Slow Cooker Jambalaya 

Jambalaya is a classic Creole dish that brings together the rich flavors of Cajun cuisine in a hearty, one-pot meal. This slow cooker version simplifies the process, allowing you to enjoy a flavorful jambalaya without constant attention. The combination of sausage, shrimp, chicken, and vegetables simmered in a seasoned broth creates a comforting dish perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

• Proteins:

  • 1 pound andouille sausage, sliced into rounds

  • 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces

  • 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined

• Vegetables:

  • 1 large onion, diced

  • 1 green bell pepper, diced

  • 1 red bell pepper, diced

  • 2 celery stalks, diced

  • 3 cloves garlic, minced

• Canned & Dry Goods:

  • 1 (28-ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained

  • 2 cups chicken broth

  • 1 cup long-grain white rice (uncooked)

• Seasonings:

  • 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning

  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme

  • 1 bay leaf

  • Salt and black pepper, to taste

• Optional Garnish:

  • Fresh parsley, chopped

Directions

1. Prepare Ingredients: Slice the andouille sausage into rounds, dice the chicken thighs, and peel and devein the shrimp. Dice the onion, bell peppers, celery, and mince the garlic.

2. Layer in Slow Cooker: Place the diced chicken thighs at the bottom of the slow cooker. Add the sliced sausage, diced onion, bell peppers, celery, and minced garlic on top.

3. Add Liquids and Seasonings: Pour in the diced tomatoes (with their juice) and chicken broth. Sprinkle the Cajun seasoning, dried thyme, and bay leaf over the mixture. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.

4. Cook: Cover and cook on low for 4 to 5 hours, or until the chicken is tender and cooked through.

5. Add Rice: Stir in the uncooked rice, ensuring it's evenly distributed. Cover and cook for an additional 30 minutes, allowing the rice to absorb the flavors and cook through.

6. Add Shrimp: Ten to fifteen minutes before serving, stir in the shrimp. Continue to cook until the shrimp are pink and opaque.

7. Serve: Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Ladle the jambalaya into bowls and garnish with chopped fresh parsley. Serve hot and enjoy!

Nutritional Information (per serving)

• Calories: Approximately 404 kcal

• Protein: 26g

• Fat: 19g

  • Saturated Fat: 6g

• Carbohydrates: 32g

  • Dietary Fiber: 2g

  • Sugars: 3g

• Cholesterol: 123mg

• Sodium: 843mg

• Calcium: 68mg

• Iron: 5mg