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Slow Cooker Cajun Jambalaya

cajun jambalaya recipe

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb chicken thighs, cut into bite-size pieces
  • 1 lb smoked Andouille sausage, sliced
  • 1 green bell pepper, diced
  • 1 onion, diced
  • 2 celery stalks, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 14-oz can diced tomatoes
  • 2 cups long-grain rice
  • 3 cups chicken broth
  • 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning
  • 1 tsp dried thyme
  • 1 bay leaf
  • 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Brown the sausage in a large skillet over medium-high heat until caramelized (3-4 minutes). Transfer to slow cooker with a slotted spoon.
  2. In the same skillet, brown chicken pieces until golden on all sides but not fully cooked (5-6 minutes). Transfer to slow cooker.
  3. Sauté bell pepper, onion, and celery in the same skillet until softened (5-6 minutes). Add garlic and cook for 1 more minute. Transfer to slow cooker.
  4. Add diced tomatoes, uncooked rice, chicken broth, Cajun seasoning, thyme, bay leaf, cayenne, oregano, salt and pepper to the slow cooker. Stir to combine.
  5. Cover and cook on Low for 4-5 hours, or until rice is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.
  6. If adding shrimp, stir them in during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
  7. Once cooking is complete, gently fluff the rice with a fork. Remove bay leaf and adjust seasonings.
  8. Let rest uncovered for 10 minutes before serving.
  9. Garnish with sliced green onions and chopped fresh parsley before serving.

Notes

  • For the most authentic flavor, look for true Andouille sausage, but smoked kielbasa can work as a substitute.
  • Long-grain rice works best in this recipe. Brown rice will require additional liquid and cooking time.
  • For a spicier version, add more cayenne pepper or include a diced jalapeño with the vegetables.
  • The jambalaya will thicken as it stands – if it seems too soupy initially, let it rest uncovered for 10-15 minutes before serving.
  • Nutrition facts are estimates and may vary based on ingredients used, portion sizes, and preparation methods.

Nutrition

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