Begin by heating vegetable oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Toss in the chicken pieces and sausage slices. Cook them until the chicken is golden brown and the sausage is slightly crispy. Then, remove them from the pot and set them aside. 🐓

Using the same pot, add the onion, green bell pepper, celery, and garlic. Sauté these aromatic gems until they’re softened and fill your kitchen with their delicious fragrance, which should take about five minutes. 🌶️

Next, stir in your diced tomatoes (with all their juices) and your rice. Give it all a good stir so the rice starts soaking in those flavors. Continue cooking for a few minutes.

Here’s where the flavor magic happens! Sprinkle in thyme, oregano, paprika, cayenne pepper, and a bay leaf. Pour in chicken broth and stir well. Cover the pot, lower the heat, and simmer for 20-25 minutes until the rice is tender. 👌

Stir in your browned chicken and sausage. Allow them to simmer for an additional five to seven minutes, letting their juices meld with the rest of the dish.

Finally, add the shrimp. Cook for just three to five minutes until they’re pink and opaque. Be careful not to overcook them! 🦐

Remove the bay leaf, sprinkle fresh parsley over the top, and voilà! Your jambalaya is ready to enjoy. Serve it hot and watch your family or guests light up with their first bite. 🥄