Enjoy a taste of Louisiana with this authentic Cajun jambalaya recipe. Made with a combination of meats, vegetables, and aromatic spices, this hearty dish is bursting with flavors. It's the perfect one-pot meal to warm you up on a chilly evening. Serve it with a side of cornbread for a complete southern feast.
Ingredients
- 1 pound boneless chicken, cut into small pieces
- 1 pound andouille sausage, sliced
- 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 1 celery stalk, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups long-grain rice
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Directions
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil over medium heat.
- Add the chicken pieces to the pot and cook until browned. Remove from the pot and set aside.
- In the same pot, add the sliced andouille sausage and cook until browned. Remove from the pot and set aside.
- Add the remaining tablespoon of vegetable oil to the pot. Add the onion, bell pepper, celery, and garlic. Cook until the vegetables are softened.
- Add the cooked chicken, sausage, diced tomatoes (with juices), chicken broth, rice, Cajun seasoning, dried thyme, dried oregano, paprika, and cayenne pepper to the pot. Stir well to combine.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and the liquid is absorbed.
- While the jambalaya is simmering, season the shrimp with salt and black pepper.
- After the rice is cooked, add the seasoned shrimp to the pot. Stir gently to combine.
- Cover and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the shrimp are pink and cooked through.
- Remove from heat and let the jambalaya rest for a few minutes before serving.
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving.
Interesting Facts
Jambalaya is a traditional Creole dish with Spanish and French influences.
It is said that jambalaya originated in Louisiana as a Spanish Paella variation.
The name 'jambalaya' is derived from the Spanish word 'jamon' meaning ham, and 'paella', a rice dish.