Easy Cajun Jambalaya Recipe

Easy Cajun Jambalaya Recipe

Cajun Jambalaya is a classic dish with a rich history and a delicious blend of flavors. This Easy Cajun Jambalaya recipe is a simplified version of the traditional dish, perfect for busy weeknights or whenever you’re craving a taste of Louisiana. With a mix of spicy Andouille sausage, tender chicken, and aromatic vegetables, this dish is sure to be a hit with your family and friends.

Ingredients for Cajun Jambalaya

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 pound Andouille sausage, sliced
  • 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 1 large onion, chopped
  • 1 bell pepper, chopped
  • 3 stalks celery, chopped
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 cups long-grain white rice
  • 4 cups chicken broth
  • 1 bunch green onions, chopped
  • Hot sauce, for serving

How to Make Cajun Jambalaya

  1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the Andouille sausage and cook, stirring occasionally, until browned, about 5 minutes.
  2. Add the chicken to the pot and cook until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes. Remove the sausage and chicken from the pot and set aside.
  3. In the same pot, add the onion, bell pepper, celery, and garlic. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened, about 5 minutes.
  4. Add the diced tomatoes, thyme, oregano, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper to the pot. Stir to combine.
  5. Return the sausage and chicken to the pot. Add the rice and chicken broth and stir to combine.
  6. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
  7. Remove the pot from the heat and let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes. Fluff the rice with a fork.
  8. Serve the Cajun Jambalaya hot, garnished with chopped green onions and hot sauce on the side.

About the Main Ingredients

  • Andouille Sausage: A spicy, smoked sausage that adds depth of flavor to the dish.
  • Chicken Thighs: Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are used for their tender texture and rich flavor.
  • Bell Pepper, Onion, Celery, and Garlic: The classic “holy trinity” of Cajun and Creole cooking, providing a flavorful base for the dish.
  • Long-Grain White Rice: A staple in Cajun cuisine, long-grain white rice cooks up light and fluffy, absorbing the flavors of the other ingredients.
  • Cajun Seasonings: A blend of dried thyme, oregano, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper gives the dish its signature spicy and aromatic flavor profile.

Enjoy this Easy Cajun Jambalaya recipe as a satisfying and flavorful meal that’s sure to please your taste buds!

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