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There are two main styles of jambalaya: Creole jambalaya, which includes tomatoes, and Cajun jambalaya, which does not. Both versions usually feature a combination of proteins like chicken, sausage (often Andouille), and shrimp, alongside the “holy trinity” of Cajun cooking—onions, bell peppers, and celery. Cooked slowly so the rice absorbs the rich, spicy broth, jambalaya is a filling and flavourful dish that captures the essence of Louisiana’s diverse food recipe heritage.

Classic Jambalaya Recipe (Serves 6)

Ingredients

• 2 tbsp vegetable oil

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

• 1 lb Andouille sausage, sliced

• 1 large onion, diced

• 1 green bell pepper, diced

• 2 celery stalks, diced

• 4 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes (for Creole style)

• 1½ cups long-grain white rice

• 3½ cups chicken broth

• 1 tsp dried thyme

• 1 tsp smoked paprika

• 1 tsp Cajun seasoning

• ½ tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)

• Salt and black pepper, to taste

• ½ lb shrimp, peeled and deveined

• 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)

• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

1.   Heat oil in a large heavy pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add chicken and sausage, cooking until browned. Remove and set aside.

2.   In the same pot, add onion, bell pepper, celery, and garlic. Sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.

3.   Stir in diced tomatoes (if using), thyme, paprika, Cajun seasoning, cayenne, salt, and pepper. Cook for 2 minutes to combine flavours.

4.   Add rice and chicken broth, scraping the bottom of the pot to loosen browned bits. Return chicken and sausage to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20 minutes.

5.   Stir in shrimp, cover again, and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes until shrimp is cooked through and rice is tender.

6.   Remove from heat and let sit covered for 5 minutes. Fluff rice with a fork.

7.   Garnish with green onions and parsley before serving.

Jambalaya FAQs

Q: Can I make jambalaya without sausage?
Yes, you can omit sausage or substitute with other proteins like ham or smoked turkey.

Q: Is jambalaya spicy?
It can be, but you can adjust the level of cayenne and Cajun seasoning to your taste.

Q: Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Brown rice can be used but will require longer cooking time and more liquid.

Q: Can jambalaya be made vegetarian?
Yes! Use vegetable broth and substitute meat with hearty vegetables or plant-based proteins.

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