A classic Cajun dish featuring a flavorful mix of chicken, sausage, and rice, seasoned with a blend of spices for a taste of Louisiana.

Prep Time
20min
Cook Time
45min
Total Time
1hr 5min
Jambalaya 101: Cajun recipe

Ingredients

6 Servings
(1 serving = one bowl)

Main Ingredients

  • 1
    medium onion, diced
  • 1/2cup
    diced bell peppers
  • 1/2cup
    diced celery
  • 3clove
    garlic, minced
  • 1tbsp
    Cajun seasoning
  • 1tsp
    pepper
  • 1tbsp
    garlic powder
  • 1tbsp
    onion powder
  • 1tsp
    smoked paprika
  • 1 1/2tsp
    dried thyme
  • 1tsp
    salt
  • 1lb
    chicken thighs
  • 1lb
    andouille or smoked sausage
  • 1/2lb
    bacon, diced
  • 2cup
    rice, rinsed
  • 4cups
    chicken stock

How to make Jambalaya 101: Cajun

Preparation

  1. Chop onion, celery, garlic, and bell peppers. Mix well and set aside.

  2. Dice chicken into chunks and season with the seasoning blend. Set aside.

  3. Slice sausage into medallions and set aside.

  4. Dice bacon and set aside.

Cooking

  1. Heat a cast iron pot over medium-high heat. Add chicken and sauté until browned. Remove from pot and drain grease. Set aside.

  2. Add bacon to the pot and cook until browned. Remove and set aside.

  3. Add sausage to the pot and cook until browned. Remove and set aside.

  4. Add chopped vegetables to the pot and scrape the bottom to release the 'suc'.

  5. Add rice, all meats, and chicken stock to the pot. Bring to a boil, then cover and reduce heat to low-medium. Cook for 35 minutes without peeking.

  6. Enjoy your Jambalaya!

Nutrition (per serving)

Calories

656.5kcal (32.82%)

Protein

47.0g (93.92%)

Carbs

23.2g (8.42%)

Sugars

4.0g (8.04%)

Healthy Fat

23.6g

Unhealthy Fat

16.9g

% Daily Value based on a 2000 calorie diet

Tips & Tricks

  1. Ensure the rice is well-rinsed to remove excess starch.

  2. Do not lift the lid while the rice is cooking to ensure even cooking.

  3. Use a cast iron pot for better heat distribution and flavor.

FAQS

  1. Can I use a different type of sausage?

    Yes, you can use any smoked sausage, but andouille is traditional for Cajun Jambalaya.

  2. Can I substitute chicken thighs with chicken breast?

    Yes, but chicken thighs are recommended for their juiciness and flavor.

  3. Is it necessary to rinse the rice?

    Yes, rinsing the rice removes excess starch and prevents it from becoming sticky.

  4. Can I make this dish in advance?

    Yes, Jambalaya can be made in advance and reheated. The flavors often improve after a day.

  5. What can I serve with Jambalaya?

    Jambalaya is often served with a side of cornbread or a simple green salad.

Loading reviews...

c
instagram

Brandon Griffin

(@cajuninthekitchen)

Oakland, Ca 📍 Chef Made in Louisiana ⚜️🐊...

chefadora
© 2025 Chefadora Pty Ltd, All Rights Reserved

Marnirni-apinthi Building, Lot Fourteen,
North Terrace, Adelaide, South Australia, 5000
Australia