Name: Slow Cooker Cajun Jambalaya with Chicken, Sausage & Shrimp
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 7 h 30 min
Total time: 7 h 45 min
Cuisine: Cajun
Ingredients: 1 lb chicken breasts, cubed; 1 lb andouille sausage, sliced; 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with juices; 1 onion, chopped; 2 celery stalks, chopped; 1 bell pepper, chopped; 4 cups chicken broth; 2 tbsp tomato paste; 1 tsp dried thyme; 1 tsp oregano; 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning; 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper; 1 cup uncooked long-grain rice; 1 lb raw shrimp, peeled and deveined

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Flavorful and hearty, Slow Cooker Cajun Jambalaya with Chicken, Sausage & Shrimp brings the taste of New Orleans to your dinner table. This one-pot dish features a delightful combination of chicken, andouille sausage, and shrimp, simmered together with aromatic spices and vibrant vegetables. The slow cooking process ensures that all the flavors meld together beautifully, making for a satisfying meal with minimal effort. Perfect for gatherings or a cozy family dinner, this jambalaya is sure to impress!

Recipe Information

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 7–8 hours (low) / 3–4 hours (high)
Total Time: 7 hours 15 minutes (low) / 3 hours 15 minutes (high)
Servings: 6
Difficulty Level: Easy

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving: 450
Protein: 30g
Carbohydrates: 45g
Fat: 15g
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 3g
Sodium: 850mg

Why Make This Slow Cooker Cajun Jambalaya with Chicken, Sausage & Shrimp

Slow Cooker Cajun Jambalaya with Chicken, Sausage & Shrimp is a fantastic dish for busy weeknights or festive occasions. The slow cooker does all the work for you, allowing the robust flavors of Cajun spices to seep into the chicken, sausage, and shrimp. Plus, it’s a complete meal in one pot, meaning less cleanup afterward! With its balance of protein, carbs, and vegetables, this jambalaya is not only satisfying but also nutrition-packed.

How to Make Slow Cooker Cajun Jambalaya with Chicken, Sausage & Shrimp

Step 1: Preparation

Start by gathering all of your ingredients. Cube the chicken breasts, slice the andouille sausage, and chop the onion, celery, and bell pepper. This prep work will save you time later and get you ready for a seamless cooking process.

Step 2: Mixing

In your slow cooker, combine the cubed chicken, sliced sausage, diced tomatoes (with juices), chopped onion, celery, and bell pepper. Pour in the chicken broth and add the tomato paste. Sprinkle in the dried thyme, oregano, Cajun seasoning, and cayenne pepper. Give everything a good stir to ensure the spices are evenly distributed throughout the ingredients.

Step 3: Cooking

Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on low for 7–8 hours, or on high for 3–4 hours. The key is to let the flavors meld and the chicken become tender. Check the dish occasionally to ensure it’s cooking evenly.

Step 4: Finishing

One hour before the cooking time is up, stir in the uncooked long-grain rice. Then, in the last 15 minutes of cooking, add the raw shrimp. Cook until the shrimp turn pink and opaque, indicating that they are fully cooked. Once done, ladle the jambalaya into bowls and enjoy it warm!

How to Serve Slow Cooker Cajun Jambalaya with Chicken, Sausage & Shrimp

This delectable jambalaya can be served as a hearty main dish. Consider garnishing it with chopped green onions or fresh parsley for a splash of color. Serve it alongside warm, crusty bread or a refreshing green salad to balance the dish. For a special touch, you might pair the meal with a cold glass of sweet tea or a light beer.

How to Store Slow Cooker Cajun Jambalaya with Chicken, Sausage & Shrimp

To store any leftovers, allow the jambalaya to cool to room temperature. Then, transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days in the refrigerator. For longer storage, consider freezing the jambalaya in freezer-safe bags or containers; it can last up to 3 months in the freezer. When ready to enjoy again, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove or microwave.

Expert Tips for Perfect Slow Cooker Cajun Jambalaya with Chicken, Sausage & Shrimp

Choose quality ingredients: Good-quality sausage and fresh shrimp will enhance the overall flavor of the dish.
Adjust the spice level: If you prefer a milder jambalaya, reduce the amount of cayenne pepper or use mild Cajun seasoning.
Rice Tip: Ensure you use long-grain rice, as it holds its structure better during the cooking process.
Add More Vegetables: Feel free to add extra veggies like bell peppers or okra for more nutrition and texture.
Make It Ahead: This jambalaya can be made in advance and tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop.

Delicious Variations

Seafood Only: For a seafood version, skip the chicken and sausage altogether and use a combination of shrimp, crawfish, and crab meat.
Vegetarian Jambalaya: Substitute the meat with a variety of vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, and chickpeas, and replace chicken broth with vegetable broth.
Spicy Extra: Add diced jalapeños for an extra kick to satisfy those who like more heat in their meals.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, frozen shrimp can work well in this recipe. Just make sure to thaw them before adding them to the slow cooker in the last 15 minutes.
Do I need to brown the meat before cooking?
Browning adds flavor, but it’s not necessary for this recipe. You can add the raw meats directly to the slow cooker.
Is this dish gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free chicken broth and Cajun seasoning.
Can I omit rice?
Yes, you can make it a rice-free jambalaya. However, you may want to reduce the liquid in the recipe to avoid it becoming too soupy.
How do I know when the chicken and shrimp are done?
The chicken should be tender and cooked through, while the shrimp will be pink and opaque. Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.

Conclusion

Slow Cooker Cajun Jambalaya with Chicken, Sausage & Shrimp is a flavorful and comforting dish that’s perfect for feeding a crowd or enjoying with family. Its aromatic spices, tender proteins, and robust flavors come together effortlessly in your slow cooker, making it an ideal choice for busy cooks. Give this recipe a try, and you’ll find it becomes a regular on your dinner menu. Enjoy the taste of Cajun cooking right at home!