20 Quick Southern Jambalaya Recipe Ignite Your Passion For Cooking!
Published on: Apr 4, 2024
Jambalaya is a classic dish that originated in the southern region of the United States, particularly in Louisiana. It is a hearty and flavorful one-pot meal that is perfect for feeding a crowd or for a quick and easy weeknight dinner. This quick southern jambalaya recipe is a great way to introduce this delicious dish to your family and friends. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you can have a delicious and authentic jambalaya on the table in no time.
Main Ingredients: Chicken, Green Bell Pepper, Red Bell Pepper, Jalapeno
Are you looking for a flavorful and filling meal that will impress your guests? Look no further than this delicious chicken and sausage jambalaya recipe. Made with tender chicken, spicy sausage, and aromatic vegetables, this dish is sure to be a hit at any gathering.
The key to a good jambalaya is layering flavors, and this recipe does just that. The chicken and sausage are first browned to create a deep, rich base. Then, the holy trinity of Cajun cooking – onions, bell peppers, and celery – are added for a burst of flavor. Finally, the addition of Creole seasoning and smoked paprika gives this jambalaya its signature spice and smokiness.
But what sets this jambalaya apart from the rest is the use of rice cooker or Instant Pot. By using these convenient appliances, you can have a perfectly cooked jambalaya in just a fraction of the time. No more standing over a stove and constantly stirring – just set it and forget it.
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Rice Cooker Chicken and Sausage Jambalaya
Main Ingredients: Butter, Onion, Red Bell Pepper, Garlic, Andouille
For those who prefer a traditional stovetop method, this chicken and sausage jambalaya can also be made in a rice cooker. The rice cooker method is especially useful for those who don't have access to a stove, such as college students living in dorms or campers. Simply add all the ingredients to the rice cooker and let it do the work for you.
This method also produces a slightly drier jambalaya, which is perfect for those who enjoy a thicker, more stew-like consistency. And the best part? Clean-up is a breeze.
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Instant Pot Chicken and Sausage Jambalaya
Main Ingredients: Oil, Andouille Sausages, Boneless Skinless Chicken
If you're short on time, the Instant Pot method is the way to go. This modern pressure cooker can produce a delicious jambalaya in just a fraction of the time it takes to make it on the stove. Plus, the pressure cooking process infuses the flavors even more, resulting in a deeply flavorful dish.
This method is also great for meal prepping, as it can easily be made in large batches and stored in the fridge or freezer for later. Simply reheat and enjoy a delicious and convenient meal.
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Chicken and Sausage Jambalaya with Cauliflower "Rice"
Main Ingredients: Olive, Onions, Green Bell Peppers, Green Onions
For a healthier twist on this classic dish, try using cauliflower "rice" instead of traditional rice. Not only does this add an extra serving of vegetables, but it also cuts down on carbs and calories. You won't even notice the difference in taste, as the cauliflower absorbs all the delicious flavors from the chicken and sausage.
For those who are following a keto or paleo diet, this is a perfect option that still satisfies those jambalaya cravings.
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Authentic Chicken and Sausage Jambalaya
Main Ingredients: Chicken Breast, Andouille Sausage, Long Grain White
While there are many variations of jambalaya, this recipe stays true to its Cajun roots. By using authentic andouille sausage and chicken thighs, this jambalaya is packed with traditional flavors and ingredients. Serve it with a side of cornbread and collard greens for a complete Southern meal.
For those who are feeling adventurous, you can also add in other traditional ingredients such as okra, crawfish, or shrimp. Just be sure to adjust the cooking times accordingly.
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Easy Chicken and Sausage Jambalaya
Main Ingredients: Olive Oil, Boneless Skinless Chicken Thighs, Andouille
This recipe may look impressive, but it's actually quite easy to make. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep work, you can have a delicious jambalaya on the table in no time. And thanks to the convenient rice cooker or Instant Pot method, there's hardly any clean-up involved.
So the next time you're in need of a quick and easy meal that doesn't sacrifice on flavor, give this jambalaya a try.
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Cajun Chicken and Sausage Jambalaya
Main Ingredients: Boneless Skinless Chicken Breast, Sausage, Onions
Inspired by the flavors of New Orleans, this cajun style jambalaya takes things up a notch. The addition of hot sauce and crushed red pepper give this dish an extra kick of spice, perfect for those who like a little heat in their meals. Serve it with a side of hush puppies for the ultimate Southern feast.
For those who prefer a milder version, simply adjust the spice levels to your liking. This versatile dish can cater to all taste buds.
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Chicken and Sausage Jambalaya with Rice
Main Ingredients: Olive Oil, Chicken, Smoked Sausage, Onion, Green Bell
Last but not least, we can't forget about the classic rice version of this jambalaya. This recipe uses a combination of white rice and brown rice for added texture and nutrition. And if you're feeling extra fancy, you can even use risotto rice for a creamier and more indulgent dish.
No matter which type of rice you choose, this jambalaya is sure to be a hit. Serve it with a side of cornbread and green beans for a hearty and satisfying meal.
The Key Ingredients
Andouille Sausage
One of the key ingredients in this quick southern jambalaya recipe is andouille sausage. This smoked pork sausage is a staple in Cajun and Creole cuisine and adds a rich and spicy flavor to the dish. You can find andouille sausage at most grocery stores, but if it's not available, you can use any smoked sausage as a substitute.
Chicken and Shrimp
This recipe also calls for chicken and shrimp, which add protein and heartiness to the dish. You can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, and for the shrimp, make sure to use peeled and deveined shrimp for convenience. Alternatively, you can also use other types of seafood such as crawfish or crab.
Trinity Vegetables
The "trinity" in Cajun and Creole cooking refers to a combination of onions, bell peppers, and celery. These three vegetables are the base of many dishes, including jambalaya. They add depth of flavor and a little bit of crunch to the dish.
Tomatoes and Spices
Tomatoes and spices are essential for the rich and bold flavor of jambalaya. This recipe calls for canned diced tomatoes, which can easily be substituted with fresh tomatoes. As for spices, a combination of cayenne pepper, paprika, and thyme adds the perfect amount of heat and depth of flavor to the dish.
The Cooking Process
Once you have all your ingredients ready, the cooking process is quick and straightforward. The key is to sauté the trinity vegetables until they are slightly softened before adding in the chicken, sausage, and shrimp. This ensures that all the flavors are well incorporated and the vegetables are cooked evenly. Then, add in the tomatoes, spices, and rice, and let it all simmer together until the rice is cooked and the flavors have melded.
Customizing Your Jambalaya
One of the great things about jambalaya is its versatility. You can easily customize this recipe to your liking by adding in other ingredients such as okra, bell peppers, or even different types of meat. You can also adjust the level of heat by adding more or less cayenne pepper. The possibilities are endless, so feel free to get creative and make this recipe your own.
In Conclusion
This quick southern jambalaya recipe is a great way to introduce the flavors of the south to your kitchen. It's a simple and delicious dish that is perfect for any occasion. So why not give it a try and bring a taste of Louisiana to your dinner table tonight?
