Slow Cooker Jambalaya

If you’re craving a bold, flavorful, and hearty Southern dish, this Slow Cooker Jambalaya is the ultimate comfort food! Packed with tender chicken, smoky andouille sausage, and juicy shrimp, this dish brings authentic Cajun flavor straight to your kitchen with minimal effort. With just 10 minutes of prep, your slow cooker does all the work, blending spices, vegetables, and meats into a delicious one-pot meal that’s perfect for family dinners or gatherings.

Ingredients:

• 2 cubed chicken breasts (skinless, boneless)
• 1 pound sliced andouille sausage
• 1 (28-ounce) can diced tomatoes
• 1 large chopped onion
• 2 stalks thinly sliced celery
• 1 finely chopped red bell pepper
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• ½ teaspoon dried thyme
• 2 teaspoons dried oregano
• 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
• ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 1 cup uncooked long-grain rice (see notes*)
• 1 pound raw shrimp (13-15 count)

Instructions:

1. Add chicken, sausage, diced tomatoes, onion, celery, red bell pepper, chicken broth, tomato paste, thyme, oregano, Cajun seasoning, and cayenne pepper into the slow cooker. Stir to combine.
2. Set the cooker to low for 7-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
3. One hour before cooking is done, stir in the uncooked long-grain rice.
4. In the last 15 minutes of cooking, add the raw shrimp and let it cook until pink and tender.
5. Serve hot and enjoy the bold Cajun flavors.

Serving and Storage Tips

• Serve your jambalaya hot with a side of cornbread or over rice for extra texture.
• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• To reheat, add a splash of broth or water to keep it moist and warm it in the microwave or on the stovetop.
• You can also freeze it for up to 2 months; thaw overnight before reheating.

Variations

1. Spicy Jambalaya: Add extra cayenne pepper or hot sauce for a fiery kick.
2. Seafood Jambalaya: Replace chicken and sausage with crab, scallops, and crawfish.
3. Vegetarian Jambalaya: Skip the meat and add okra, zucchini, and mushrooms.
4. Smoky Jambalaya: Use smoked sausage or add a dash of smoked paprika.
5. Brown Rice Jambalaya: Swap white rice for brown rice for a nuttier flavor.
6. Quinoa Jambalaya: Use quinoa instead of rice for a protein-packed twist.
7. Cheesy Jambalaya: Stir in shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack before serving.
8. Turkey Jambalaya: Use ground turkey or turkey sausage for a lighter option.
9. Shrimp-Only Jambalaya: Skip chicken and sausage for a full seafood experience.
10. Low-Carb Jambalaya: Replace rice with riced cauliflower for a keto-friendly version.
11. Creole Jambalaya: Add diced tomatoes and Worcestershire sauce for a tangy kick.
12. Tex-Mex Jambalaya: Add corn, black beans, and chili powder for a Southwestern spin.
13. Sausage and Peppers Jambalaya: Add extra bell peppers for a sweeter taste.
14. Herb Jambalaya: Increase oregano, thyme, and parsley for a more aromatic dish.
15. Slow Cooker Gumbo-Style Jambalaya: Add a roux base for a thicker, stew-like texture.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen shrimp? Yes, just thaw them before adding in the last 15 minutes.
2. What type of rice works best? Long-grain white rice holds up best and stays fluffy.
3. Can I cook it overnight? Yes, on low setting; just add shrimp in the morning before serving.
4. How can I make it less spicy? Reduce or omit the cayenne pepper and Cajun seasoning.
5. Can I use cooked shrimp? Add them at the very end just to heat through, not overcook.
6. Is jambalaya gluten-free? Yes, as long as your sausage and seasonings are gluten-free.
7. What if my rice is undercooked? Add more broth and cook a little longer.
8. Can I use instant rice? Yes, but add it only 10 minutes before the end of cooking.
9. What vegetables can I add? Try adding okra, carrots, or green bell peppers.
10. Can I double the recipe? Yes, just use a larger slow cooker (6-7 quarts) and extend cooking time slightly.

This Slow Cooker Jambalaya is a foolproof way to enjoy the deep, comforting flavors of Louisiana without standing over the stove. The combination of chicken, sausage, and shrimp with aromatic spices creates a rich, satisfying dish that’s sure to become a family favorite. It’s hearty, flavorful, and perfect for any night of the week.

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