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Melany

Hearty Slow Cooker Jambalaya: A Taste of the South

Dive into the bold, hearty flavors of Louisiana with Hearty Slow Cooker Jambalaya! Packed with tender chicken, smoky andouille sausage, juicy shrimp, and perfectly spiced vegetables, this one-pot wonder will warm your soul and delight your taste buds. Effortlessly prepared in a slow cooker, it’s the ultimate comfort food for any occasion.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 4 hours
Total Time 4 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Southern
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Jambalaya
  • 1 pound chicken thighs cubed
  • 12 ounces andouille sausage sliced
  • 1 can 28 ounces diced tomatoes
  • 2 celery ribs diced
  • 1 green bell pepper diced
  • 1 red bell pepper diced
  • 1 yellow onion diced
  • 4 garlic cloves finely chopped
  • 1 ½ cups low-sodium chicken broth
  • 3 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 2 teaspoons dried oregano
  • 2 teaspoons Cajun seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper optional
  • ½ teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 bay leaf
  • 1 pound shrimp peeled and deveined (frozen or fresh)
  • 4 cups cooked rice
  • Fresh parsley and green onions for garnish

Method
 

 Prepare the Ingredients
  1. Chop the vegetables, cube the chicken, and slice the sausage. If using frozen shrimp, thaw them beforehand.
2. Assemble the Jambalaya
    In your slow cooker, layer the following ingredients:
    1. Chicken thighs
    2. Sliced andouille sausage
    3. Celery, bell peppers, onion, and garlic
    4. Add the diced tomatoes, chicken broth, and tomato paste.
    5. Sprinkle with oregano, Cajun seasoning, paprika, cayenne (if using), thyme, and the bay leaf.
    6. Gently stir to combine all ingredients.
    3. Slow Cook the Jambalaya
    1. Cover and cook on LOW for 3 to 3½ hours, or until the chicken is tender and the flavors are well blended.
    4. Add the Shrimp
    1. Stir in the shrimp, ensuring they are evenly distributed. Cover and cook for an additional 20–30 minutes, or until the shrimp are pink and cooked through.
    5. Add the Rice and Serve
    1. Stir in the cooked rice just before serving to prevent it from getting mushy.
    2. Remove the bay leaf and garnish with fresh parsley and sliced green onions.
    3. Serve hot and enjoy!

    Notes

    • Adjust the Spice: Control the heat by adding more or less cayenne pepper.
    • Rice Options: Use long-grain white rice or brown rice for the best texture. For a low-carb option, substitute with cauliflower rice.
    • Quality Sausage: Andouille sausage adds authenticity, but kielbasa or chorizo are great alternatives.

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