Simple Slow Cooker Chicken Jambalaya
Highlighted under: Global Flavors
Discover the ease of preparing a classic Jambalaya with this Simple Slow Cooker recipe. Perfectly seasoned chicken, sausage, and vibrant vegetables come together for a delightful meal.
This Simple Slow Cooker Chicken Jambalaya is a hearty and flavorful dish that brings the taste of New Orleans to your kitchen. With minimal effort, you can enjoy a delicious meal that's perfect for busy weeknights or gatherings with friends.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- A one-pot meal that's easy to prepare.
- Bursting with bold flavors and spices.
- Perfect for leftovers and meal prep.
A Delicious One-Pot Meal
One of the best aspects of this Simple Slow Cooker Chicken Jambalaya is that it’s a one-pot meal, making cleanup a breeze. With everything cooked together, the flavors meld beautifully, resulting in a dish that’s rich and satisfying. The slow cooking process allows the chicken and sausage to become tender while infusing the rice with all the flavorful juices. This is the kind of meal that not only feeds the stomach but also warms the soul.
By utilizing a slow cooker, you can set it and forget it, which is perfect for busy weekdays or lazy weekends. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting a gathering, this Jambalaya is sure to impress. Just gather your ingredients, toss them into the slow cooker, and let it do all the work for you.
The Perfect Balance of Flavors
Jambalaya is known for its bold and vibrant flavors, and this recipe does not disappoint. The combination of smoked sausage and tender chicken provides a lovely depth, while the Cajun seasoning adds just the right amount of heat. The fresh bell peppers and onions give it a crisp texture and a burst of color, making each bite a delight.
Additionally, the diced tomatoes and chicken broth create a savory base that enhances the overall taste of the dish. This harmonious blend of ingredients ensures that every spoonful is packed with flavor, making it a meal that you’ll crave again and again.
Perfect for Meal Prep and Leftovers
One of the great advantages of this Simple Slow Cooker Chicken Jambalaya is its suitability for meal prep. It stores well in the refrigerator for up to four days, allowing you to enjoy leftovers for lunch or dinner throughout the week. Just reheat and you’re ready to go! This makes it a fantastic choice for busy individuals or families looking to simplify their weekly meals.
Moreover, the flavors actually improve after a day in the fridge, as the spices have time to meld even further. This means that not only do you save time, but you also get to enjoy an even tastier dish the next day. It's a win-win situation!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1/2 pound smoked sausage, sliced
- 1 cup bell peppers, diced
- 1 cup onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 2 cups uncooked long-grain rice
- 2 teaspoons Cajun seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Green onions, for garnish
Make sure to have all the ingredients ready before starting your slow cooker.
Instructions
Prepare the Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the chicken, sausage, bell peppers, onion, garlic, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, rice, and Cajun seasoning. Mix well.
Slow Cook the Jambalaya
Transfer the mixture to the slow cooker. Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or until the chicken is cooked through and the rice is tender.
Serve and Enjoy
Once cooked, fluff the jambalaya with a fork. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped green onions before serving.
Serve hot and enjoy your meal!
Tips for Success
To enhance the flavor profile of your Jambalaya, consider adding a bay leaf or a splash of hot sauce during the cooking process. This can elevate the dish and provide an extra kick that many enjoy. Additionally, for a heartier version, feel free to add more vegetables such as zucchini or corn, which can complement the existing ingredients beautifully.
Make sure to use long-grain rice, as it cooks perfectly in the slow cooker. Avoid using quick-cooking rice, as it may become mushy and alter the texture of your dish. Always check the rice toward the end of the cooking time to ensure it’s tender but not overcooked.
Serving Suggestions
This Simple Slow Cooker Chicken Jambalaya is delicious on its own but can be paired with sides for a more rounded meal. Consider serving it with a simple green salad to add freshness and crunch. You can also offer crusty bread or cornbread to soak up the delicious juices.
For those who love a little extra heat, provide hot sauce on the side, allowing guests to customize their spice levels. A dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of cheese can also add a creamy texture that complements the dish beautifully.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use other proteins?
Yes, shrimp or other seafood can be added for a different twist.
→ Can I make this recipe in advance?
Absolutely! This dish is great for meal prep and can be reheated easily.
→ What can I serve with jambalaya?
Jambalaya is a complete meal, but you can serve it with crusty bread or a fresh salad.
→ Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze leftover jambalaya in airtight containers for up to 3 months.
Simple Slow Cooker Chicken Jambalaya
Discover the ease of preparing a classic Jambalaya with this Simple Slow Cooker recipe. Perfectly seasoned chicken, sausage, and vibrant vegetables come together for a delightful meal.
Created by: Chloe Bennett
Recipe Type: Global Flavors
Skill Level: Beginner
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1/2 pound smoked sausage, sliced
- 1 cup bell peppers, diced
- 1 cup onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 2 cups uncooked long-grain rice
- 2 teaspoons Cajun seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Green onions, for garnish
How-To Steps
In a large bowl, combine the chicken, sausage, bell peppers, onion, garlic, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, rice, and Cajun seasoning. Mix well.
Transfer the mixture to the slow cooker. Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or until the chicken is cooked through and the rice is tender.
Once cooked, fluff the jambalaya with a fork. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped green onions before serving.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Total Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
- Sodium: 900mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 52g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 3g
- Protein: 25g