If you’re craving a flavorful Southern classic that’s hearty, colorful, and bursting with spice, this quick & tasty jambalaya recipe is the one for you! Perfect for weeknight dinners or family gatherings, jambalaya combines rice, sausage, chicken, and shrimp with bold Cajun seasonings to create a one-pot wonder that’s both comforting and unforgettable.
Ingredients (Serves 4–6)
Protein:
8 oz (225 g) andouille sausage, sliced
1 lb (450 g) chicken breast or thighs, cut into chunks
½ lb (225 g) shrimp, peeled and deveined
Vegetables:
1 onion, diced
1 green bell pepper, diced
2 celery stalks, chopped
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 tomato, chopped (or 1 can diced tomatoes, 14 oz / 400 g)
Rice & Liquid:
1 ½ cups long-grain white rice
3 cups chicken broth
2 tbsp tomato paste
Seasonings:
2 tsp Cajun seasoning (adjust to taste)
½ tsp smoked paprika
½ tsp thyme
¼ tsp black pepper
Salt to taste
Optional: pinch of cayenne pepper for heat
For Garnish:
Fresh parsley, chopped
Green onions, sliced
Instructions
Step 1: Sear the Meats
Heat 1 tbsp of oil in a large pot or deep skillet over medium heat.
Add the sausage slices and cook until browned. Remove and set aside.
In the same pot, add chicken pieces and cook until golden on all sides. Remove and set aside with the sausage.
Step 2: Sauté the Veggies
Add a drizzle of oil if needed, then sauté the onion, bell pepper, and celery for 3–4 minutes until soft.
Add the garlic and cook another 30 seconds until fragrant.
Step 3: Add Spices and Rice
Stir in Cajun seasoning, paprika, thyme, and tomato paste.
Add the rice and stir to coat each grain in the spice mixture. This gives your jambalaya a deeper flavor.
Step 4: Simmer
Pour in chicken broth and diced tomatoes. Stir well.
Return the sausage and chicken to the pot.
Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is mostly absorbed.
Step 5: Add the Shrimp
Stir in the shrimp during the last 5 minutes of cooking.
Once shrimp are pink and cooked through, remove from heat.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Fluff the jambalaya with a fork, sprinkle with parsley and green onions, and serve hot!
Tips for Perfect Jambalaya
Don’t stir too much once the rice starts cooking—it can become mushy.
For a smokier flavor, add a bit of liquid smoke or extra smoked paprika.
You can swap shrimp for crawfish or crab meat for a seafood twist.
For a vegetarian version, skip the meat and use vegetable broth with okra, mushrooms, and chickpeas.
Why You’ll Love This Quick & Tasty Jambalaya Recipe
It’s ready in under 45 minutes.
It’s one pot, so cleanup is easy.
Every bite bursts with authentic Cajun flavor.
It’s versatile—make it mild or fiery hot!
Serve with:
A side of cornbread or garlic bread.
A light salad or collard greens.