Indulge in the bold and spicy flavors of the South with this Slow Cooker Jambalaya recipe. Known for its Cajun seasoning and hearty mix of ingredients, jambalaya is a beloved comfort food perfect for family dinners or gatherings.
This easy slow cooker version combines andouille sausage, shrimp, and chicken, making it ideal for busy days when you crave a warm, satisfying meal without the hassle.
Why You Will Love Slow Cooker Jambalaya
If you’re looking for a meal that’s packed with bold flavors, easy to prepare, and perfect for any occasion, then Slow Cooker Jambalaya is for you.
This dish, a Louisiana classic, brings together a perfect balance of spicy, savory, and hearty ingredients, all slow-cooked to perfection. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or a beginner, this recipe is a game-changer. Here’s why you’ll absolutely love it:
1. Bursting with Flavor
Jambalaya is known for its rich, deep flavors that come from a combination of Cajun spices, smoked sausage, tender chicken, and succulent shrimp. As the ingredients simmer in the slow cooker, their flavors blend together beautifully, creating a dish that is both bold and comforting.
The holy trinity of Cajun cooking—onions, bell peppers, and celery—adds depth, while garlic, tomatoes, and spices like paprika, thyme, and cayenne bring a warm, slightly spicy kick. The slow cooker allows all these ingredients to meld together over time, intensifying the taste and making each bite irresistibly delicious.
2. Set It and Forget It
One of the biggest reasons to love Slow Cooker Jambalaya is its effortless preparation. Unlike traditional stovetop versions that require constant stirring and monitoring, this recipe allows you to dump the ingredients in the slow cooker, set the timer, and walk away.
In a few hours, your home will be filled with the mouthwatering aroma of Cajun goodness, and dinner will be ready with minimal effort.
3. Hearty and Satisfying
Jambalaya is the ultimate comfort food, offering a well-balanced mix of protein, vegetables, and carbohydrates. With chicken, shrimp, and sausage, you get a powerhouse of protein that keeps you full and satisfied. The rice absorbs all the delicious flavors, making each spoonful rich and hearty.
Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or meal prepping for the week, Slow Cooker Jambalaya is a filling dish that doesn’t skimp on flavor or nutrition.
Plus, it’s easily customizable—you can swap proteins, adjust spice levels, or add extra veggies to suit your preferences.
low Cooker Jambalaya
Difficulty: Beginner Prep Time: 20 mins Cook Time: 6 hrs Total Time: 6 hrs 20 mins
Cooking Method: Brolling Cuisine: American Courses: Dinner
Cooking Temp:93 C Servings: 6 Estimated Cost:$ 11.85 Calories:380 kcal
Best Season:Winter, Spring
Description
This Slow Cooker Jambalaya is a go-to recipe for a no-fuss, flavor-packed meal. Simply prepare your ingredients, set your slow cooker, and let the magic happen. The slow cooking process melds together a beautiful symphony of spices, making this dish a guaranteed hit, whether you’re an experienced cook or a beginner.
Ingredients
1 package andouille sausage (sliced into ¼-inch pieces)
- 1⁄2 pound uncooked shrimp (peeled and deveined)
- 1 large boneless,skinless chicken breast (chopped into 1-inch pieces)
- 3 bell peppers (diced)
- 1 onion (diced)
- 2-3 jalapeños (diced)
- 1 cups uncooked white rice
- 2 cups low sodium chicken broth
- crushed tomatoes
- 1 tablespoons minced garlic
- 3 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
- salt, pepper
- Cilantro or parsley, for garnish
Instructions
- Combine the Base: In a greased slow cooker, add the sausage, chicken, bell peppers, onion, jalapeños, chicken broth, crushed tomatoes, garlic, Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
- Cook on Low: Cover and cook on low for 3-4 hours.
- Add the Rice: Stir in the rice and continue to cook for another 1-2 hours, or until the rice is tender.
- Finish with Shrimp: About 20 minutes before serving, add the shrimp, stir, cover, and cook for another 15-20 minutes.
- Serve: Stir well, garnish with cilantro or parsley, and serve hot.
Note
Slow Cooker Jambalaya Tips and Serving Tricks
Jambalaya is a flavorful Creole and Cajun dish loaded with meat, seafood, and spices, making it perfect for slow cooking. A slow cooker allows the flavors to meld beautifully while keeping meal prep simple. Here are some key tips and serving tricks to ensure a perfect jambalaya every time.
Slow Cooker Jambalaya Tips
1. Use the Right Protein Mix
Traditional jambalaya includes andouille sausage, chicken, and shrimp. For a well-balanced dish:
- Brown the sausage and chicken before adding them to the slow cooker to enhance their flavor.
- Add shrimp in the last 30 minutes to prevent overcooking.
2. Layer Ingredients Properly
- Start with a base of diced onions, bell peppers, and celery (the “Holy Trinity” of Cajun cooking).
- Add garlic, tomatoes, and seasonings like paprika, thyme, and cayenne for deep flavors.
- Liquids (chicken broth and diced tomatoes) should go on top to distribute flavors evenly.
3. Don’t Overcook the Rice
Rice can become mushy in a slow cooker. Here are two ways to handle it:
- Cook Separately: Prepare rice on the stovetop and stir it in before serving.
- Add at the End: If using the slow cooker, add rice in the last hour and monitor closely.
4. Use the Right Spices
- Cajun or Creole seasoning gives the dish its signature kick.
- A dash of hot sauce or a sprinkle of cayenne can adjust the spice level to your preference.
- A bay leaf adds a rich depth of flavor—just remember to remove it before serving.
5. Don’t Forget the Shrimp Trick
Shrimp cooks quickly, so add it in the last 20–30 minutes to keep it tender. If adding frozen shrimp, thaw it first to avoid excess water in the dish.
Serving Tricks
1. Presentation Matters
- Serve jambalaya in a rustic bowl with fresh chopped parsley or green onions for color.
- A side of cornbread or crusty French bread complements the dish perfectly.
2. Make It a Crowd-Pleaser
- Serve with different toppings like extra hot sauce, lemon wedges, or shredded cheese to let guests customize their bowl.
- If serving a large group, keep the rice separate so guests can adjust their portion size.
3. Leftovers and Storage
- Jambalaya tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
- Reheat slowly to avoid overcooking the shrimp.
4. Pairing Suggestions
- Pair with a crisp white wine (like Sauvignon Blanc) or a light beer to balance the spice.
- A simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette complements the rich flavors.
Pro Tips for the Perfect Jambalaya:
- Layer Your Ingredients: Start by layering the sausage, chicken, and vegetables before adding the broth and spices. This ensures the flavors distribute evenly throughout the dish.
- Rice Matters: Add the rice in the last few hours of cooking to prevent it from becoming mushy.
- Adjust the Heat: For a mild jambalaya, add two jalapeños; for more heat, add three.
- Shrimp at the Right Time: To avoid overcooking the shrimp, stir them in during the last 20 minutes of cooking.
- Garnish for Freshness: Top your jambalaya with chopped cilantro or parsley for a fresh contrast to the rich, hearty flavors.
Conclusion
Slow Cooker Jambalaya is a must-try dish that combines flavor, convenience, and heartiness in one pot. It’s easy to make, perfect for any occasion, and packed with bold Cajun spices that will leave you craving more. If you love delicious, no-fuss meals, this is one recipe you’ll keep coming back to!
By following these slow cooker tips and serving tricks, your jambalaya will be a hit every time! Enjoy a stress-free, flavor-packed meal with minimal effort.
