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

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

Ingredients

6 Servings
(1 serving = one bowl)

Main Ingredients

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

How to make Jambalaya 101: Cajun

Preparation

  1. Step 1

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

  2. Step 2

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

  3. Step 3

    Slice sausage into medallions and set aside.

  4. Step 4

    Dice bacon and set aside.

Cooking

  1. Step 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. Step 2

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

  3. Step 3

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

  4. Step 4

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

  5. Step 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. Step 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.

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Brandon Griffin

(@cajuninthekitchen)

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

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