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Instructions for Making Chicken, Shrimp, and Sausage Jambalaya
1. Brown the Sausage and Chicken
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat. Add the Andouille sausage and cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until browned and slightly crispy. Remove the sausage from the pot and set it aside. In the same pot, add the chicken and cook until browned on all sides, about 7-10 minutes. Once the chicken is cooked through, remove it from the pot and set it aside with the sausage.
2. Sauté the Vegetables
In the same pot, add another tablespoon of olive oil. Add the onion, bell pepper, and celery to the pot, and sauté for about 5 minutes, until softened. Add the garlic and sauté for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Add the Rice and Seasonings
Add the rice to the pot, stirring to coat the rice with the oil and vegetables. This will help the rice absorb all the flavors. Then, add the Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, thyme, cayenne pepper (if using), and salt and pepper to taste. Stir well to evenly distribute the spices throughout the rice.
4. Combine the Ingredients
Return the browned chicken and sausage to the pot. Add the chicken broth, diced tomatoes, and tomato paste, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat.
5. Simmer the Jambalaya
Cover the pot with a tight-fitting lid, reduce the heat to low, and let the jambalaya simmer for 20-25 minutes. The rice should absorb most of the liquid and become tender. Check the rice occasionally to make sure it doesn’t stick to the bottom of the pot. Add a little more chicken broth if necessary.
6. Add the Shrimp
Once the rice is cooked, stir in the shrimp and cover the pot again. Let the shrimp cook for about 5 minutes, or until they are pink and opaque.
7. Finish and Serve
Once the shrimp are fully cooked, taste the jambalaya and adjust the seasonings as needed. If you’d like, stir in a tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce for an added depth of flavor. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and green onions before serving.
Tips for the Best Jambalaya
- Use a Heavy Pot: A Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot works best for jambalaya because it distributes heat evenly and helps prevent the rice from burning or sticking.
- Don’t Skip the Browning: Browning the sausage and chicken adds a ton of flavor to the dish. Don’t rush this step, as it contributes to the depth of flavor in the jambalaya.
- Spice to Your Taste: The beauty of jambalaya lies in its versatility. You can adjust the level of heat by adding more or less cayenne pepper or using a milder sausage.
- Let It Rest: After cooking, let the jambalaya sit for about 10 minutes before serving. This helps the flavors meld together and gives the rice a chance to firm up a bit.
- Customize with Other Meats: While this recipe uses chicken, shrimp, and sausage, feel free to add other meats like crawfish, turkey, or ham depending on your preferences.
Why You’ll Love This Chicken, Shrimp, and Sausage Jambalaya
This Chicken, Shrimp, and Sausage Jambalaya is an absolute flavor bomb! It’s a complete meal in one pot, packed with hearty rice, savory proteins, and the rich, smoky flavors of Cajun cooking. Each bite is a combination of tender shrimp, juicy chicken, and perfectly cooked sausage, all enveloped in a flavorful, slightly spicy broth.
Whether you’re making it for a cozy family dinner or serving it at a large gathering, this jambalaya will quickly become a favorite on your dinner table. It’s comfort food with a kick, and it’s sure to please everyone from spice lovers to those who prefer a milder flavor.
Serving Suggestions
- With Crusty Bread: Serve your jambalaya with a side of crusty French bread or cornbread to soak up the flavorful juices.
- With a Salad: A light green salad with a tangy vinaigrette pairs perfectly with the richness of the jambalaya.
- Top with Hot Sauce: For extra heat, drizzle some Louisiana hot sauce over the top of your jambalaya right before serving.
Final Thoughts
Chicken, Shrimp, and Sausage Jambalaya is a perfect way to enjoy the bold and vibrant flavors of Louisiana in the comfort of your home. It’s a crowd-pleasing dish that’s easy to make, customizable, and guaranteed to deliver a satisfying meal. So gather your ingredients, follow this simple recipe, and let the flavors of the Bayou take you on a culinary journey that will leave everyone at the table asking for more!
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