Chicken Sausage Jambalaya Slow Cooker: Super Easy Recipe for Everyone
Making a delicious chicken sausage jambalaya in a slow cooker is easy and rewarding. This dish combines flavorful ingredients that create a satisfying meal for any occasion. It’s perfect for a cozy dinner at home or a gathering with friends. With just a few straightforward steps, anyone can bring the taste of Cajun cooking into their kitchen. Keep reading to discover how to create this tasty jambalaya that will impress family and friends alike!
Key Takeaway
- This jambalaya uses chicken thighs and smoked sausage for rich flavor.
- It cooks in a slow cooker, making it easy and convenient.
- You can customize it with shrimp or adjust the spice level.
Ingredients for Chicken Sausage Jambalaya
Credits: Coop Can Cook
To make a tasty chicken sausage jambalaya, gather these ingredients:
- Proteins:
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 12 oz smoked beef sausage or Andouille sausage, sliced
- Vegetables:
- 1 large onion, diced
- 5 stalks celery, diced
- 1/2 medium red bell pepper, diced
- 1/2 medium green bell pepper, diced
- 1 tbsp minced garlic
- Liquids:
- 3.5 cups chicken broth
- 6 oz tomato paste or one can of crushed tomatoes
- Seasonings:
- 3.5 tsp Creole seasoning or Cajun seasoning
- 2 tsp dried oregano
- 3 bay leaves
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Rice:
- 1.75 cups long grain white rice, uncooked
Collecting these ingredients in advance makes cooking smoother. Each item adds its own flavor, resulting in a rich and satisfying jambalaya. (1)
Preparation Steps
Making chicken sausage jambalaya is straightforward and enjoyable. Here’s how to prepare it step by step:
- Prepare the Ingredients: Start by getting everything ready. Chop the chicken and sausage into bite-sized pieces. Next, dice the onion, celery, and bell peppers. Mince the garlic. Make sure to measure the liquids and seasonings to avoid any last-minute surprises.
- Brown the Sausage: Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a bit of olive oil. Once the oil is hot, toss in the sliced sausage. Let it cook for about 4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it turns brown around the edges. This step adds a rich flavor that makes the dish stand out.
- Combine in Slow Cooker: Grab a 4-6 quart slow cooker and pour in the chicken broth and tomato paste. Mix them well until they are nicely blended. Then, add the diced onion, celery, bell peppers, minced garlic, browned sausage, and chicken pieces. It should look colorful and inviting.
- Add Seasonings: Now, it’s time to season. Sprinkle in the Creole or Cajun seasoning, dried oregano, bay leaves, and salt and pepper. Mix everything well to ensure that the flavors combine beautifully. This step is key to achieving that signature jambalaya taste.
- Cooking Time: Cover the slow cooker and set it to high for about 3 hours. This longer cooking time allows the chicken to become tender and soak up all those delicious flavors. It’s the perfect time to kick back and relax.
- Add Rice: After 3 hours, check on the chicken. It should be tender enough to shred easily with two forks. Take it out and do just that. Then, add the uncooked rice to the mixture in the slow cooker. Return the shredded chicken and give everything a good stir to make sure it’s well combined.
- Final Cooking Phase: Cover the slow cooker again and cook on high for an additional hour. This is where the rice cooks and absorbs all that flavorful liquid. The aroma in the kitchen will be mouthwatering!
- Serve: Once the final cooking time is up, give the jambalaya a good stir. This helps to mix everything together. For a touch of freshness, consider adding some chopped parsley or green onions as a garnish right before serving.
This entire process leads to a hearty meal that’s packed with flavor. The slow cooker takes the hard work out of meal prep, allowing anyone to enjoy a delicious dish without spending all day in the kitchen. (2)
Tips for Success
Here are some helpful tips to create the best chicken sausage jambalaya:
- Rice Cooking Method: Some people find it better to cook the rice separately to keep it from getting mushy. If this is the choice, using some of the broth from the slow cooker can enhance the flavor of the rice. It’s a simple trick that makes a big difference.
- Spice Level: Adjusting the heat can be fun. For those who like a kick, adding cayenne pepper or choosing a spicier sausage can elevate the dish. This way, everyone can enjoy the jambalaya just how they like it—mild or spicy.
- Adding Shrimp: For a seafood twist, why not toss in some shrimp during the last 15 minutes of cooking? This adds a delicious touch and makes the dish feel special. It’s an easy way to mix things up and please those who love seafood.
With these tips, anyone can whip up a tasty and satisfying chicken sausage jambalaya in a slow cooker. The recipe is flexible, letting cooks adapt it to their personal tastes and preferences.
Conclusion
Making chicken sausage jambalaya in a slow cooker is a simple way to enjoy a flavorful and hearty meal. With just a few easy steps, anyone can prepare a dish that adds comfort to family dinners or gatherings. The mix of proteins, vegetables, and spices makes it a great choice for any occasion. This jambalaya is sure to please everyone at the table!
FAQ
What is the difference between jambalaya and gumbo?
Jambalaya and gumbo are both Creole and Cajun dishes, but they have some key differences. Jambalaya is a rice-based dish that combines meat, vegetables, and rice, while gumbo is more of a soup or stew with a roux base and various meats and seafood. Jambalaya typically has a thicker, stickier consistency compared to the thinner broth of gumbo.
Can I use brown rice in this slow cooker chicken sausage jambalaya recipe?
Yes, you can use brown rice in this slow cooker recipe. The cooking time may need to be adjusted slightly to ensure the brown rice is fully cooked through, but it should work well as a substitute for the white rice.
How do I make this chicken sausage jambalaya in the slow cooker gluten-free?
To make this slow cooker chicken sausage jambalaya recipe gluten-free, you’ll want to use gluten-free chicken broth and make sure your cajun seasoning blend does not contain any gluten-containing ingredients. You can also serve it over gluten-free brown rice or cauliflower rice instead of regular rice.
Can I add shrimp to this slow cooker jambalaya?
Absolutely! You can easily add cooked shrimp to this slow cooker chicken sausage jambalaya recipe. Just stir the cooked shrimp in during the last 30 minutes of cooking so it doesn’t overcook.
What are some good side dishes to serve with slow cooker chicken sausage jambalaya?
Some tasty side dish options to serve with this slow cooker jambalaya include:
- Crusty bread or cornbread
- A simple green salad
- Sautéed or roasted vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or okra
- Steamed or roasted cauliflower
The jambalaya is a complete one-pot meal, but these sides can help round out the meal.
What type of sausage is best to use in this slow cooker jambalaya?
The traditional choice is andouille sausage, which provides a nice smoky and spicy flavor. You can also use a cajun or smoked chicken sausage for a lighter option. Just make sure to choose a fully cooked sausage that can hold up to the slow cooking process.
How do I get the right level of spice in this slow cooker jambalaya?
To control the spice level, you can adjust the amount of cajun seasoning, cayenne pepper, and/or crushed red pepper flakes that you add. Start with smaller amounts and taste as you go to reach your desired level of heat. You can also serve with hot sauce on the side for people to add their own spice.
Can I use frozen chicken in this slow cooker jambalaya recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs in this slow cooker recipe. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly, as frozen chicken will take longer to become fully cooked and tender.
How should I store any leftover slow cooker chicken sausage jambalaya?
Any leftover jambalaya can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. You can also freeze portions for longer storage, up to 2-3 months. When reheating, you may need to add a splash of broth or water to loosen up the consistency.
References:
- https://www.emerils.com/130498/slow-cooker-chicken-and-sausage-jambalaya
- https://wonkywonderful.com/chicken-and-sausage-slow-cooker-jambalaya-recipe/
Related Articles:
- https://milkwoodrestaurant.com/chicken-and-sausage-jambalaya/
- https://milkwoodrestaurant.com/chicken-sausage-jambalaya-recipe/
- https://milkwoodrestaurant.com/chicken-sausage-recipes-in-oven/
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I’m Mary R. Q. , a seasoned professional chef dedicated to elevating home cooking experiences. Through my expertise in the culinary arts, I provide practical cooking tips and insightful reviews of kitchen utensils on my blog, milkwoodrestaurant.com. As a passionate advocate for transforming everyday meals into extraordinary culinary adventures, I aim to empower home cooks with the knowledge and tools they need to create delicious and memorable dishes. I’m also an author of the book “1,001 Kitchen Tips & Tricks: Helpful Hints for Cooking, Baking, and Cleaning (1,001 Tips & Tricks)” which is sold on Amazon. Join me on a flavorful journey as we explore the art of cooking and the essential tools that make it a joy.
