Jambalaya is a classic Southern dish that blends bold Creole flavors, hearty proteins, and aromatic spices into a satisfying meal. This Slow Cooker Jambalaya recipe simplifies the cooking process, allowing you to enjoy this traditional dish with minimal effort. The slow cooker does all the heavy lifting, melding sausage, shrimp, chicken, and vegetables into a rich, flavorful stew. Whether youâre hosting a party, feeding a family, or craving a taste of Louisiana, this dish delivers authentic flavor and comforting warmth in every bite.
Ingredients
1 pound chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
12 ounces smoked sausage, sliced
1 pound raw shrimp, peeled and deveined
1 medium onion, diced
1 green bell pepper, diced
2 celery stalks, chopped
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes with juice
2 cups chicken broth
1 cup long-grain white rice
2 teaspoons Cajun seasoning (or to taste)
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
œ teaspoon thyme
œ teaspoon oregano
œ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra spice)
2 bay leaves
Salt and pepper, to taste
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Hot sauce (optional, for serving)
Preparation
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Begin by prepping all your ingredients. Chop the vegetables, cut the chicken, and slice the sausage. Ensure the shrimp is peeled and deveined.
Step 2: Combine in the Slow Cooker
Add the chicken, sausage, onion, bell pepper, celery, garlic, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, thyme, oregano, cayenne pepper (if using), and bay leaves to the slow cooker. Stir everything together to distribute the spices evenly.
Step 3: Cook on Low Heat
Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on low for 4â6 hours or on high for 2â3 hours. This allows the flavors to meld and the chicken to cook through.
Step 4: Add the Rice
About 30 minutes before serving, add the rice to the slow cooker. Stir it in and ensure itâs submerged in the liquid. Continue cooking on low until the rice is tender and has absorbed the flavors.
Step 5: Add the Shrimp
10â15 minutes before serving, add the shrimp to the slow cooker. Stir gently and cook until the shrimp turn pink and are fully cooked.
Step 6: Adjust Seasoning
Taste the jambalaya and adjust the seasoning with salt, pepper, or additional Cajun seasoning as needed. Remove the bay leaves before serving.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Ladle the jambalaya into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve with hot sauce on the side for an extra kick of heat.
Variations
Vegetarian Jambalaya: Replace the chicken and sausage with plant-based alternatives and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
Seafood Jambalaya: Use a mix of shrimp, crab, and scallops for a seafood-centric dish.
Spicy Jambalaya: Add extra cayenne pepper, hot sauce, or diced jalapeños for more heat.
Gluten-Free Version: Ensure all ingredients, especially the sausage and seasonings, are certified gluten-free.
Cooking Notes
For a smokier flavor, use andouille sausage.
If the jambalaya appears too dry, add a splash of chicken broth during cooking.
Use parboiled rice for firmer grains that wonât become mushy in the slow cooker.
Serving Suggestions
Pair this jambalaya with crusty French bread or cornbread to soak up the delicious juices.
Serve with a side of collard greens or a simple green salad for a balanced meal.
Offer a selection of hot sauces to let guests customize the spice level.
Tips
Avoid overcooking the shrimp by adding them only in the final minutes of cooking.
For added depth of flavor, brown the chicken and sausage in a skillet before adding them to the slow cooker.
Prep the vegetables the night before for an even quicker assembly in the morning.
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cooking Time
4â6 hours (low) or 2â3 hours (high)
Total Time
4.5â6.5 hours
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
Calories: 400
Protein: 30g
Sodium: 900mg
Carbohydrates: 28g
Fat: 18g
FAQs
Q: Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, but brown rice takes longer to cook, so you may need to adjust the cooking time or pre-cook it slightly before adding it to the slow cooker.
Q: How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth if needed.
Q: Can I freeze jambalaya?
Yes, you can freeze it for up to 3 months. However, the rice may become slightly mushy when reheated. For best results, freeze the jambalaya without the rice and add fresh-cooked rice when serving.
Conclusion
Slow Cooker Jambalaya is a true testament to the rich culinary traditions of Louisiana. Its blend of spices, hearty proteins, and aromatic vegetables makes it a crowd-pleaser thatâs easy to prepare. Whether youâre a seasoned jambalaya lover or trying it for the first time, this slow cooker recipe ensures maximum flavor with minimal effort. Gather your ingredients, set your slow cooker, and let the magic happen! Serve this warm, comforting dish at your next family dinner or party, and watch as everyone comes back for seconds.
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