker, creating a robust foundation for the jambalaya.
- Pour chicken broth over the ingredients and sprinkle Cajun seasoning, thyme, salt, and pepper to infuse deep, spicy flavors throughout the dish.
- Incorporate diced tomatoes and rice, ensuring even distribution of ingredients for consistent cooking.
- Set slow cooker to low temperature and allow the mixture to simmer gently for 6-7 hours, or use high setting for 3-4 hours until chicken becomes fully cooked and rice reaches tender consistency.
- Approximately 30 minutes before serving, introduce shrimp to the slow cooker, stirring carefully to prevent breaking delicate seafood.
- Eliminate bay leaf, which has imparted its aromatic essence during cooking, and gently separate rice grains with a fork to create a fluffy texture.
- Transfer jambalaya to serving dishes, garnishing with freshly chopped green onions and parsley for a vibrant, fresh finish.
- Serve immediately while hot, allowing the rich, complex flavors to tantalize taste buds.
Notes
- Use andouille sausage for authentic Cajun flavor, but substitute with smoked turkey sausage for a lighter option if desired.
- Ensure chicken is cut into uniform chunks to guarantee even cooking throughout the dish.
- For a gluten-free version, swap regular rice with cauliflower rice or use certified gluten-free rice to maintain the recipe’s texture and taste.
- Reduce sodium by using low-sodium chicken broth and controlling the amount of added salt, perfect for those watching their salt intake.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 hours (on Low) or 4 hours (on High)
- Category: Lunch, Dinner
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: Cajun
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 6
- Calories: 410 kcal
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 750 mg
- Fat: 14 g
- Saturated Fat: 4.5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8.5 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 38 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 35 g
- Cholesterol: 110 mg