This Simple Chicken Sausage Jambalaya brings together the delightful flavors of chicken, sausage, and a variety of vegetables. Rooted in Cajun and Creole traditions, this one-pot dish is not only easy to make but also packed with flavor, making it a perfect choice for family dinners or gatherings.

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Why You’ll Love This Simple Chicken Sausage Jambalaya

If you’re seeking a meal that is both hearty and easy to prepare, this Simple Chicken Sausage Jambalaya is for you.

Simple Chicken Sausage Jambalaya

A hearty one-pot dish combining chicken, sausage, rice, and vegetables, delivering delightful Cajun and Creole flavors perfect for family dinners.

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Prep Time 15

Cook Time 50

Total Time 1 5

Course Dinner, Main Course

Cuisine Cajun, Creole

Servings 6 servings

Calories 450 kcal

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

2 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
9 oz smoked andouille sausage or kielbasa, sliced Choose good quality smoked sausage for best flavor.
1 large onion, finely chopped
1 large green bell pepper, diced
2 stalks celery, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1.5 cups long-grain white rice, rinsed Rinse the rice to remove excess starch.
2.5 cups chicken broth Ensure it’s gluten-free if necessary.
2 tbsp tomato paste
1 tsp smoked paprika
1 tsp dried thyme
1 tsp dried oregano
0.5 tsp cayenne pepper, adjust to taste Adjust based on heat preference.
1 leaf bay leaf
1.5 tsp kosher salt
0.5 tsp black pepper
2 tbsp olive oil
2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
to taste lemon wedges, optional for serving Adds a zesty kick.

Instructions

Preparation

Preheat oven to 375°F. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish thoroughly.
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken pieces and sausage; sauté for 4 to 5 minutes until lightly browned. Transfer to the baking dish.
In the same skillet, add onion, bell pepper, and celery; cook for 4 minutes until softened. Stir in garlic and cook for 1 additional minute.
Mix in tomato paste, smoked paprika, thyme, oregano, cayenne, salt, and black pepper. Cook for 1 minute to enhance the aromas.
Add diced tomatoes with juices, stirring well and scraping browned bits from the skillet.
Transfer the vegetable mixture to the baking dish with chicken and sausage. Add rice and bay leaf, then pour in chicken broth. Stir gently to blend ingredients evenly.

Cooking

Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 40 minutes.
Remove the foil, stir gently, then bake uncovered for an additional 10 minutes until the rice is tender and the liquid is mostly absorbed.
Remove from the oven, discard the bay leaf, fluff the rice with a fork, garnish with parsley, and serve with optional lemon wedges.

Notes

To store leftovers, let the jambalaya cool completely. Transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate for 3 to 4 days or freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator and reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop.

Keyword Chicken Sausage, comfort food, Family Dinner, Jambalaya, one-pot meal

It’s a filling dish that combines protein, vegetables, and rice in a single pot. Plus, the smoky undertones from the sausage and the spices make every bite irresistible.

Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a weekend gathering, this jambalaya is sure to impress. With minimal cleanup and maximum flavor, you’ll want to add this recipe to your regular meal rotation.

How to Make Simple Chicken Sausage Jambalaya

Ingredients:

2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
9 oz smoked andouille sausage or kielbasa, sliced
1 large onion, finely chopped
1 green bell pepper, diced
2 celery stalks, diced
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes with juices
1½ cups long-grain white rice, rinsed
2½ cups chicken broth
2 tbsp tomato paste
1 tsp smoked paprika
1 tsp dried thyme
1 tsp dried oregano
½ tsp cayenne pepper, adjust to taste
1 bay leaf
1½ tsp kosher salt
½ tsp black pepper
2 tbsp olive oil
2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
Lemon wedges, optional for serving

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Preheat oven to 375°F. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish thoroughly.
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken pieces and sausage; sauté for 4 to 5 minutes until lightly browned. Transfer to the baking dish.
In the same skillet, add onion, bell pepper, and celery; cook for 4 minutes until softened. Stir in garlic and cook for 1 additional minute.
Mix in tomato paste, smoked paprika, thyme, oregano, cayenne, salt, and black pepper. Cook for 1 minute to enhance the aromas.
Add diced tomatoes with juices, stirring well and scraping browned bits from the skillet.
Transfer the vegetable mixture to the baking dish with chicken and sausage. Add rice and bay leaf, then pour in chicken broth. Stir gently to blend ingredients evenly.
Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 40 minutes.
Remove the foil, stir gently, then bake uncovered for an additional 10 minutes until the rice is tender and the liquid is mostly absorbed.
Remove from the oven, discard the bay leaf, fluff the rice with a fork, garnish with parsley, and serve with optional lemon wedges.

How to Serve Simple Chicken Sausage Jambalaya

This jambalaya is best served hot and is excellent as a standalone dish. Pair it with a light salad or some crusty bread for added texture. You can also garnish each bowl with fresh parsley and serve lemon wedges on the side for a zesty kick.

How to Store Simple Chicken Sausage Jambalaya

To store leftovers, let the jambalaya cool completely. Transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate. Properly stored, it can last for up to 3 to 4 days. If you prefer to freeze it, place it in a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm in the microwave or on the stovetop.

Tips to Make Simple Chicken Sausage Jambalaya Perfect

Rinse the Rice: Always rinse the rice to remove excess starch. This ensures your jambalaya doesn’t turn out gummy.
Adjust the Spice Level: If you prefer a milder dish, reduce the cayenne pepper. For extra heat, add more or include diced jalapeños.
Let It Rest: Allow the jambalaya to rest for a few minutes before serving. This will help the flavors meld and result in a better texture.

Flavor Variations

Feel free to customize your jambalaya by adding other proteins like shrimp, beef, or turkey sausage. You can also experiment with vegetables such as corn, okra, or diced zucchini for added texture and flavor. For a smokier taste, incorporate some smoked herbs.

Pro Tips for Success

Use Quality Sausage: Choose a good quality smoked sausage for best results. The flavor of the sausage greatly enhances the dish.
Don’t Skip the Browning: Browning the chicken and sausage not only adds flavor but also gives your dish a richer color.
Check the Liquid: If the rice is not cooking well, you can add a little more chicken broth or water as needed during the baking process.

FAQs About Simple Chicken Sausage Jambalaya

1. Can I make jambalaya without sausage?

Yes, you can prepare this jambalaya without sausage. Simply replace it with additional chicken or another protein of your choice. You can also include additional vegetables to maintain the flavor.

2. Is jambalaya gluten-free?

This Simple Chicken Sausage Jambalaya is naturally gluten-free if you use gluten-free sausage. Additionally, make sure that the chicken broth is also gluten-free to keep the dish safe for those with gluten sensitivities.

3. How can I make this dish vegetarian?

To make a vegetarian version of this jambalaya, omit the chicken and sausage. Instead, add more beans or lentils for protein and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

Final Thoughts

Simple Chicken Sausage Jambalaya is a comforting meal that brings warmth and flavor to your table. Its straightforward preparation and rich taste make it a favorite for family dinners. Whether you are an experienced cook or just starting, this recipe is sure to deliver satisfying results every time. Try this jambalaya today, and prepare to enjoy a delightful dish that will become a staple in your home.