Classic Jambalaya Recipe

Jambalaya is a one-pot dish bursting with flavor, combining rice, sausage, chicken, shrimp, and the holy trinity of Creole cooking—onions, bell peppers, and celery. This classic Southern dish is a favorite for good reason: it’s hearty, satisfying, and packs a punch of spice and warmth. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner or serving it at a gathering, jambalaya is sure to impress with its rich flavors and comforting textures.

Classic Jambalaya

I love making jambalaya because it’s such a versatile dish that’s perfect for feeding a crowd. The smoky sausage, tender chicken, and plump shrimp all come together with the seasoned rice to create a well-balanced, flavorful meal. Plus, everything cooks in one pot, making cleanup a breeze! This recipe is packed with spices like paprika, cayenne, and thyme, giving it that signature Louisiana kick. If you’re looking for a comforting dish that’s easy to customize, jambalaya is a must-try.

This recipe pairs beautifully with a side of Shrimp Salad with Garlic and Cherry Tomatoes Recipe for a refreshing contrast, or serve it alongside Cajun Chicken and Shrimp Alfredo Recipe for a true Southern feast.

Why You’ll Love This Classic Jambalaya Recipe

• One-Pot Meal: Everything cooks in a single pot, making this an easy, fuss-free recipe that’s perfect for busy nights.
• Bold and Flavorful: The combination of spices, sausage, chicken, and shrimp gives this dish its rich, complex flavors.
• Hearty and Satisfying: Jambalaya is packed with protein and rice, making it a filling meal that satisfies both the stomach and the soul.
• Versatile: You can easily customize this dish by adjusting the spice level or adding your favorite meats and vegetables.

Main Ingredients for Classic Jambalaya

1. Andouille Sausage – Smoked andouille sausage adds a deep, smoky flavor to the dish. You can also use kielbasa or any smoked sausage if andouille isn’t available.
2. Chicken Thighs – Tender chicken thighs provide protein and richness. You can also use chicken breast if you prefer.
3. Shrimp – Adds a juicy, succulent texture to the dish and brings a touch of sweetness to balance the spices.
4. Rice – Long-grain white rice is ideal for jambalaya because it absorbs the flavors without becoming mushy.
5. Holy Trinity (Onion, Bell Pepper, Celery) – These vegetables are the base of most Creole and Cajun dishes, providing essential flavor and texture.
6. Cajun Seasoning – A mix of paprika, cayenne, thyme, and garlic powder gives the jambalaya its signature bold taste.
7. Tomatoes – Diced tomatoes add a bit of acidity and sweetness to the dish, helping to balance the richness of the meats and spices.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Classic Jambalaya Recipe

Here’s how to make this classic, flavorful jambalaya step by step:

1. Brown the Sausage: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add 1 lb of sliced andouille sausage and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove the sausage from the pot and set aside.
   • Tip: Browning the sausage first adds depth of flavor to the dish, so don’t skip this step.
2. Sear the Chicken: In the same pot, add 1 lb of boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces. Cook until browned on all sides, about 6-8 minutes. Remove the chicken from the pot and set aside with the sausage.
   • Pro Tip: You can use chicken breast if you prefer a leaner cut, but thighs stay juicy and tender throughout the cooking process.
3. Sauté the Vegetables: Add 1 diced onion, 1 diced green bell pepper, and 2 stalks of diced celery to the pot. Cook until the vegetables are soft, about 5 minutes. Stir in 3 cloves of minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
   • Variation: For extra heat, you can add a diced jalapeño or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes along with the vegetables.
4. Add the Spices and Rice: Stir in 1 tablespoon of Cajun seasoning, 1 teaspoon of thyme, 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika, and 1/2 teaspoon of cayenne pepper. Add 1 1/2 cups of long-grain rice and stir to coat the rice in the spices.
   • Tip: Toasting the rice with the spices for a minute or two before adding the liquid enhances the flavor of the dish.
5. Simmer with Broth and Tomatoes: Pour in 1 can of diced tomatoes (with juices) and 4 cups of chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover. Simmer for about 20-25 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and the liquid is absorbed.
   • Variation: For a seafood-forward jambalaya, swap in shrimp stock or add a splash of white wine for extra depth.
6. Cook the Shrimp: When the rice is almost done, stir in 1 lb of peeled and deveined shrimp. Cover and cook for another 5-7 minutes, or until the shrimp are cooked through and pink.
   • Tip: Be careful not to overcook the shrimp. They should be firm and pink, but still tender.
7. Finish with Sausage and Chicken: Stir the browned sausage and chicken back into the pot. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until everything is heated through. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
   • Serving Idea: Serve jambalaya with hot sauce on the side for those who like extra spice.

Extra Tips and Variations

• Vegetarian Jambalaya: You can make this dish vegetarian by omitting the meat and adding more vegetables like okra, zucchini, or mushrooms.
• How to Store: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop with a little added broth or water to keep the rice moist.
• How to Freeze: Jambalaya freezes well! Let it cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat before serving.

Health Benefits of Classic Jambalaya

Jambalaya is a hearty dish that provides a balanced meal with protein, vegetables, and rice. The chicken and shrimp offer lean protein, while the vegetables contribute vitamins and fiber. The dish is naturally gluten-free, and you can control the amount of spice to suit your preferences. For a healthier version, you can use brown rice instead of white rice or reduce the amount of sausage to lower the fat content.

• High in Protein: The chicken and shrimp in jambalaya provide a great source of lean protein, which supports muscle repair and keeps you full.
• Rich in Vitamins and Minerals: The vegetables and spices in jambalaya are packed with nutrients like vitamin C, potassium, and antioxidants.
• Customizable for Healthier Options: You can use brown rice or reduce the amount of sausage for a lighter version of this dish.