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
- 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.
- 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.
- In the same pot, add the onion, bell pepper, celery, and garlic. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened, about 5 minutes.
- Add the diced tomatoes, thyme, oregano, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper to the pot. Stir to combine.
- Return the sausage and chicken to the pot. Add the rice and chicken broth and stir to combine.
- 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.
- Remove the pot from the heat and let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes. Fluff the rice with a fork.
- 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!