Easy Jambalaya Recipe

Ingredients

2 tbsp. olive oil, divided

3 links chicken andouille sausage

1 1/4 cups diced green pepper

1 1/4 cups diced celery

1 1/4 cups diced onion

2 large cloves garlic, minced

1 tsp kosher salt, divided

1 tbsp tomato paste

14 oz can canned tomatoes

1 3/4 cup chicken stock

2 tsp smoked paprika

1 tsp oregano

2 bay leaves

1 tsp dried thyme

2 tsp garlic powder

2 tsp onion powder

1 cup quick-cooking brown rice or white rice

1/2 lb peeled and deveinved shrimp. (Any medium or large size works great)

1 1/2 cups shredded chicken

green onion for garnish

Instructions

Step 1:

Heat a large skillet to a medium-high heat.

Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil.

Add sausage and cook until brown on both sides.

Step 2:

Drizzle in remaining tablespoon of olive oil along with green pepper, celelry, onion, garlic, and 1/2 teaspoon salt.

Reduce the heat to medium and saute until veggies are slightly softened, about 2-3 minutes.

Step 3:

Add in tomato paste.

Stir and cooke for 1 minute.

Pour in canned tomatoes, chicken stock, remaining salt, smoked paprika, oregano, bay leaves, thyme, garlic powder, black pepper, onion powder, adn rice.

Stir to combine everything.

Bring the mixture until to a boil and then reduce to a simmer.

Cover and cook until rice is cooked all the way through, 15-20 minutes.

Step 4:

Season shrimp with salt and pepper.

When the rice is done, add the chicken and shrimp.

Stir and then cover.

Cook another 4-5 minutes until shrimp is cooked through and pink.

Step 5:

Season dish with salt and pepper.

Garnish with sliced green onion.

Nutrition Information:

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use regular pork sausage instead of chicken andouille sausage?

Yes, you can substitute chicken andouille sausage with any other type of sausage you prefer.

Traditional pork andouille sausage is commonly used in jambalaya recipes.

Is it necessary to use quick-cooking rice, or can I use regular rice?

Quick-cooking rice is preferred for this recipe because it cooks faster and helps streamline the cooking process.

However, you can use regular rice, but you may need to adjust the cooking time and add more liquid as needed.

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned tomatoes?

Yes, you can use fresh tomatoes instead of canned tomatoes.

Simply dice fresh tomatoes and use them in place of the canned tomatoes.

Keep in mind that the cooking time may vary slightly depending on the moisture content of the fresh tomatoes.

How can I adjust the spice level of the jambalaya?

To adjust the spice level, you can increase or decrease the amount of hot sauce or Cajun seasoning used in the recipe.

You can also add additional spices like cayenne pepper or chili powder for extra heat, or reduce the amount of spicy ingredients like paprika or jalapeños.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the jambalaya ahead of time and reheat it when ready to serve.

Store the cooked jambalaya in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Reheat it on the stove or in the microwave until heated through before serving.

What can I use instead of chicken stock if I don’t have any on hand?

If you don’t have chicken stock, you can use vegetable stock or water as a substitute.

However, keep in mind that using water may result in a slightly less flavorful jambalaya.

Can I use other types of meat instead of chicken and shrimp?

Yes, you can customize this recipe by using different types of meat such as beef, pork, or sausage.

Feel free to experiment with your favorite proteins to create your own unique version of jambalaya.

How do I know when the shrimp is cooked through?

Shrimp is cooked through when it turns opaque and pink in color.

Be careful not to overcook the shrimp, as it can become tough and rubbery.

Cooking shrimp for 4-5 minutes after adding it to the jambalaya should be sufficient.

Can I freeze leftover jambalaya?

Yes, you can freeze leftover jambalaya for later use.

Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to airtight containers or freezer bags.

Freeze for up to 3 months.

Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Is jambalaya a spicy dish?

Jambalaya can vary in spiciness depending on the amount of spices and hot sauce used in the recipe.

This recipe includes smoked paprika and a small amount of hot sauce, but you can adjust the spice level to suit your taste preferences.