Try Cindy's Jambalaya recipe for a taste of Louisiana's vibrant culinary tradition. This hearty one-pot dish is packed with smoky and spicy flavors, combining tender chicken, juicy shrimp, and Andouille sausage with a medley of vegetables and aromatic spices. Serve this jambalaya over a bed of fluffy rice for a satisfying and comforting meal that's perfect for gatherings or family dinners. With a preparation time of just 30 minutes, you can easily bring a taste of the South to your table!
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken thighs, boneless and skinless, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 lb Andouille sausage, sliced into rounds
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 onion, diced
- 3 celery stalks, diced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups long-grain white rice
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 2 green onions, sliced for garnish
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
Directions
- In a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat.
- Add the chicken pieces to the pot and cook until browned on all sides. Remove the chicken from the pot and set aside.
- In the same pot, add the Andouille sausage and cook until browned. Remove the sausage from the pot and set aside.
- Add the diced onions, bell peppers, and celery to the pot. Cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the minced garlic, Cajun seasoning, dried thyme, smoked paprika, dried oregano, and cayenne pepper. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Add the diced tomatoes (with their juice) and chicken broth to the pot. Bring the mixture to a boil.
- Stir in the rice, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and has absorbed most of the liquid.
- While the rice is cooking, season the shrimp with salt and black pepper.
- Once the rice is cooked, uncover the pot and add the cooked chicken, Andouille sausage, and seasoned shrimp. Stir well to combine.
- Cover the pot again 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 sliced green onions and chopped parsley before serving.
- Serve the jambalaya hot over a bed of fluffy rice and enjoy!
Interesting Facts
Jambalaya is a dish that originated in Louisiana and is a fusion of African, Spanish, and French cuisines.
Andouille sausage is a smoked sausage made with pork, garlic, pepper, and other spices, adding a rich and smoky flavor to the jambalaya.
The word 'jambalaya' comes from the Provençal word 'jambalaia,' which means a mishmash or mix-up of ingredients.
Jambalaya is often served during Mardi Gras celebrations in Louisiana, where it is a staple dish.
This recipe is a classic version of jambalaya, but variations can include different proteins like crab, crawfish, or even alligator meat.