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A serving of delicious Cajun Jambalaya with rice, peppers, and shrimp.

Cajun Jambalaya

A comforting and flavorful one-pot dish featuring rice, chicken, sausage, shrimp, and vibrant vegetables, perfect for busy weeknights.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Course Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine Cajun, Southern
Servings 6 servings
Calories 450 kcal

Ingredients
  

Meats

  • 1 pound chicken, diced
  • 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 1 pound sausage, sliced Andouille or smoked sausage recommended for added flavor.

Vegetables

  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 1 bell pepper, chopped
  • 2 stalks celery, chopped
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced

Liquids

  • 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
  • 4 cups chicken broth Use low-sodium if preferred.

Grains

  • 2 cups long-grain rice Keep rice separate and soft.

Seasonings

  • 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning Adjust to taste.
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil Use real butter for added richness.

Garnish

  • Green onions, for garnish

Instructions
 

Cooking the Meat

  • In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chicken and sausage, cooking until browned.
  • Cook until the chicken has a golden crust and the sausage looks caramelized; this searing builds the flavor base.

Cooking the Vegetables

  • Stir in onion, bell pepper, celery, and garlic. Cook until vegetables are tender.
  • Cook until the vegetables are glossy and soft, about 5 to 7 minutes.

Adding Liquids and Spices

  • Add diced tomatoes, chicken broth, Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil.
  • Let the mixture come to a steady boil so the spices bloom and the tomatoes begin to break down.

Cooking the Rice

  • Stir in rice, reduce heat, cover, and let simmer for 20-25 minutes or until rice is cooked and liquid is absorbed.
  • Keep the pot covered and check at 18 minutes for doneness.

Adding Shrimp and Final Touches

  • Add shrimp to the pot in the last 5 minutes of cooking.
  • Once cooked, fluff with a fork and garnish with green onions before serving.

Notes

Jambalaya improves in flavor when reheated. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Nutrition

Serving: 1gCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 50gProtein: 30gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 4gSodium: 800mgFiber: 3gSugar: 4g
Keyword Cajun Cuisine, Comfort Food, Jambalaya, one-pot meal, Weeknight Dinner
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