How to Make the Perfect Easy Chicken Jambalaya
American · Easy · 50 min · 6 servings
This easy chicken jambalaya is a kid friendly one pot meal packed with bold flavor that the whole family enjoys. Tender chicken sausage and rice cooked together in a seasoned tomato base makes cleanup a breeze.
Why this recipe works
This Easy Chicken Jambalaya recipe has been crafted to deliver restaurant-quality results in your home kitchen. At just 50 minutes from start to finish, it fits perfectly into a busy schedule without sacrificing flavor. Each serving comes in at 420 calories with 30g of protein, making it a balanced choice for any meal.
What you will need
This recipe uses 6 simple ingredients that you can find at any grocery store:
- 1 lb boneless chicken breast cubed
- 12 oz smoked sausage sliced
- 1.5 cups long grain white rice
- 1 can diced tomatoes with juice
- 2.5 cups chicken broth
- 1 tsp cajun seasoning
Step by step instructions
Step 1: Brown Meat
In a large pot or dutch oven over medium high heat cook the chicken pieces until lightly browned about 5 minutes. Add sausage slices and cook another 3 minutes.
Step 2: Add Rice and Tomatoes
Stir in the uncooked rice diced tomatoes and cajun seasoning. Mix everything together so the rice is coated in the flavors from the pot.
Step 3: Simmer
Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low cover tightly and simmer for 25 minutes until rice is cooked and liquid is absorbed.
Step 4: Fluff and Serve
Remove lid and fluff the jambalaya gently with a fork. Taste and adjust seasoning then serve directly from the pot.
Easy substitutions
Missing an ingredient? Here are some swaps that work perfectly:
- cajun seasoning → a mix of paprika garlic powder and a pinch of oregano for a milder taste
- smoked sausage → turkey sausage for a lighter option kids enjoy
Common mistakes to avoid
Watch out for these pitfalls that can affect your results:
- Lifting the lid while rice is cooking which releases steam and unevenly cooks the rice
- Using too much liquid which makes the jambalaya mushy instead of fluffy
Nutrition facts
Per serving: 420 calories, 30g protein, 44g carbs, 14g fat, 3g fiber.
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