Introduction
Welcome to a culinary journey to the heart of Louisiana with this delicious Slow Cooker Chicken Jambalaya recipe! This one-pot wonder is a comforting medley of chicken, smoky sausage, and vibrant vegetables, all simmered to perfection in a rich, flavorful broth. Imagine the aromas wafting through your kitchen as it cooks—each bite bursting with flavor and warmth. Perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend meal, this dish is not only hearty but also incredibly easy to prepare. Let’s dive into the flavors of the South!
Ingredients
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into pieces
- 1 pound smoked sausage, sliced
- 1 onion, diced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup long-grain rice
- 2 teaspoons Cajun seasoning
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup green onions, sliced (for garnish)
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 6-8 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high
Total Time: 6-8 hours 15 minutes
Yield: 6-8 servings
Directions and Instructions
- In your slow cooker, combine the chicken, sliced sausage, diced onion, green bell pepper, celery, and minced garlic. This tantalizing medley is the base for our jambalaya!
- Add the undrained diced tomatoes, chicken broth, long-grain rice, Cajun seasoning, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Gently stir everything together until well mixed.
- Cover the slow cooker and set it on low for 6 to 8 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours. As it cooks, you’ll want to check for tenderness, ensuring the chicken is fully cooked and the rice has absorbed the flavorful broth.
- Once the cooking time is complete, give the jambalaya a good stir to fluff the rice and fully incorporate all the delicious ingredients.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh sliced green onions for that perfect pop of color and flavor!
Notes or Tips
This jambalaya recipe is versatile! Feel free to add your favorite vegetables like okra or corn for extra texture and flavor. If you like it spicier, a dash of hot sauce or additional Cajun seasoning can elevate the heat. This dish also makes for fantastic leftovers—its flavors deepen and improve the next day!
Cooking Techniques
Using a slow cooker allows the flavors to meld beautifully while keeping the chicken moist and tender. Searing the chicken and sausage beforehand can enhance the flavor, but it’s entirely optional if you’re short on time. Just sauté them briefly in a pan before adding them to the slow cooker if you prefer that added depth.
FAQ
Can I use brown rice instead of white?
Yes, you can, but brown rice will require a longer cooking time, so make sure to adjust the cooking duration accordingly.
Can I make this vegetarian?
Absolutely! Substitute the chicken and sausage with your favorite plant-based proteins and vegetable broth, and load up on veggies for a delicious vegetarian jambalaya.
Conclusion
This Slow Cooker Chicken Jambalaya is not just a dish; it’s a cozy hug in a bowl. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal effort, you can create a meal that embodies the rich culinary heritage of Louisiana. Whether you’re gathering friends and family for a special occasion or simply enjoying a comforting dinner at home, this jambalaya is sure to delight. Enjoy the scrumptious journey with every mouthful!