Savor the Bold Flavors: New Orleans Cajun Chicken and Sausage Jambalaya Recipe

Experience the Essence of New Orleans Cuisine

New Orleans, known for its vibrant culture and rich history, shines in its culinary scene, especially with dishes that reflect its Cajun and Creole heritage. One such dish is Cajun chicken and sausage jambalaya, a beloved one-pot meal that embodies the spirit of Louisiana’s flavorful cooking. Bursting with spices and ingredients, it brings a vibrant warmth to your table, perfect for any gathering.

New Orleans Cajun Chicken and Sausage Jambalaya

A bold and flavorful one-pot dish made with tender chicken, smoked sausage, bell peppers, onions, and rice — seasoned with Cajun spices for authentic New Orleans flavor.

🕒 Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 15 minutes

• Cook Time: 45 minutes

• Total Time: 1 hour

• Servings: 6–8

🧂 Ingredients

Proteins

• 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, diced

• 1 lb (450g) smoked andouille sausage, sliced

Vegetables

• 1 large onion, diced

• 1 green bell pepper, diced

• 1 red bell pepper, diced

• 2 celery stalks, chopped

• 4 cloves garlic, minced

Rice & Liquid

• 1½ cups (285g) long-grain white rice

• 3 cups (720ml) chicken broth

• 1 (14 oz) can diced tomatoes with juice

Seasonings

• 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning

• 1 teaspoon paprika

• ½ teaspoon thyme

• ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat)

• 2 bay leaves

• Salt and black pepper to taste

• 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter

Optional Garnish

• Chopped green onions

• Fresh parsley

🔪 Directions

1. Brown the Meat
   Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven or skillet over medium-high heat.
   Add chicken pieces and season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of Cajun seasoning.
   Brown on all sides, then remove from pan.
   Add sausage and cook until lightly browned; remove and set aside.

2. Sauté the Vegetables
   In the same pan, add onions, bell peppers, celery, and garlic.
   Cook for 5–7 minutes until softened and fragrant.

3. Build the Base
   Stir in rice, Cajun seasoning, paprika, thyme, cayenne, and bay leaves.
   Toast the rice for about 1 minute to absorb flavor.

4. Add Liquids & Simmer
   Add chicken broth and diced tomatoes.
   Return the chicken and sausage to the pan.
   Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 25–30 minutes, or until rice is tender.

5. Fluff & Serve
   Remove bay leaves. Fluff the rice with a fork and sprinkle with green onions and parsley.
   Serve warm with hot sauce on the side for extra kick!

💡 Pro Tips

• Don’t stir too often while cooking — this keeps the rice fluffy, not mushy.

• For extra flavor, add a splash of Worcestershire sauce or smoked paprika.

• Want it spicier? Add a few slices of jalapeño or a dash of Creole seasoning.