Cozy Homestyle Slow Cooker Jambalaya Recipe to Warm Your Soul

Spice up your dinner routine with a mouthwatering slow cooker jambalaya that brings the vibrant flavors of Louisiana straight to your kitchen.

This one-pot wonder combines tender shrimp, savory sausage, and perfectly seasoned rice in a delightful culinary adventure.

Bold Creole spices dance through every bite, creating a symphony of taste that will transport you to the heart of New Orleans.

The slow cooker works its magic, allowing ingredients to meld and develop rich, deep flavors throughout the day.

Each spoonful promises a perfect balance of heat, protein, and comfort that will have everyone at the table asking for seconds.

Gather your ingredients and let this jambalaya become the star of your next meal, promising a delicious journey through Southern comfort cuisine.

Quick Recipe Overview

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 6-7 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)

Total Time: 7 hours 15 minutes

Calories: 410 kcal

Servings: 6

Slow Cooker Jambalaya Ingredient List

• Chicken: Succulent, tender meat that adds hearty flavor and protein to the jambalaya.
• Andouille Sausage: Spicy Cajun sausage that brings smoky depth and authentic Louisiana character.

• Onion: Foundational flavor builder that provides sweet and savory undertones.
• Bell Pepper: Crisp vegetable that adds vibrant color and fresh, slightly tangy taste.
• Celery: Classic Creole ingredient that contributes subtle herbal notes and texture.

• Chicken Broth: Rich, savory liquid that helps marry all ingredients and create depth.
• Diced Tomatoes: Juicy base that adds moisture and bright, slightly acidic flavor.
• Tomato Paste: Concentrated tomato essence that intensifies the overall sauce richness.
• Garlic: Pungent allium that delivers robust, aromatic kick to the dish.
• Cajun Seasoning: Signature spice blend capturing the essential Louisiana taste profile.
• Dried Thyme: Earthy herb that provides traditional Creole herbal undertones.
• Bay Leaf: Subtle aromatics that infuse complex background flavor.
• Salt and Black Pepper: Essential seasoning for balancing and enhancing overall taste.
• Rice: Hearty grain that absorbs flavors and serves as the ultimate comfort food base.

Equipment Needed for Slow Cooker Jambalaya

• Slow Cooker: Essential for easy, hands-off cooking and perfect for this jambalaya.
• Skillet: Large, sturdy pan needed to brown chicken and sausage before slow cooking.
• Cutting Board: Solid surface for slicing meats and preparing ingredients.
• Chef's Knife: Sharp blade for precise cutting of chicken, sausage, and vegetables.
• Wooden Spoon or Spatula: Helps stir and transfer ingredients between skillet and slow cooker.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: Ensures accurate ingredient proportions for balanced flavor.

Instructions for Flavorful Slow Cooker Jambalaya

• Brown Meat Quickly

Sizzle chicken and sausage in a skillet until they develop a golden crust. This step locks in those rich, meaty flavors that make jambalaya so irresistible.

• Layer Flavor Foundation

Toss vibrant bell peppers, zesty onions, and spicy celery into the same skillet. Let them dance and caramelize, soaking up all the delicious remnants from the meat.

• Spice It Up

Sprinkle a generous mix of Cajun seasoning, paprika, and thyme over the vegetables. The aroma will start to fill your kitchen with mouthwatering Southern comfort.

• Create Liquid

Pour diced tomatoes, chicken broth, and a splash of Worcestershire sauce into the slow cooker. This liquid will transform into a rich, complex sauce that makes every bite spectacular.

• Combine and Simmer

Mix all ingredients gently in the slow cooker. Cover and let the happen on low heat for 6-7 hours, allowing flavors to meld and develop deep, hearty character.

• Add Final Touches

Stir in rice during the last 30 minutes of cooking. Let it absorb all those incredible juices and become perfectly tender.

• Serve and Enjoy

Scoop this steaming, colorful jambalaya into bowls. Garnish with fresh green onions for a burst of brightness and dig into a taste of Louisiana.

Jambalaya Cooking Tips for Bold Cajun Flavor

• Experiment with different meats like shrimp, turkey sausage, or plant-based sausage to create unique flavor profiles and accommodate dietary preferences.
• Adjust the heat by using mild or hot Cajun seasoning, adding extra cayenne pepper for more kick, or reducing spices for sensitive palates.
• Replace meat with extra firm tofu, tempeh, or a mix of hearty vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and mushrooms to create a plant-based version.
• Prepare ingredients the night before, store in the refrigerator, and pop into the slow cooker in the morning for an effortless meal that's ready by dinner time.
• Portion and freeze leftovers in airtight containers for up to 3 months, making it a convenient meal for busy weeknights or last-minute dinner plans.

How to Serve Your Jambalaya Feast

• Spice Up Your Plate: Add a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or green onions on top for a burst of color and freshness.
• Creole Companion: Serve alongside warm, fluffy cornbread or crusty French bread to soak up the delicious sauce and complement the jambalaya's rich flavors.
• Zesty Side Kick: Pair with a crisp green salad dressed in a light vinaigrette to balance the hearty and spicy main dish, creating a well-rounded meal that satisfies every taste bud.
• Cool Down Option: Offer a dollop of sour cream or a wedge of lime on the side to help cool the palate and add a tangy contrast to the spicy jambalaya.

Storing Leftovers of Jambalaya with Care

• Use airtight, leak-proof containers with secure lids to keep jambalaya fresh in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Portion cooled jambalaya into individual freezer-safe containers, which can be stored for 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Gently warm jambalaya in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth to restore moisture and prevent drying. Stir occasionally to distribute heat evenly.
• If possible, store rice separately from other jambalaya components to maintain optimal texture when reheating. Mix ingredients just before serving for the freshest taste and best consistency.

FAQs

• What are the key proteins in this jambalaya?

Chicken and andouille sausage are the primary proteins, providing rich, bold flavors and traditional Creole taste.

• Can I use a different type of sausage?

Yes, you can substitute andouille with smoked sausage or kielbasa, though andouille offers the most authentic Creole flavor profile.

• Do I need to pre-cook the meats before adding to the slow cooker?

Yes, searing the chicken and sausage first helps develop deeper flavors and creates a nice browned exterior that enhances the overall taste of the jambalaya.

• Is this recipe spicy?

The dish has a moderate heat level from the andouille sausage and potential added spices, but you can adjust the spiciness by choosing mild sausage or reducing cayenne pepper in the recipe.

Hearty Slow Cooker Jambalaya Recipe

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4.8 from 27 reviews

• Total Time: 7 hours 15 minutes
• Yield: 7 1x

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Description

Hearty Louisiana jambalaya combines spicy sausage, tender chicken, and plump shrimp in a rich, one-pot meal. Cajun flavors meld together slowly, creating a comforting dish that will transport you to New Orleans.

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Ingredients

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• 1 lb (450 g) chicken breast or thighs, diced
• 12 oz (340 g) smoked sausage, sliced (Andouille or kielbasa)
• 1 lb (450 g) raw shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 green bell pepper, diced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 3 celery stalks, chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (14.5 oz or 400 g) diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1 cup (240 ml) chicken broth
• 2 tsps Cajun seasoning (or Creole seasoning)
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• ½ tsp thyme
• ½ tsp oregano
• ¼ tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
• 1 cup (180 g) uncooked long-grain rice (optional, if cooking in the slow cooker)
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 tbsps chopped parsley (optional, for garnish)

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Instructions

1. Protein Preparation: Sear chicken and sausage in a skillet until golden brown, developing a rich caramelized exterior that enhances the meat’s natural flavors, then transfer to the slow cooker.
2. Aromatic Base: Create a classic Creole foundation by layering diced onions, bell peppers, and celery into the slow cooker, establishing the dish’s characteristic flavor profile.
3. Seasoning and Flavor Infusion: Generously sprinkle Cajun seasoning, minced garlic, thyme, and oregano across the ingredients, ensuring a robust and complex taste throughout the jambalaya.
4. Liquid and Rice Integration: Gently pour crushed tomatoes and chicken broth over the layered ingredients, carefully incorporating uncooked rice to maintain the dish’s structural integrity.
5. Slow Cooking Process: Cover and set the slow cooker to low heat, allowing the jambalaya to simmer and develop deep, intermingling flavors for 6-7 hours, or until rice reaches perfect tenderness and proteins are thoroughly cooked.
6. Seafood Finale: During the last 30 minutes of cooking, gently fold in raw shrimp, allowing them to delicately poach in the spicy, rich liquid without overcooking.
7. Serving Presentation: Fluff the rice, gently stir to distribute ingredients evenly, and garnish with fresh chopped parsley. Serve hot, showcasing the vibrant colors and enticing aromas of this New Orleans-inspired culinary masterpiece.

Notes

Sear Meats First: Caramelizing chicken and sausage before slow cooking creates deeper flavor complexity and helps seal in natural juices, preventing bland protein textures.

Control Spice Levels: Adjust Cajun seasoning gradually to accommodate different heat tolerances, allowing each cook to personalize the dish’s intensity without overwhelming the palate.

Rice Absorption Technique: Add rice during last stages of cooking to prevent overcooking and mushy texture, ensuring each grain remains distinct and perfectly tender.

Seafood Timing Matters: Introduce shrimp only in final 30 minutes to prevent rubbery, overcooked shellfish and maintain delicate, succulent protein quality.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 6-7 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
• Category: Dinner, Lunch
• Method: Slow Cooking
• Cuisine: Cajun/Creole

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 7
• Calories: 380
• Sugar: 3 g
• Sodium: 900 mg
• Fat: 15 g
• Saturated Fat: 4 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 38 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Protein: 28 g
• Cholesterol: 120 mg