Why You’ll Enjoy This Crock Pot Jambalaya
This Crock Pot Jambalaya is not just a meal; it’s a comforting experience. It brings together bold flavors from chicken, sausage, and spices that will make your taste buds sing. The slow cooking process allows all the ingredients to meld beautifully, resulting in a satisfying dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or need a family dinner, this recipe is a winner!
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Crock Pot Jambalaya
Ingredients
- 1 pound chicken breast, diced
- 1 pound smoked sausage, sliced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
- 1 cup uncooked long-grain rice
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 2 teaspoons Cajun seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Green onions for garnish (optional)
Directions
- Start by adding the diced chicken, sliced sausage, chopped onion, bell pepper, celery, and minced garlic into your Crock Pot.
- Next, pour in the diced tomatoes, uncooked rice, chicken broth, Cajun seasoning, and season with salt and pepper.
- Give everything a good stir until everything is well mixed.
- Cover the Crock Pot and let it cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the rice is tender and the chicken is fully cooked.
- Serve your delicious jambalaya hot, topped with green onions if you like!
Serving Suggestions for Your Jambalaya
Crock Pot Jambalaya shines when served warm, making it perfect for family dinners. Consider pairing it with a simple green salad for a refreshing contrast or serving it with crusty bread to soak up the flavors. This dish is hearty enough to be a meal on its own, but add some fresh fruit or a light dessert to round out your dinner experience.
Proper Storage for Leftovers
If you have any leftovers (which is often the case!), let the jambalaya cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. You can store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. For longer storage, it freezes well for about 2-3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, just reheat it in the microwave or on the stove.
Helpful Tips for Perfect Jambalaya
- Make sure to dice everything evenly for consistent cooking.
- Feel free to adjust the spice level by adding more or less Cajun seasoning based on your taste.
- Stir the mixture about halfway through cooking to ensure even heating.
Variations to Try
You can easily customize this jambalaya to your liking. Swap out the chicken and sausage for shrimp or tofu to create a different flavor profile. Add in your favorite vegetables, like peas or okra, for extra nutrition and color.
Nutritional Information
While it can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes, a serving of Crock Pot Jambalaya generally contains:
- Calories: 350
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fat: 10g
Family-Friendly Serving Ideas
This dish works great for families! Serve it straight from the Crock Pot so everyone can help themselves. Kids will enjoy the fun of mixing everything on their plates, and adults will love the easy cleanup!
Perfect Pairings with Your Jambalaya
To enhance your meal, consider serving:
- A side of cornbread for a classic Southern touch.
- A crisp green salad with vinaigrette as a light and refreshing side.
- A fruity dessert like peach cobbler to end your meal on a sweet note.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this jambalaya ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the ingredients and place them in the Crock Pot the night before. Just refrigerate it and start cooking in the morning!
Is there a vegetarian version of jambalaya?
Absolutely! Simply replace the chicken and sausage with beans and additional veggies, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
Can I use brown rice in this recipe?
You can, but you will need to adjust the cooking time and increase the broth slightly, as brown rice takes longer to cook than white rice.
Enjoy this easy and flavorful Crock Pot Jambalaya with your family and friends—it’s sure to be a hit!
Crock Pot Jambalaya
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound chicken breast, diced
- 1 pound smoked sausage, sliced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
- 1 cup uncooked long-grain rice
- 3 cups chicken broth
Seasoning
- 2 teaspoons Cajun seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions
Preparation
- Add the diced chicken, sliced sausage, chopped onion, bell pepper, celery, and minced garlic into your Crock Pot.
- Pour in the diced tomatoes, uncooked rice, chicken broth, Cajun seasoning, and season with salt and pepper.
- Give everything a good stir until well mixed.
Cooking
- Cover the Crock Pot and let it cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the rice is tender and the chicken is fully cooked.
- Serve your delicious jambalaya hot, topped with green onions if desired.
