Craving a dish that’s both vibrant and comforting? Look no further than this incredible Shrimp, Chicken, and Sausage Jambalaya recipe! This one-pot wonder is bursting with flavor, combining succulent shrimp, tender chicken, spicy sausage, and a medley of colorful vegetables all simmered in a rich and flavorful Cajun-inspired sauce. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend feast, this easy recipe is guaranteed to become a family favorite. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting your culinary journey, this jambalaya recipe is simple enough for beginners yet delicious enough to impress even the most experienced palates. Get ready to embark on a flavor adventure!
Ingredients:
This recipe serves 6-8 people. Adjust quantities as needed.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound Andouille sausage, sliced
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 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 thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (or more, to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup long-grain rice
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
- Salt, to taste
Instructions:
Get started: Heat the olive oil in a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. This ensures even cooking and prevents sticking.
Brown the sausage and chicken: Add the Andouille sausage and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the sausage from the pot and set aside. Add the chicken to the pot and cook until browned on all sides. This step builds depth of flavor.
Sauté the vegetables: Add the onion, bell peppers, and celery to the pot and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Stir frequently to prevent burning. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Build the flavor base: Stir in the thyme, oregano, cayenne pepper, and black pepper. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly, to toast the spices. This step enhances the aromatic complexity of the dish.
Simmer the jambalaya: Add the crushed tomatoes and chicken broth to the pot. Bring to a boil, then stir in the rice and the browned sausage. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
Add the shrimp: Stir in the shrimp and cook for 3-5 minutes, or until the shrimp is pink and cooked through. Avoid overcooking the shrimp, as it will become tough.
Garnish and serve: Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice adds a bright, contrasting flavor.
Cooking Tips for the Best Jambalaya:
- Don't overcrowd the pot: Ensure there's enough space for the ingredients to brown properly. Work in batches if necessary.
- Adjust the spice level: Start with less cayenne pepper and add more to taste, depending on your spice preference.
- Use quality ingredients: Fresh herbs and high-quality sausage will make a big difference in the flavor of your jambalaya.
- Don't lift the lid while simmering: This will allow the rice to cook evenly and absorb the liquid properly.
Variations:
- Vegetarian Jambalaya: Omit the sausage, chicken, and shrimp. Add your favorite vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or eggplant.
- Spicy Jambalaya: Increase the amount of cayenne pepper or add a pinch of red pepper flakes for extra heat.
- Seafood Jambalaya: Add other seafood like crawfish or mussels along with the shrimp.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
Calories: Approximately 450-500 Protein: 30-40g Fat: 20-25g Carbohydrates: 40-50g
This Shrimp, Chicken, and Sausage Jambalaya is a delightful blend of flavors and textures that is sure to satisfy any craving for a hearty and delicious meal. Enjoy the delightful taste of homemade cooking!