One-Pan Jambalaya is a hearty and satisfying dish that brings together the bold, smoky flavors of Cajun cuisine in a simple and convenient one-pan meal. With tender chicken, savory sausage, and juicy shrimp all mingling in a flavorful broth, this dish delivers comfort and spice in every bite.
Perfect for busy weeknights or a casual gathering, One-Pan Jambalaya offers a wonderful balance of flavors and textures. The seasoned rice soaks up all the delicious juices, making each spoonful irresistible. Whether you’re a fan of spicy food or just looking for an easy, delicious dinner, this dish won’t disappoint!
Full recipe:
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound chicken breast, diced
- 1/2 pound smoked sausage, sliced
- 1 onion, diced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes
- 1 cup long grain white rice
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/2 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Directions:
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Heat olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add chicken and sausage, cooking until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
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Add the onion, bell pepper, and garlic to the skillet, cooking until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
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Stir in diced tomatoes, rice, chicken broth, Cajun seasoning, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer, cover, and cook for 20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.
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Add shrimp to the skillet, cover, and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until shrimp are pink and cooked through.
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Remove from heat and garnish with chopped parsley. Serve hot.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 30 minutes | Total Time: 40 minutes
Kcal: 520 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
The History of Jambalaya
Jambalaya is often associated with Louisiana and has deep roots in Creole and Cajun cultures. It was created as a way to use up leftovers and incorporate a variety of ingredients into one dish, reflecting the diverse influences of French, Spanish, African, and Native American cuisines. There are two primary variations of jambalaya: Creole and Cajun. Creole jambalaya, also known as “red jambalaya,” is made with tomatoes, while Cajun jambalaya, or “brown jambalaya,” is prepared without tomatoes and tends to have a more rustic, smoky flavor.
The dish was born from the blending of ingredients available in the region, including rice, which was introduced by the Spanish settlers, and meats like chicken, sausage, and seafood. Over time, jambalaya has evolved and found its way into the kitchens of home cooks and professional chefs alike, becoming a beloved dish for family gatherings, special occasions, and weeknight dinners.
A Simple and Delicious One-Pan Meal
What makes this One-Pan Jambalaya recipe stand out is its simplicity. Traditional jambalaya recipes often require multiple pots and pans to cook the various ingredients separately, which can be time-consuming and require a lot of clean-up. However, this one-pan version combines all the elements of the dish in one pan, reducing prep and cook time, while still delivering on the flavor.
The beauty of this dish is that you get all the smoky, spicy goodness of Cajun cooking with minimal effort. The combination of chicken, smoked sausage, and shrimp brings out a variety of flavors and textures, making each bite a satisfying experience. The seasoned rice, cooked in a rich broth, absorbs all the savory flavors, creating a comforting and hearty meal.
The Key Ingredients of One-Pan Jambalaya
At the heart of any good jambalaya is the combination of meat, seafood, vegetables, and rice. In this recipe, chicken, sausage, and shrimp are the main proteins, each adding their own distinct flavors to the dish. The chicken provides a tender, juicy base, while the smoked sausage adds a smoky richness that complements the other ingredients perfectly. Shrimp brings a touch of sweetness and brininess, creating a balanced and well-rounded dish.
In addition to the proteins, the vegetables in this jambalaya are essential for adding depth and freshness to the dish. The onions, bell peppers, and garlic provide a savory foundation, while the Cajun seasoning and thyme infuse the rice with bold, aromatic flavors. Diced tomatoes bring a touch of acidity and color to the dish, balancing the richness of the meats and creating a vibrant, flavorful base.
The rice is the key to making this a complete one-pan meal. The long-grain white rice soaks up all the savory liquid from the broth and seasonings, ensuring that every bite is packed with flavor. The rice also acts as a natural thickener for the broth, creating a creamy, satisfying texture that ties the whole dish together.
Why You’ll Love This One-Pan Jambalaya
There are many reasons to love this One-Pan Jambalaya recipe. First and foremost, it is incredibly easy to make. With just a few simple ingredients and one pan, you can create a meal that is both delicious and satisfying. Whether you are cooking for a family dinner, hosting a casual gathering, or preparing a weeknight meal, this dish is guaranteed to impress.
Another great aspect of this recipe is its versatility. While this version uses chicken, sausage, and shrimp, you can easily customize the dish to suit your preferences or dietary restrictions. For example, you could swap out the shrimp for another type of seafood, or use turkey sausage in place of pork sausage for a lighter option. You can also adjust the level of spiciness by adding more or less Cajun seasoning, depending on your taste.
One-Pan Jambalaya is also a crowd-pleaser. With its bold flavors, hearty ingredients, and satisfying textures, it is sure to be a hit at any gathering. The best part is that you don’t have to spend hours in the kitchen to make it. It’s a meal that is simple to prepare yet delivers a restaurant-quality taste.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
One-Pan Jambalaya is a complete meal on its own, but you can also pair it with side dishes to elevate the dining experience. A simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette is a great way to balance out the richness of the jambalaya. You can also serve it with a side of cornbread or crusty bread to soak up the flavorful broth.
For a refreshing contrast to the spicy jambalaya, a light cucumber or tomato salad would work well. You could also serve it with some grilled vegetables or steamed asparagus for an added touch of color and flavor. If you enjoy a bit of heat, consider pairing it with a spicy hot sauce on the side for an extra kick.
Conclusion: A Southern Classic in a Modern Twist
In conclusion, One-Pan Jambalaya is a fantastic dish that brings the bold flavors of Southern cooking into your home kitchen with ease. The combination of chicken, sausage, shrimp, and rice, all cooked together in one pan, creates a delicious and comforting meal that’s perfect for any occasion. The recipe is simple, customizable, and packed with flavor, making it a go-to choice for busy weeknights or when you’re hosting a casual gathering with friends and family.
This dish is a true representation of the vibrant and diverse flavors of Louisiana, offering a hearty, satisfying meal that will leave you coming back for more. Whether you are new to Cajun cooking or a seasoned pro, this One-Pan Jambalaya is sure to become a staple in your recipe collection.