There’s nothing quite like coming home to the enticing scent of savory Cajun spices and tender chicken simmering away in the slow cooker. When I first tossed together the ingredients for this Slow Cooker Chicken Jambalaya, I wasn’t sure what to expect—but the results blew me away. The combination of juicy chicken, smoky andouille sausage, and colorful bell peppers creates a hearty dish that feels like a warm embrace on a cool evening.
After a busy day, the last thing I want is to fuss over dinner. Enter the slow cooker, my trusty kitchen companion that not only simplifies my cooking but also fills the house with mouthwatering aromas. One bite of this jambalaya, bursting with layers of flavor and served over fluffy rice, will transport you straight to the heart of Louisiana. If you’re ready to rekindle your love for homemade meals, this recipe is the perfect way to do it!
Why is Slow Cooker Chicken Jambalaya a Must-Try?
Flavor Explosion: The mix of chicken, andouille sausage, and vibrant veggies creates a rich symphony of tastes that’s absolutely irresistible.
Effortless Cooking: Simply toss everything into the slow cooker and let it work its magic. No need for constant monitoring or complicated techniques!
Family-Friendly: This dish is a hit with kids and adults alike, making it a perfect choice for family dinners that are both satisfying and fun.
Meal Prep Hero: Make a big batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week, transforming them into endless meal possibilities.
Comfort in Every Bite: With its warm, hearty consistency, it’s like a cozy hug you can savor on chilly nights! If you love the idea of slow-cooked wonders, don’t miss out on these other incredible slow cooker recipes.
Slow Cooker Chicken Jambalaya Ingredients
For the Chicken & Sausage
• 1 ½ lbs chicken breasts – use boneless and skinless for easier shredding.
• 1 lb andouille sausage links – the smoky flavor enhances the dish; try a turkey version for a lighter option.
For the Vegetables
• ½ onion – diced onion adds depth; yellow or white works great!
• 1 red bell pepper – brings sweetness and color; feel free to substitute with yellow or orange bell pepper.
• 1 green bell pepper – adds a slightly bitter contrast, which balances the dish perfectly.
• 2 stalks celery – this aromatic veggie lends a delightful crunch.
• 2 tsp minced garlic – fresh garlic elevates the overall flavor; roasted garlic can be an excellent substitute.
For the Saucy Base
• 1 can crushed tomatoes (14.5 oz) – the base of your sauce; diced tomatoes can also add nice texture.
• 2 tsp dried oregano – a must-have herb that complements Cajun seasoning beautifully.
• 1 cup chicken broth – ensures a rich broth; vegetable broth is a solid option for a vegetarian twist.
For Serving
• 3 cups cooked rice – the fluffy companion to your jambalaya; brown rice can offer a nutty flavor and is a healthier choice.
This Slow Cooker Chicken Jambalaya is a flavorful, easy-going dish that will surely excite your palate—an invitation to savor homemade goodness without the fuss.
How to Make Slow Cooker Chicken Jambalaya
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Prepare the Chicken: Begin by dicing the chicken breasts into 1-inch pieces. This allows them to cook evenly and absorb all those wonderful flavors from the spices and vegetables.
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Slice the Sausage: Take the andouille sausage links and slice them into ½-inch pieces. This smoky sausage adds depth and richness to your jambalaya that you’ll absolutely love.
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Combine in Slow Cooker: In your trusty slow cooker, toss in the chicken, sliced sausage, cajun seasoning, diced onion, chopped bell peppers, celery, and minced garlic. This colorful mix already looks delightful!
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Add the Saucy Base: Pour the crushed tomatoes, dried oregano, and chicken broth into the slow cooker. These ingredients bring everything together, creating a deliciously cohesive sauce.
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Mix and Cook: Gently stir to combine all the ingredients, then cover the slow cooker. Set it on low for about 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours. Let those flavors meld and develop!
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Check for Doneness: When the cooking time is up, check that the chicken is fully cooked, and the vegetables are tender. This is the time to get excited!
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Serve it Up: Once everything is cooked to perfection, serve the jambalaya over warm, fluffy rice. Enjoy the comforting aroma as you dig in!
Optional: Garnish with fresh parsley for an added burst of color and freshness.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Slow Cooker Chicken Jambalaya Variations
Feel free to make this recipe your own by incorporating these delightful twists and turns!
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Spicy Kick: Add chopped jalapeños or cayenne pepper for an extra dose of heat that’ll awaken your taste buds.
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Vegetarian Delight: Substitute chicken and sausage with chickpeas and portobello mushrooms, enhancing savory richness while keeping it plant-based.
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Healthy Swap: Use brown rice instead of white to give your dish a nutty flavor and boost its nutritional value.
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Herb Infusion: Experiment with fresh herbs like thyme or parsley; they not only elevate the flavor but also add a luscious touch.
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Smoky Flavor Boost: Incorporate smoked paprika; it pairs beautifully with the Cajun spices and brings a new level of depth to your jambalaya.
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Zesty Citrus: Squeeze in fresh lemon or lime juice before serving for a bright and refreshing zest that balances out the flavors.
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Cheesy Goodness: Stir in some shredded cheese like cheddar or pepper jack just before serving for a melty, indulgent twist that’s hard to resist.
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Nutty Texture: Toss in some toasted almonds or cashews for a delightful crunch that will surprise your palate!
What to Serve with Chicken and Andouille Sausage Rice?
As the aroma of this hearty dish fills your home, you might wonder what to complement it with for a well-rounded meal.
- Crispy Garlic Bread: This crunchy delight absorbs sauce beautifully, offering a perfect vessel for those rich flavors.
- Antipasto Salad: A colorful, vibrant mix of olives, cheeses, and marinated veggies adds a fresh crunch that balances the dish perfectly.
- Corn on the Cob: Sweet, juicy corn is a classic side that adds brightness, contrasting the rich spices in your rice dish.
- Coleslaw: Creamy slaw with a hint of tang provides refreshing relief and adds a delightful texture that complements the heartiness.
- Sweet Tea: A glass of this refreshing drink with lemon creates a lovely contrast, balancing the spices and enhancing the overall meal.
- Peach Cobbler: End on a sweet note with this warm dessert; its buttery crust and juicy peaches play well against the heat of the meal.
- Roasted Brussels Sprouts: These caramelized gems add a crispy texture and earthy flavor, making your meal more dynamic and visually appealing.
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Smooth and creamy, they soak up the tomato base beautifully, providing a comfort element to your dinner spread.
- Fruit Salad: A fresh mix of seasonal fruits keeps things light, adding sweetness and a burst of color to your plate.
Expert Tips for Slow Cooker Chicken Jambalaya
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Prep Ahead: Consider chopping your vegetables a day before. You can even marinate the chicken in cajun seasoning overnight for deeper flavor.
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Avoid Soggy Rice: Always add the cooked rice just before serving instead of during the cooking process to keep it fluffy and prevent it from absorbing too much moisture.
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Flavor Variations: Don’t hesitate to swap in different proteins or add shrimp for a seafood twist. Just adjust cooking times appropriately for optimal tenderness.
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Stock Quality Matters: Use high-quality chicken broth for a more flavorful base. Homemade broth can make a big difference in crafting your perfect jambalaya!
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Storage Tips: This delicious dish can be refrigerated for up to three days and frozen for later enjoyment. Just reheat and savor the results!
Storage Tips for Slow Cooker Chicken Jambalaya
Fridge: Store leftover jambalaya in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Make sure it’s fully cooled before placing it in the fridge to maintain quality.
Freezer: Freeze the jambalaya in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Portion it out for easy reheating on busy nights!
Reheating: When ready to enjoy again, thaw in the fridge overnight. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of chicken broth to revive its flavors.
Avoid Overcrowding: If you’re storing a large batch, leave some space in the container. This helps maintain texture and flavor for your delightful slow cooker chicken jambalaya!
Make Ahead Options
These Slow Cooker Chicken Jambalaya are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can dice the chicken and slice the andouille sausage up to 24 hours in advance, refrigerating them separately to maintain their freshness. Chopping the vegetables (onion, bell peppers, celery, and garlic) can also be done ahead of time—just store them in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the fridge. When you’re ready to cook, simply combine all the prepped ingredients in the slow cooker with the crushed tomatoes, dried oregano, and chicken broth, and let it work its magic. This way, you’ll have delicious, home-cooked flavors waiting for you with minimal effort!
Slow Cooker Chicken Jambalaya Recipe FAQs
How do I select ripe ingredients?
Absolutely! When choosing bell peppers, look for ones that are firm and vibrant in color, without any soft spots or blemishes. For the chicken, select fresh breasts without any dark spots or unusual odor. Andouille sausage should be well-sealed and show no signs of discoloration.
What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Very! Store leftover jambalaya in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure it’s completely cooled before refrigerating. If you want to keep it longer, consider portioning it and freezing in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
Can I freeze Slow Cooker Chicken Jambalaya?
Absolutely! To freeze, allow the jambalaya to cool to room temperature. Then, portion it into freezer-safe bags or containers, sealing them tightly to remove as much air as possible. Label the bags with the date, and you can freeze it for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating.
What should I do if the rice gets soggy?
I often recommend adding cooked rice just before serving instead of during the cooking process. This keeps the rice fluffy and avoids it soaking up too much moisture. If it’s already soggy, try adding more cooked rice to balance the consistency.
Is there a way to make this dish pet-friendly?
While this jambalaya is great for humans, it’s best not to share with pets due to the seasoning and spices. However, you can set aside a small portion of cooked chicken and plain rice before adding the spices, which your furry friends can enjoy!
What if I have a shellfish allergy?
Great question! This recipe is naturally shellfish-free with just chicken and sausage, making it safe for those with shellfish allergies. If you’re looking to enhance flavor without the seafood, consider adding more spices or even a splash of hot sauce for extra kick!
Slow Cooker Chicken Jambalaya Full of Flavor and Ease
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare the Chicken: Begin by dicing the chicken breasts into 1-inch pieces.
- Slice the Sausage: Take the andouille sausage links and slice them into ½-inch pieces.
- Combine in Slow Cooker: In the slow cooker, toss in the chicken, sliced sausage, diced onion, chopped bell peppers, celery, and minced garlic.
- Add the Saucy Base: Pour in the crushed tomatoes, dried oregano, and chicken broth.
- Mix and Cook: Gently stir to combine all the ingredients, then cover the slow cooker. Set it on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
- Check for Doneness: When the cooking time is up, ensure chicken is fully cooked and vegetables are tender.
- Serve it Up: Serve the jambalaya over warm, fluffy rice.
