The first time I made this Jambalaya recipe with chicken, shrimp, and sausage, it instantly became a staple in my kitchen. One pot, bold flavors, and a meal that feels like a celebration every time you dig in. The aroma alone is enough to make the whole house feel warm and inviting.

There’s something magical about the way the spices blend perfectly with hearty meats and tender grains of rice. With every bite, I couldn’t help but feel like I was transported straight to Louisiana. Whether you’re cooking it for friends or enjoying a cozy evening at home, this dish hits all the right notes. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll keep coming back for more.

Why This Jambalaya Recipe Will Be Your Go-To?

This recipe isn’t just delicious; it’s versatile, easy to make, and perfect for customizing to fit your lifestyle. Here are a few reasons it’ll quickly become your favorite.

Made for Busy Schedules

With everything cooked in one pot, clean-up is a breeze! Plus, the recipe is easy to follow, making it ideal for both beginners and seasoned cooks.

Endless Possibilities

Jambalaya is a canvas for creativity. You can easily swap out proteins, adjust spice levels to your liking, or even make it vegetarian!

Full of Big, Bold Flavors

Paprika, cayenne, and Cajun seasoning come together to create a deep, smoky taste that sets this dish apart. The juicy shrimp and savory sausage are just the icing on the cake.

Great for Any Crowd

This dish is hearty, comforting, and feeds a crowd, making it a hit at parties, potlucks, or family dinners.

Make It as Spicy or Mild as You Like

Not into too much heat? Tone down the cayenne! For spice lovers, just add an extra pinch.

Cooking Time Breakdown

Here’s a quick glance at how much time you’ll need to whip up this mouthwatering meal.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes

Ingredients You’ll Need

Vegetable oil
Boneless, skinless chicken thighs
Smoked sausage (andouille or kielbasa)
Onion
Bell pepper
Celery
Garlic
Diced tomatoes
Long-grain white rice
Chicken broth
Cajun seasoning
Paprika
Dried thyme
Cayenne pepper
Salt and black pepper
Peeled and deveined shrimp
Green onions (for garnish)
Fresh parsley (for garnish)

Flavor Tweaks and Handy Tools

Want to mix things up or get your kitchen prepped? Here are some tips and tools to make your cooking even smoother.

Substitutions and Add-Ons

Vegetarian Version: Replace the meat with chickpeas or tofu for a satisfying plant-based alternative.
Whole-Grain Option: Use brown rice instead of white for added fiber and nutrients.
Seafood Switch: Can’t find shrimp? Use scallops or crab instead!
Extra Heat: Add red pepper flakes or hot sauce for an extra kick.

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

Large Dutch oven or stock pot (for even cooking)
Cutting board (for chopping all those veggies)
Chef’s knife (your go-to for precision chopping)
Measuring cups and spoons (to nail the flavor balance perfectly)

Step-by-Step Recipe Guide for Jambalaya Recipe With Chicken Shrimp And Sausage Recipe

This hearty and flavorful Jambalaya recipe is packed with bold Cajun spices, tender chicken, smoky sausage, and succulent shrimp. Follow these simple steps to bring this Louisiana classic to your table!

Sautéing the Ingredients 🥘

Start by heating vegetable oil in a heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add your chicken pieces and brown them. Once cooked, remove them and set aside. Next, toss in the smoked sausage and cook until it’s lightly browned and releases its oils. Remove and set aside as well.

Time to Build the Flavor! 🧅

Add the chopped onion, diced bell pepper, and celery to the same pot. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the veggies are tender and fragrant. Toss in your minced garlic and cook for another minute until the delightful aroma fills your kitchen.

Combine the Essentials 🍅

Now, mix in diced tomatoes, making sure to include their juices. Stir everything together and cook for a few minutes. Add your long-grain white rice, and stir thoroughly so each grain is coated with that burst of flavor.

Cooking the Jambalaya 🍛

Return the browned chicken and sausage to the pot. Pour in chicken broth and toss in Cajun seasoning, paprika, dried thyme, cayenne pepper, and salt and pepper. Stir well, bring the mix to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for about 25 minutes, allowing the rice to soak up all the delicious flavors.

The Finishing Touch 🍤

Gently fold in the shrimp and cook for another 5-7 minutes until they’re plump and pink. Garnish with chopped green onions and parsley before serving. Enjoy!

Must-Know Tips for the Perfect Dish

Even a straightforward recipe can benefit from a few insider tricks.

Balance Your Spices: Start with less cayenne if you’re spice-sensitive, then gradually add according to taste.
Use Fresh Ingredients: The fresher the veggies and shrimp, the more vibrant your dish will be.
Even Cooking: Ensure all your ingredients are roughly the same size for consistent cooking.
Rice Perfection: Keep the lid on tight to help trap steam and ensure the rice cooks perfectly.

Serving Suggestions for the Ultimate Feast

Jambalaya is a showstopper on its own, but you can pair it with simple sides to complete the meal.

Cornbread: Sweet or savory, it’s the perfect Southern pairing.
Coleslaw: A fresh, crunchy contrast to the rich flavors.
Green Salad: Lighten things up with a simple vinaigrette.
Lemon Wedges: A splash of citrus goes a long way in boosting the taste.

For presentation, serve directly from the pot for a rustic touch or spoon portions into shallow bowls to show off the vibrant colors. Sprinkle a bit of green onion for added brightness and garnishing flair.

Quick Nutritional Facts

This hearty dish provides a well-rounded meal in every bite! Here are some key numbers for a one-bowl serving.

Calories: ~325
Protein: ~22g
Carbohydrates: ~28g
Fat: ~14g

Make It Ahead and Store Like a Pro

The best part about Jambalaya? It tastes even better the next day as the flavors have more time to meld together.

Storing Your Jambalaya

Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave with a splash of chicken broth to prevent it from drying out.

Freeze for Later!

Prepare and freeze it for up to 2 months in freezer-safe containers. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating, and you’ll have a ready-to-eat meal in no time.

Pour your heart (and spices) into this Jambalaya recipe with chicken, shrimp, and sausage. Share it with loved ones or savor it solo. Either way, you’re in for a soul-warming meal that’s perfect for every occasion. Enjoy!

See the steps in action here: