Cajun Chicken Jambalaya

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Bold, smoky, and full of flavor, Cajun Chicken Jambalaya is the ultimate comfort food straight from Louisiana kitchens. With tender chicken, smoky sausage, and perfectly seasoned rice, every bite is a little spicy, a little savory, and absolutely satisfying. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or a weekend family feast, this one-pot wonder will be the star of the table.

What makes this dish so irresistible is how all the ingredients meld together while cooking. The rice absorbs every bit of the Cajun spices, juicy chicken drippings, and savory sausage, creating a rich and hearty dish that tastes like it’s been simmering all day—even if it only takes about an hour to make. Serve it with a slice of warm cornbread or buttery rolls, and you’ve got yourself a meal that everyone will love.

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Why You’ll Love This Cajun Chicken Jambalaya

This dish packs tons of flavor with minimal effort. It’s a one-pot recipe, making cleanup easy, and it’s perfect for feeding a hungry crowd. You’ll love how the smoky sausage balances the spices, while the chicken keeps it hearty and filling. Plus, it’s easy to customize—add shrimp, extra veggies, or turn up the heat with more Cajun seasoning.

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What Type of Sausage Works Best in Cajun Jambalaya?

For the best authentic flavor, Andouille sausage is the classic choice. It’s smoky, spicy, and holds up well during cooking without becoming rubbery. If you can’t find Andouille, a good smoked sausage or kielbasa works as a substitute, though the flavor will be slightly milder.

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Ingredients for the Cajun Chicken Jambalaya

Each ingredient in Cajun Chicken Jambalaya brings a unique depth of flavor to the dish. The combination of spices, vegetables, and proteins creates that classic Louisiana taste everyone craves.

• Chicken thighs or breasts – Juicy and tender, they soak up all the Cajun spices.
• Andouille sausage – The smoky and slightly spicy kick is what makes this dish authentically Cajun.
• Long-grain rice – Absorbs all the seasoned broth and becomes rich and flavorful.
• Bell peppers (red and green) – Adds sweetness and a pop of color.
• Celery – A staple in Cajun cooking for its aromatic base.
• Onion – Brings savory depth to the dish.
• Garlic – Enhances the overall flavor with a fragrant punch.
• Cajun seasoning – The soul of the dish, providing that spicy, smoky flavor.
• Chicken broth – Infuses the rice with rich, savory goodness.
• Diced tomatoes – Balances the spices with a touch of acidity.
• Green onions & parsley – Fresh garnish that brightens the final dish.

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How To Make the Cajun Chicken Jambalaya

Step 1: Sear the Meats

Heat a large pot or Dutch oven with a bit of oil. Brown the sausage slices until caramelized, then set aside. In the same pot, sear the chicken until golden on all sides—this locks in flavor.

Step 2: Cook the Vegetables

Add onions, celery, and bell peppers to the same pot, scraping up any browned bits for extra flavor. Cook until softened, then stir in garlic and cook for another minute.

Step 3: Season and Combine

Sprinkle in Cajun seasoning, then add the browned sausage, diced tomatoes, and chicken broth. Stir everything together, letting the flavors meld.

Step 4: Add the Rice and Simmer

Stir in the rice, reduce the heat, cover, and simmer until the rice is tender and has absorbed all the flavorful liquid—about 25–30 minutes.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Fluff the jambalaya with a fork, sprinkle with green onions and parsley, and serve hot.

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Serving and Storing Cajun Chicken Jambalaya

This recipe comfortably feeds 6 to 8 people, making it perfect for family dinners or gatherings. Serve it piping hot straight from the pot for the best experience.

To store, let it cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. It keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days and freezes beautifully for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth if needed to keep it moist.

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What to Serve With Cajun Chicken Jambalaya?

1. Buttery Cornbread

A slice of warm cornbread pairs beautifully with the spicy jambalaya.

2. Garlic Bread

Perfect for soaking up all the flavorful sauce.

3. Simple Green Salad

A light salad with vinaigrette balances the hearty rice dish.

4. Coleslaw

Adds a creamy and tangy crunch to contrast the spices.

5. Fried Okra

A Southern favorite that complements the Cajun flavors.

6. Roasted Vegetables

Lightly seasoned roasted vegetables make for a wholesome side.

7. Sweet Tea or Lemonade

Cool, refreshing drinks to mellow the heat of the spices.

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Want More Comfort Food Recipes?

If you love this Cajun Chicken Jambalaya, you’ll enjoy these other flavorful comfort-food favorites:

• Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Lasagna – A creamy, cheesy seafood twist.
• One Pot Smoked Sausage Pasta – Smoky, hearty, and perfect for quick dinners.
• The Best Chili Recipe – Rich and full of bold spices.
• Cheddar Crusted Ground Beef and Rice Casserole – Cheesy, crispy, and satisfying.
• Hearty Potato Kielbasa Soup – A cozy bowl of smoky sausage and potatoes.

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Save This Pin For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest board so you can make it anytime you’re craving something warm and hearty.

And when you try it, let me know in the comments how yours turned out! Did you keep it classic or add shrimp? Maybe you turned up the spice? I love hearing how you make these recipes your own.

Explore more comforting and flavorful recipes on NoraNosh Recipes on Pinterest and find your next family favorite!

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