This classic Cajun-style jambalaya is loaded with sausage, chicken, shrimp, rice, and vegetables, all slow-simmered for deep, comforting flavor. Perfect for busy days and family dinners.
⏱ Time & Servings
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Prep Time: 15 minutes
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Cook Time: 4–5 hours (LOW) or 2–3 hours (HIGH)
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Total Time: ~5 hours
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Servings: 6–8
🧾 Ingredients
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1 lb boneless chicken thighs or breasts, diced
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12 oz andouille sausage, sliced
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1 lb shrimp, peeled & deveined
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1 tbsp olive oil (optional, for browning)
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1 medium onion, chopped
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1 green bell pepper, chopped
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1 red bell pepper, chopped
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2 celery stalks, sliced
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3 cloves garlic, minced
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1½ cups long-grain white rice, rinsed
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3½ cups chicken broth
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1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes (with juice)
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2 tbsp tomato paste
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2 tsp Cajun or Creole seasoning
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1 tsp paprika
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½ tsp dried thyme
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½ tsp black pepper
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¼–½ tsp cayenne (optional, to taste)
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Salt, to taste
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2 bay leaves
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Chopped parsley or green onions, for garnish
👩🍳 Instructions
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Optional Browning (Extra Flavor)
Heat oil in a skillet and lightly brown chicken and sausage. Transfer to slow cooker. -
Layer Ingredients
Add onion, bell peppers, celery, garlic, rice, broth, tomatoes, tomato paste, seasonings, and bay leaves. Stir well. -
Slow Cook
Cover and cook:-
LOW: 4–5 hours
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HIGH: 2–3 hours
until rice is tender and chicken is cooked.
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Add Shrimp
Stir in shrimp during the last 20–30 minutes of cooking. -
Finish & Serve
Remove bay leaves. Adjust seasoning. Garnish with parsley or green onions.
🍽 Flavor & Texture
✔ Smoky, spicy Cajun flavor
✔ Tender chicken & sausage
✔ Juicy shrimp
✔ Perfectly seasoned rice
⭐ Tips & Variations
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Spicier: Add hot sauce or extra cayenne
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Creole style: Use more tomatoes
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Brown rice: Increase liquid and cook time
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Low-carb: Skip rice and serve over cauliflower rice
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Seafood-only: Use shrimp + crab + sausage
📊 Nutrition (Approx. per serving)
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Calories: 480
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Protein: 32g
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Fat: 20g
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Carbs: 42g