Chicken sausage jambalaya offers a delightful taste of Cajun cooking that can liven up any dinner table. This one-pot recipe, perfect for a Dutch oven, simplifies cooking and cleanup. With its rich flavors and hearty ingredients, it promises to please everyone. Plus, it’s easy to prepare, making it ideal for busy evenings.
For anyone looking to whip up a delicious meal that feels special yet is straightforward, this dish is a great choice. Keep reading to learn how to create this delicious jambalaya and enjoy a comforting taste of the South right at home!
Key Takeaway
- Chicken sausage jambalaya is a one-pot dish that is easy to make.
- It includes rice, sausage, chicken, and tasty vegetables.
- This dish is perfect for family dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients
Credits: Mr. Make It Happen
To create a tasty chicken and sausage jambalaya, it’s key to gather the right ingredients. This one-pot dish features hearty proteins, vibrant veggies, and seasoned rice for a balanced, Cajun-inspired meal. Here’s what to include: (1)
Core Ingredients
- Proteins:
- Smoked sausage, such as andouille or kielbasa (10-12 oz.), sliced into rounds.
- Chicken thighs or breasts (around 1 pound), cut into bite-sized pieces.
- Vegetables (The Holy Trinity of Cajun Cooking):
- Onion (1 medium, diced), bell pepper (1/2 to 1, diced), and celery (2-3 stalks, diced).
- Garlic (3-4 cloves, minced) for extra flavor.
- Seasonings:
- Cajun seasoning (3-4 tablespoons) for spice and flavor.
- Bay leaves (1-2) for a fragrant touch.
- Grains and Liquids:
- Long-grain rice (1.5-2 cups, uncooked).
- Chicken stock (3-4 cups) for the cooking liquid.
- Tomato paste (optional, 1-2 tablespoons) for depth.
- Worcestershire sauce (1-2 teaspoons) to boost umami.
- Garnish:
- Chopped green onions or parsley to add freshness.
Preparation Notes
Start by browning the proteins to lock in flavor, then sauté the vegetables in the same pot. Deglaze the pan with stock or a splash of beer, add the rice, and let it simmer until the liquid absorbs. Finish with a sprinkle of green onions for a lively touch.
Jambalaya’s flexibility makes it perfect for gatherings or weeknight dinners, and its flavors get even better with a little time. Readers can adjust it by using brown rice or different vegetables to match personal tastes. Keep reading to find out how to put everything together!
Instructions
Making chicken sausage jambalaya is an easy and rewarding experience. Here’s how to do it step by step:
- Prepare the Dutch Oven: Start by heating the Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Pour in some avocado oil and let it warm up. This oil is key for cooking the sausage and vegetables evenly, creating a solid base for the dish.
- Cook the Sausage: Add the sliced smoked sausage to the pot. Cooking it for about 3-5 minutes will give it a nice brown and crispy texture, enhancing the overall flavor. Once it’s ready, use a slotted spoon to remove the sausage, leaving the flavorful fat in the pot.
- Sauté the Vegetables: In the same pot, toss in the chopped onion, bell pepper, and celery. This combination is known as the “holy trinity” of Cajun cooking. Cook for about 5 minutes until the vegetables soften. Scraping the bottom of the pot will incorporate those tasty brown bits from the sausage.
- Add Aromatics: Next, stir in the minced garlic, thyme, bay leaves, and half of the Cajun seasoning. Cook everything for another 30 seconds. The aroma will fill the kitchen and set the stage for a delicious meal!
- Incorporate Rice and Other Ingredients: Time to add the long-grain rice to the pot. Stir well so the rice gets coated in the oil and veggie mix. Next, mix in the tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, the remaining Cajun seasoning, chicken thighs, cooked sausage, and chicken stock.
- Simmer: Bring the mixture to a boil. Once it’s boiling, reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Let it simmer for about 25-30 minutes or until the rice is soft and has absorbed most of the liquid. This is where the magic happens!
- Final Touches: After cooking, remove the pot from heat and let it sit covered for an additional 5 minutes. This resting period allows the flavors to meld together nicely. Before serving, fluff the rice with a fork for a nice texture.
- Serve: Finally, garnish the jambalaya with some chopped green onions. This dish pairs well with cornbread or a simple salad. Every bite is a celebration of flavors! Enjoy the warmth and comfort of this delightful dish.
Tips for Success
Making the perfect jambalaya is simple with a few handy tips. Here are some suggestions to keep in mind:
- Adjusting Spice Levels: For those who prefer milder dishes, it’s easy to tone down the Cajun seasoning or choose a less spicy sausage. Everyone has different preferences, so adjusting the heat level can make it more enjoyable for all.
- Customizing Ingredients: Jambalaya is wonderfully flexible. One can easily add shrimp, change the type of sausage, or even toss in some extra veggies. This allows for creativity in the kitchen and helps use up whatever ingredients are on hand.
- Storage: Leftovers make for a great treat! They can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Surprisingly, the flavors often improve after sitting for a day, making the next meal taste even better.
With these tips in mind, preparing chicken sausage jambalaya becomes a breeze. It’s a dish that appeals to many and is perfect for any occasion throughout the year. (2)
Conclusion
Chicken sausage jambalaya stands out as a tasty and easy dish to prepare in a Dutch oven. This recipe focuses on fresh ingredients and straightforward steps. It offers a delightful meal for families and is versatile enough to be enjoyed throughout the year. Whether it’s a cozy weeknight dinner or a gathering with friends, this dish brings flavor and comfort to the table.
FAQ
What is the best way to add chicken to the jambalaya?
To add chicken to the jambalaya, you can use boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs. Brown the chicken in the dutch oven before adding the other ingredients. This helps to lock in the flavor and ensure the chicken is cooked through.
What type of rice should I use for the jambalaya?
For the best texture, use long-grain white rice or brown rice. Avoid using short-grain or instant rice, as they can become mushy in the stew-like jambalaya. Add the rice towards the end of the cooking process so it doesn’t overcook.
Can I add shrimp to the jambalaya?
Absolutely! Cajun and Creole jambalaya often includes shrimp in addition to the chicken and sausage. Add the raw shrimp towards the end of the cooking time, just until it’s cooked through. You can use peeled and deveined shrimp to make it easier.
What type of sausage should I use?
Traditional jambalaya recipes call for andouille sausage, which has a spicy, smoky flavor. You can also use other smoked or cajun-style sausages. Add the sausage at the same time as the chicken to allow it to brown and develop flavor.
Can I make this recipe in an air fryer?
While this recipe is designed for a dutch oven on the stovetop, you could potentially adapt it for an air fryer. You would need to cook the components separately – brown the chicken and sausage, then add the veggies and rice. Assemble the full dish in an airtight container to finish cooking in the air fryer.
How do I get the most flavor in the jambalaya?
To maximize the flavor, be sure to:
- Brown the chicken and sausage well to develop a nice crust
- Sauté the onions, bell peppers, and celery until softened
- Add plenty of cajun seasoning, garlic, and bay leaves
- Use a good quality chicken broth or stock
- Don’t be afraid of a bit of cayenne pepper for heat
The key is building layers of flavor throughout the cooking process.
Can I make this jambalaya ahead of time?
Yes, jambalaya is a great make-ahead dish. Once cooked, allow it to cool completely then store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. To reheat, you can warm it on the stovetop or in the oven until heated through. The flavors will continue to meld together over time.
References:
- https://www.apinchofhealthy.com/chicken-and-sausage-jambalaya/
- https://www.theseasonedmom.com/chicken-and-sausage-jambalaya/
Related Articles:
- https://milkwoodrestaurant.com/chicken-sausage-jambalaya-slow-cooker/
- https://milkwoodrestaurant.com/chicken-sausage-instant-pot/
- https://milkwoodrestaurant.com/chicken-sausage-jambalaya-recipe-dutch-oven/
Was this helpful?
Hi there! I’m a food enthusiast and journalist, and I have a real passion for food that goes beyond the kitchen. I love my dream job and I’m lucky enough to be able to share my knowledge with readers of several large media outlets. My specialty is writing engaging food-related content, and I take pride in being able to connect with my audience. I’m known for my creativity in the kitchen, and I’m confident that I can be the perfect guide for anyone looking to take their culinary journey to the next level.
