Cajun Chicken Jambalaya

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Get ready to spice up your dinner table with this hearty Cajun Chicken Jambalaya. Bursting with smoky sausage, tender chicken, and a medley of colorful peppers and onions, this dish is a celebration of bold Southern flavors. Each bite is a perfect harmony of juicy meat, fragrant rice, and the unmistakable kick of Cajun seasoning that keeps you coming back for more.

Perfect for a weeknight dinner or to impress guests at a gathering, this one-pot wonder is as comforting as it is vibrant. It’s easy to prepare yet packed with complex layers of flavor that will transport you straight to Louisiana. Whether you’re new to jambalaya or a seasoned fan, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Cajun Chicken Jambalaya

You’ll love this Cajun Chicken Jambalaya because it combines rich, savory flavors with just the right amount of spice. The dish is easy to make in a single pot, which means minimal cleanup. Plus, it’s versatile — you can adjust the heat level or add seafood for your own twist. The comforting rice and colorful veggies make it a complete meal, ready to feed the whole family.

What Kind of Sausage Should I Use?

For an authentic jambalaya, smoked andouille sausage is the best choice. Its bold, smoky flavor pairs perfectly with Cajun spices and elevates the dish. If andouille isn’t available, you can substitute with another smoked sausage, such as kielbasa or even a spicy chorizo for a different but equally delicious result.

Ingredients for the Cajun Chicken Jambalaya

This Cajun Chicken Jambalaya recipe comes together with a handful of fresh, flavorful ingredients that create a bold and hearty dish. Each ingredient plays a key role in building the rich layers of flavor that jambalaya is known for.

• Chicken thighs: Juicy and flavorful, chicken thighs hold up well during cooking and soak in all the spices.
• Andouille sausage: Smoky and spicy, this sausage adds authentic Cajun character to the dish.
• Long grain rice: The base of the jambalaya, absorbing all the flavorful broth and spices.
• Bell peppers: Red and green bell peppers provide sweetness and color.
• Onion: Adds a savory depth and sweetness as it cooks down.
• Celery: A classic part of the Cajun “holy trinity,” it brings an aromatic crunch.
• Garlic: Infuses the dish with warm, pungent flavor.
• Cajun seasoning: The star of the show, bringing heat, spice, and a smoky undertone.
• Chicken broth: Adds moisture and intensifies the savory flavors.
• Diced tomatoes: Give a subtle acidity and depth to balance the dish.

How To Make the Cajun Chicken Jambalaya

Step 1: Sear the Meat

In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken thighs, seasoned with a bit of salt and pepper, and sear until browned on both sides. Remove and set aside. Add the andouille sausage slices and cook until browned. Remove and set aside with the chicken.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

In the same pot, add more oil if needed and sauté the onion, bell peppers, and celery until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for another minute.

Step 3: Build the Base

Stir in the Cajun seasoning, coating the vegetables evenly. Add the rice, diced tomatoes, and chicken broth, stirring to combine. Nestle the browned chicken and sausage back into the pot.

Step 4: Simmer and Finish

Bring everything to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 25–30 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid has been absorbed. Fluff with a fork and serve hot.

Serving and Storing Cajun Chicken Jambalaya

This Cajun Chicken Jambalaya is hearty enough to feed 6 hungry people, making it ideal for family dinners or casual entertaining. Serve it straight from the pot for a rustic presentation that invites everyone to dig in. Garnish with chopped parsley or green onions for a pop of color and freshness.

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it gently on the stove with a splash of chicken broth to loosen the rice and keep it moist. This dish also freezes well for up to 2 months, perfect for meal prep.

What to Serve With Cajun Chicken Jambalaya?

Garlic Bread

Warm, buttery garlic bread is perfect for mopping up any flavorful juices.

Green Salad

A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast to the rich jambalaya.

Cornbread

Sweet and tender cornbread is a classic Southern pairing that complements the heat of the dish.

Roasted Okra

For an authentic Southern touch, roasted okra adds a unique texture and flavor.

Coleslaw

Creamy coleslaw provides a cool, crunchy side that balances the spiciness.

Sauteed Greens

Collard greens or mustard greens sautéed with garlic make a savory, earthy side.

Fried Green Tomatoes

These tangy, crispy bites are a delightful complement to the jambalaya.

Want More Dinner Ideas with a Twist?

If you love this Cajun Chicken Jambalaya, you’ll want to try these other flavorful recipes:

• Creamy Beef and Shells for a comforting pasta dish.
• Stovetop Creamy Ground Beef Pasta that comes together quickly.
• Cheesesteak Tortellini in Rich Provolone Sauce when you crave cheesy goodness.
• One Pot Smoked Sausage Pasta for a smoky, savory option.
• Creamy Ground Beef Alfredo Pasta with its luscious sauce.

Save This Cajun Chicken Jambalaya For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you use extra spice or keep it mild? Did you add shrimp for a seafood twist?

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too — let’s help each other cook smarter.

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