If you’ve ever dreamed of a dish that combines bold spices, tender chicken, flavorful sausage, and creamy textures all in one pot, then this Creamy Cajun Chicken and Sausage Jambalaya Recipe is about to become your new favorite comfort meal. Bursting with the vibrant colors and rich tastes of Cajun cooking, this recipe offers a perfect balance of smoky Andouille sausage, perfectly seasoned chicken, and a luscious rice base infused with a creamy blend of spices and tomatoes. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or hosting friends, the ease and depth of flavor in this Creamy Cajun Chicken and Sausage Jambalaya Recipe will have everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe relies on simple yet essential ingredients that come together to create an unforgettable dish. Each component plays its part: the chicken adds juicy protein, Andouille sausage delivers a smoky punch, and fresh vegetables bring sweetness and crunch, all enhanced by rich spices and a creamy tomato base that ties everything perfectly.
- Boneless skinless chicken breast (1½ pounds): Cut into bite-sized pieces for even cooking and maximum tenderness.
- Andouille sausage (1 pound): Sliced into rounds, adds a smoky, spicy depth crucial for authentic Cajun flavor.
- Onion (½, diced): Offers a sweet and savory foundation when sautéed with other vegetables.
- Celery (2 ribs, diced): Brings a subtle crunch and fresh aroma to the dish.
- Bell peppers (2, any color, diced): Provide vibrant color and a mild sweetness that balances the spice.
- Garlic (2 cloves, minced): A must-have for that fragrant, savory punch.
- Cajun seasoning (2 tablespoons, divided): The star spice blend that gives the dish its signature kick.
- Olive oil (3 tablespoons, divided): For sautéing and building layers of flavor.
- Crushed tomatoes (14.5 ounces, 1 can): Adds a rich, tangy base that makes the dish creamy and luscious.
- Dried oregano (1 teaspoon): Infuses a fragrant herbal undertone that complements the Cajun seasoning.
- Chicken broth (2 cups): Essential for cooking the rice and blending flavors into a hearty sauce.
- White rice (1 cup): Absorbs all the delicious liquids and spices, finishing the dish with the perfect texture.
How to Make Creamy Cajun Chicken and Sausage Jambalaya Recipe
Step 1: Season Chicken
Start by tossing your bite-sized chicken pieces with 1 tablespoon of Cajun seasoning. This step infuses the chicken with a lively, spicy flavor right from the start, creating a rich base that sets the tone for the rest of the dish.
Step 2: Brown Chicken
Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a heavy pot over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken and cook until its edges are lightly browned and cooked through on the outside. This develops an appealing texture and locks in juices. Once browned, remove the chicken from the pot and set it aside to prevent overcooking.
Step 3: Cook Sausage
Using the same pot, add the sliced Andouille sausage. Cook it until the edges crisp slightly, releasing its smoky, savory aroma and enhancing the depth of flavor. This step is key for that authentic Cajun taste that complements the chicken perfectly.
Step 4: Sauté Vegetables
Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil, then toss in diced onion, celery, and bell peppers. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the vegetables soften and release their natural sweetness, creating a fragrant bed of flavor for the next steps.
Step 5: Add Garlic and Spices
Stir in minced garlic, the remaining Cajun seasoning, and dried oregano. Cook everything together for about 1 minute. This allows the spices and herbs to bloom beautifully, turning your kitchen into a Cajun haven and ensuring every bite is packed with flavor.
Step 6: Add Liquids and Rice
Pour in crushed tomatoes, chicken broth, and white rice. Stir well to combine all ingredients evenly. The tomatoes and broth create a flavorful, creamy cooking liquid, while the rice will soak up all this goodness as it cooks.
Step 7: Combine Meats
Return the browned chicken and cooked sausage back into the pot, stirring everything together so the proteins mingle perfectly with the vegetables and rice.
Step 8: Simmer and Cook
Bring the pot to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover. Let everything simmer for 25 minutes. This slow cooking softens the rice and allows it to absorb all those wonderful flavors, resulting in a rich, creamy jambalaya that’s both hearty and irresistible.
How to Serve Creamy Cajun Chicken and Sausage Jambalaya Recipe
Garnishes
For the perfect finishing touch, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley or green onions on top. These garnishes add a burst of color and a fresh, vibrant note that cuts through the creamy richness beautifully.
Side Dishes
This jambalaya shines on its own, but if you want to round out your meal, serve it alongside a crisp green salad or warm crusty bread. The salad provides a refreshing contrast, while the bread is perfect for mopping up every last bit of that delicious sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve your Creamy Cajun Chicken and Sausage Jambalaya Recipe in rustic bowls straight from the pot for a cozy family feel, or present it on a large platter with a sprinkling of extra Cajun seasoning and lemon wedges for guests to customize their spice level. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s as beautiful as it is flavorful!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This Creamy Cajun Chicken and Sausage Jambalaya Recipe keeps wonderfully in the fridge for up to 3 days. Store it in an airtight container to maintain freshness and prevent any flavors from fading.
Freezing
You can freeze leftovers in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Just be sure to cool the jambalaya completely before freezing to preserve its creamy texture and robust flavor.
Reheating
When you’re ready to enjoy the leftovers, reheat gently on the stove over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of chicken broth or water if the jambalaya seems too thick to bring back its creamy consistency.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of sausage for this recipe?
Absolutely! While Andouille sausage offers the classic Cajun flavor, smoked sausage or kielbasa can be great alternatives. Just choose a sausage with a bit of spice to keep that authentic taste.
Is this recipe very spicy?
The heat level is moderate thanks to the Cajun seasoning, but you can easily adjust it by using less seasoning or adding a dash of hot sauce if you like more kick.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! The ingredients used are naturally gluten-free, but be sure to check your Cajun seasoning and sausage labels to avoid any hidden gluten.
What type of rice works best in this jambalaya?
White long-grain rice is ideal because it absorbs flavors well and cooks up fluffy. Avoid quick-cooking or pre-cooked rice as it may not hold up well during simmering.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
While this recipe is centered around chicken and sausage, you can skip the meat and add more vegetables or plant-based sausages with Cajun seasoning for a vegetarian twist.
Final Thoughts
If you’re craving a dish that’s hearty, flavorful, and packed with that unmistakable Cajun flair, you’ll absolutely want to dive into this Creamy Cajun Chicken and Sausage Jambalaya Recipe. It’s one of those meals that warms the soul and makes any day feel special. Trust me, once you make it, it will quickly become a beloved staple in your recipe collection.
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Creamy Cajun Chicken and Sausage Jambalaya Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Cajun
Description
This Creamy Cajun Chicken and Sausage Jambalaya is a hearty and flavorful one-pot meal combining tender chicken, smoky Andouille sausage, vibrant vegetables, and perfectly cooked rice in a rich, spiced tomato broth. Inspired by classic Cajun cuisine, this dish offers a comforting blend of spices and textures, all ready in just 40 minutes.
Ingredients
Meat
- 1½ pounds boneless skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-size pieces
- 1 pound Andouille sausage, sliced into rounds
Vegetables
- ½ onion, diced
- 2 ribs celery, diced
- 2 bell peppers (any color), diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Spices and Seasonings
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning (divided)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
Other Ingredients
- 3 tablespoons olive oil (divided)
- 14.5 ounces crushed tomatoes (1 can)
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup white rice
Instructions
- Season Chicken: Season the bite-sized chicken pieces with 1 tablespoon of Cajun seasoning to infuse them with a spicy and flavorful base.
- Brown Chicken: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a heavy pot over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken pieces and brown them until cooked on the outside. Remove the chicken and set aside.
- Cook Sausage: In the same pot, add the sliced Andouille sausage and cook until lightly crisped to develop a smoky flavor, about 3-4 minutes.
- Sauté Vegetables: Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil to the pot. Sauté the diced onion, celery, and bell peppers until they become soft and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
- Add Garlic and Spices: Stir in the minced garlic, remaining 1 tablespoon of Cajun seasoning, and dried oregano. Cook for 1 minute to release the aromas of the herbs and spices.
- Add Liquids and Rice: Pour in the crushed tomatoes, chicken broth, and white rice. Stir well to combine all the ingredients evenly.
- Combine Meats: Return the browned chicken pieces and cooked sausage to the pot, stirring them evenly within the mixture.
- Simmer and Cook: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and simmer for 25 minutes, or until the rice is tender and has absorbed the flavorful broth.
Notes
- Use Andouille sausage for authentic smoky Cajun flavor; substitute with smoked sausage if unavailable.
- Adjust Cajun seasoning amount to your preferred spice level.
- For a creamier texture, stir in a splash of heavy cream or half-and-half at the end of cooking.
- Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheat with a splash of broth to retain moisture.
- Make sure to keep heat low during simmering to prevent rice from burning or sticking to the pot.
