Craving a delicious, vibrant dish that's both easy to make and bursting with flavor? Look no further than this Chicken Sausage Shrimp Jambalaya! This one-pot wonder is a celebration of Cajun and Creole cuisine, bringing together succulent chicken sausage, juicy shrimp, and a medley of colorful vegetables in a rich, spicy tomato-based sauce. It's perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering – guaranteed to impress your family and friends! This recipe offers a healthy twist on a classic, making it a fantastic addition to your collection of healthy meals and quick dinner ideas. Get ready to embark on a culinary adventure!
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound chicken sausage, sliced (Andouille is traditional, but any flavorful chicken sausage works)
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (or more, to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
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Sauté the sausage and vegetables: Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the chicken sausage and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the sausage from the pot and set aside. Add the onion, bell peppers, and celery to the pot and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the garlic, oregano, thyme, cayenne pepper, and black pepper and cook for another minute until fragrant.
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Simmer the sauce: Add the crushed tomatoes, diced tomatoes, and chicken broth to the pot. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
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Add rice and sausage: Stir in the cooked chicken sausage and rice. Return to a simmer, cover, and cook for 15 more minutes, or until the rice is almost cooked through.
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Cook the shrimp: Add the shrimp to the pot and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until they are pink and opaque. Do not overcook!
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Serve and enjoy: Remove from heat and let stand for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired. Serve hot!
Cooking Tips for the Best Jambalaya:
- Don't overcrowd the pot: If you have a large amount of vegetables or sausage, you may need to cook them in batches to ensure even browning.
- Adjust the spice level: Cayenne pepper brings the heat; start with less and add more to your liking. For a milder jambalaya, omit the cayenne entirely.
- Use good quality ingredients: The flavor of your jambalaya will be greatly enhanced by using fresh, high-quality ingredients.
- Don't overcook the shrimp: Overcooked shrimp will be tough and rubbery. Cook just until they turn pink and opaque.
Variations:
- Andouille Sausage: For a more authentic flavor, substitute Andouille sausage for chicken sausage.
- Vegetarian Jambalaya: Omit the sausage and shrimp, and add your favorite vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or eggplant.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for extra heat.
- Seafood Extravaganza: Add other types of seafood, such as crawfish or mussels, along with the shrimp.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 400-450
- Protein: 25-30g
- Fat: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 40-45g
This Chicken Sausage Shrimp Jambalaya recipe is a simple, yet incredibly flavorful dish perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. It's a delicious and satisfying meal that's sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy your homemade cooking and savor every bite of this easy recipe! It’s one of the best recipes for a reason!