Crockpot Jambalaya is a favorite for many families, combining the rich flavors of the South into a single pot. This dish is not only easy to prepare but also allows you to enjoy the enticing aroma of spices and hearty ingredients simmering throughout the day. Perfect for busy weeknights or weekend gatherings, this jambalaya delivers a warm and satisfying meal that everyone will love.
Recipe Information
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours (low) or 3 hours (high)
- Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes (low) or 3 hours 15 minutes (high)
- Servings: 6-8
- Difficulty Level: Easy
Nutrition Information
- Calories per serving: Approximately 400
- Protein: 28 grams
- Carbohydrates: 38 grams
- Fat: 16 grams
- Fiber: 2 grams
- Sugar: 3 grams
- Sodium: 850 mg
Why Make This Crockpot Jambalaya
Crockpot Jambalaya stands out for its depth of flavors and ease of cooking. The slow-cooking process allows the spices to blend beautifully with the sausage, chicken, and shrimp, creating a delightful one-pot meal. Additionally, it’s a versatile recipe that can be easily adjusted to cater to various dietary preferences or to include seasonal ingredients. Whether you’re serving it for a casual family dinner or a festive gathering, this jambalaya is sure to impress with its colorful appearance and robust taste.
How to Make Crockpot Jambalaya
Ingredients:
- 1 pound chicken breast, diced
- 1 pound smoked sausage, sliced
- 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 onion, diced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 1 celery stalk, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 2 cups cooked rice
- 2 teaspoons Cajun seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Green onions for garnish
Directions:
### Step 1: Preparation
In the crockpot, combine the diced chicken, sliced sausage, diced onion, green bell pepper, diced celery, and minced garlic.
### Step 2: Mixing
Add the undrained diced tomatoes, chicken broth, Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir well to ensure all the ingredients are combined and seasoned nicely.
### Step 3: Cooking
Cover the crockpot with a lid and select the cooking time. Cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, allowing the flavors to meld and the ingredients to become tender.
### Step 4: Finishing
About 30 minutes before serving, gently stir in the peeled and deveined shrimp along with the cooked rice. Once the shrimp are pink and the rice is heated through, taste and adjust the seasonings if necessary. Serve hot, garnished with chopped green onions for an extra pop of flavor and color.
How to Serve Crockpot Jambalaya
Serve your delicious Crockpot Jambalaya hot, straight from the pot! It makes for a fantastic main dish. Pair it with a fresh green salad or some crusty bread to soak up the flavorful broth. For an authentic touch, consider serving it with Tabasco sauce for those who like a bit of heat, or a side of cornbread for a true Southern experience.
How to Store Crockpot Jambalaya
If you have leftovers (which is often the case), let the jambalaya cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. You can store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, portion out the jambalaya into freezer-safe bags and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stove or in the microwave until warmed through.
Expert Tips for Perfect Crockpot Jambalaya
- Feel free to substitute the proteins; use turkey sausage or even tofu for a vegetarian twist!
- For an extra kick, add some chopped jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
- Don’t skip the step of cooking the rice beforehand; it prevents the jambalaya from becoming overly mushy.
- Adjust the Cajun seasoning based on your spice preference. More seasoning can greatly enhance the flavor.
Delicious Variations
- Seafood Jambalaya: Swap out the chicken for additional shrimp, scallops, or crab.
- Vegetable Jambalaya: Going meatless? Load in extra vegetables like zucchini, carrots, and mushrooms for a hearty veggie dish.
- Spicy Jambalaya: Incorporate some diced chilies or hot sauce into the mix for an added spicy zing.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use frozen shrimp? Yes! If using frozen shrimp, just add them directly to the pot when you’re ready to finish the dish.
- Can I make this ahead of time? Absolutely! You can prepare the ingredients in advance and store them in the fridge. Just combine and cook them in the crockpot when you’re ready to eat.
- Is it okay to use brown rice instead? Yes, but brown rice will require a longer cooking time, so consider cooking it separately.
- What’s a good side to serve with jambalaya? A simple green salad or cornbread pairs well with the hearty jambalaya.
- Can I double the recipe? Yes! Just make sure your crockpot is large enough to accommodate the additional ingredients.
Conclusion
Crockpot Jambalaya is an easy, flavorful dish that the whole family will enjoy. With minimal prep and maximum flavor, it’s perfect for busy days when you want to come home to a warm, hearty meal. With its endless variations and comforting appeal, this recipe is bound to become a staple in your household. Give it a try and see just how delicious homemade jambalaya can be!
