Simple Slow Cooker Chicken Jambalaya

Name: Simple Slow Cooker Chicken Jambalaya
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 4 h
Total time: 4 h 15 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound chicken breast, diced; 1 pound smoked sausage, sliced; 1 bell pepper, chopped; 1 onion, chopped; 2 celery stalks, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes; 2 cups chicken broth; 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning; 1 teaspoon thyme; 1 cup long-grain rice; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 green onions, sliced for garnish

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

A flavorful and hearty dish that combines chicken, sausage, and vegetables in a delicious blend of spices, all cooked slowly for an easy weeknight meal.

Created by

Abigail Foster

Last updated on 2025-12-28T20:43:09.643Z

This Simple Slow Cooker Chicken Jambalaya is a go-to recipe for busy families. With minimal prep and maximum flavor, it's sure to become a favorite in your home!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Rich, savory flavors that come together effortlessly
One-pot meal means easy cleanup
Perfectly spiced without being too hot
Versatile - customize with your favorite proteins and veggies

      

A Hearty Meal for Any Occasion

Chicken jambalaya is a classic dish that brings the warmth of Southern cooking to your table. It's perfect for family dinners, gatherings with friends, or even meal prep for the week ahead. The combination of chicken, sausage, and a medley of vegetables creates a satisfying meal that everyone will love. Plus, the slow cooker does all the work, allowing you to enjoy your time with loved ones while the flavors meld beautifully.

This dish is not only delicious but also incredibly filling, making it ideal for those chilly nights when you crave comfort food. Serve it with a side of crusty bread or a simple salad, and you have a complete meal that will leave everyone satisfied.

Customization Options

One of the best things about chicken jambalaya is its versatility. Feel free to swap out the proteins to suit your preferences—shrimp, crawfish, or even tofu can be excellent substitutes for chicken or sausage. You can also add a variety of vegetables such as zucchini, corn, or peas to enhance the dish’s nutrition and flavor profile.

If you're looking for a bit of heat, consider adding diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce. Alternatively, if you're feeding kids or those who prefer milder flavors, you can adjust the amount of Cajun seasoning. This flexibility makes it easy to tailor the dish to your family's tastes.

Tips for Perfect Jambalaya

To ensure your jambalaya comes out perfectly every time, be mindful of the rice. Long-grain rice works best as it cooks evenly and absorbs the flavors without becoming mushy. If you prefer a heartier texture, you might also experiment with brown rice; just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Another tip is to let the dish rest for a few minutes after cooking. This allows the flavors to deepen and the rice to absorb any remaining liquid. For an added touch, consider garnishing with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro just before serving to enhance the dish's presentation and flavor.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

1 pound chicken breast, diced
1 pound smoked sausage, sliced
1 bell pepper, chopped
1 onion, chopped
2 celery stalks, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
2 cups chicken broth
1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
1 teaspoon thyme
1 cup long-grain rice
Salt and pepper to taste
2 green onions, sliced for garnish

Feel free to add more vegetables or adjust the spices according to your preference!

Instructions

Prepare Ingredients

Gather all your ingredients and chop the vegetables as needed.

Combine in Slow Cooker

In a slow cooker, add the diced chicken, sliced sausage, chopped bell pepper, onion, celery, minced garlic, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, Cajun seasoning, thyme, and rice. Stir well to combine.

Cook

Cover and cook on low for 4 hours or until the chicken is cooked through and the rice is tender.

Serve

Once done, taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Serve hot, garnished with sliced green onions.

Enjoy your delicious jambalaya!

Nutritional Information

This simple slow cooker chicken jambalaya is not only tasty but also packed with nutrients. Chicken provides a good source of lean protein, while the assortment of vegetables contributes vitamins and minerals essential for a balanced diet. Whole grains from the rice offer fiber, promoting digestive health.

By using lean sausage and plenty of vegetables, you can create a dish that is satisfying without being overly indulgent. If you're looking to lighten it up further, consider using skinless chicken breasts and reducing the amount of sausage, which can still provide that signature smoky flavor.

Storage and Leftovers

Leftover jambalaya can be a delightful treat! Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors often deepen as they sit, making leftovers taste even better. When reheating, you may want to add a splash of chicken broth to bring back some moisture.

For longer storage, consider freezing individual portions. Jambalaya freezes well and can be a lifesaver on busy days when you need a quick meal. Just make sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers, and label them with the date for future reference.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the ingredients the night before and store them in the fridge. Just combine them in the slow cooker in the morning.

→ Can I freeze leftovers?

Absolutely! Just store in an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat in the microwave or on the stove.

→ What can I substitute for chicken broth?

You can use vegetable broth or even water if you prefer a lighter flavor.

→ Is this dish spicy?

The dish is mildly spiced due to the Cajun seasoning. You can adjust the heat by adding more or using a milder seasoning.