Go Back

Chicken Jambalaya

Chicken Jambalaya is a flavorful one-pot dish originating from Louisiana, combining the influences of Creole and Cajun cooking. Packed with spices, vegetables, rice, and tender chicken, it’s a comforting meal that brings bold flavors to the table.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Cajun/Creole
Servings 4 People
Calories 450 kcal

Equipment

  • 1 large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven
  • 1 wooden spoon or spatula
  • 1 measuring cups and spoons
  • 1 cutting board

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb chicken thighs, boneless and skinless Cut into bite-sized pieces.
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 onion diced
  • 1 bell pepper diced
  • 2 celery stalks diced
  • 3 garlic cloves minced
  • 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes With juices.
  • 1.5 cups long-grain rice
  • 3 cups chicken broth
  • 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 bay leaf
  • to taste salt and pepper
  • 1/2 cup green peas Optional.
  • for garnish chopped parsley Optional.

Instructions
 

  • Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion, bell pepper, and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the vegetables are softened.
  • Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute, stirring frequently to avoid burning.
  • Add the chicken pieces to the pot and season with salt, pepper, and Cajun seasoning. Sauté until the chicken is browned, about 5-7 minutes.
  • Pour in the canned diced tomatoes (with their juices), rice, chicken broth, dried thyme, and bay leaf. Stir everything together until well combined.
  • Increase the heat to high and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and has absorbed most of the liquid.
  • If using, stir in the green peas during the last 5 minutes of cooking. After cooking, remove the bay leaf.
  • Fluff the jambalaya with a fork and adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.

Notes

You can customize this jambalaya by adding shrimp, sausage, or other vegetables.
For spicier jambalaya, add cayenne pepper or hot sauce to taste.
Serve with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal. Enjoy!