Creole Jambalaya - Easy Meal Recipe

Name: Creole Jambalaya – Easy Meal Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 4
Ingredients: ½ pound boneless chicken breast or thighs: Perfect for tenderness and flavor.; 6 ounces raw shrimp or prawns: Feel free to increase this if you love seafood.; 6 ounces smoked andouille sausage: Or any spicy smoked sausage alternative, for that smoky kick.; 14 ounces crushed tomatoes: A standard can, or use finely chopped fresh tomatoes.; 2 cups chicken broth: You might need slightly less; this depends on your rice.; 1 cup rice: Basmati rice works like a charm but feel free to use your favorite.; 1 bell pepper: I used half red and half yellow, but any color combo adds a great look.; ½ medium onion, chopped: Adds sweetness and depth.; 1 celery stalk, diced: For crunch and flavor.; 2 garlic cloves, minced: A must-have for depth.; 1 tablespoon vegetable oil: This is for sautéing.; 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce: Adds umami deliciousness.; ½ teaspoon dried thyme leaves: Classic herb to enhance flavor.; ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika: For that signature smoky note.; A pinch of cayenne pepper: Adjust this to your heat preference.; ½ teaspoon tomato paste; 1 bay leaf: For subtle flavor enhancement.; 1 teaspoon freshly chopped parsley: For garnish and freshness.

Last Updated on August 1, 2025

Before we dive into the heart of Creole jambalaya, let’s chat about pairings. This dish is a flavor powerhouse packed with spices, proteins, and rice. To complement its rich taste, consider a few refreshing sides. A simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette can lift the heaviness of jambalaya.

You might also serve it alongside some crusty garlic bread. If you’re feeling adventurous, a light coleslaw can add a crunchy contrast. And, of course, no southern meal is complete without something cool to wash it down—a classic sweet tea or a fruity lemonade adds the perfect finishing touch.

Introduction: Why This Recipe is a Game-Changer

Have you ever had a dish that transports you to another place with just one bite? For me, that’s Creole jambalaya. The world of Creole cuisine is vibrant, bringing together French, Spanish, African, and even Native American influences. This recipe is a celebration of that fusion. It’s simple to make yet bursting with flavor.

What’s more, it’s one of those recipes where you can toss in your favorite ingredients and it somehow always turns out great. This jambalaya is a complete meal with protein, veggies, and carbs, making it perfect for dinner or even meal prep for the week. Plus, it’s a hit at gatherings—everyone loves a cozy bowl of jambalaya!

When I first attempted this recipe, I wanted to capture the essence of New Orleans cooking. I shopped for fresh ingredients and selected spices carefully. The burst of flavor was incredible, and now it feels like my very own special creation.

My Experience with the Ingredients

As I gathered my ingredients, I felt like a kid in a candy store. The vivid colors, vibrant scents, and promise of flavor had me excited. I chose boneless chicken thighs because they are tender and absorb flavors beautifully. The shrimp, well, they bring a delightful sweetness to the mix.

And then there was the sausage. I opted for smoked andouille, a staple in Creole cooking. The aroma that filled my kitchen as it cooked was heavenly. The crushed tomatoes would serve as the heart of this dish, while the rice soaked up all the goodness around it. Every element promised to contribute something special.

The herbs and spices were no less exciting. The thyme and cayenne pepper flirted deliciously in my mind, hinting at the warmth I would later feel as I enjoyed my bowl of jambalaya.

Ingredients List

Here’s what you’ll need to get started on this delicious Creole jambalaya recipe:

½ pound boneless chicken breast or thighs: Perfect for tenderness and flavor.
6 ounces raw shrimp or prawns: Feel free to increase this if you love seafood.
6 ounces smoked andouille sausage: Or any spicy smoked sausage alternative, for that smoky kick.
14 ounces crushed tomatoes: A standard can, or use finely chopped fresh tomatoes.
2 cups chicken broth: You might need slightly less; this depends on your rice.
1 cup rice: Basmati rice works like a charm but feel free to use your favorite.
1 bell pepper: I used half red and half yellow, but any color combo adds a great look.
½ medium onion, chopped: Adds sweetness and depth.
1 celery stalk, diced: For crunch and flavor.
2 garlic cloves, minced: A must-have for depth.
1 tablespoon vegetable oil: This is for sautéing.
1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce: Adds umami deliciousness.
½ teaspoon dried thyme leaves: Classic herb to enhance flavor.
¼ teaspoon smoked paprika: For that signature smoky note.
A pinch of cayenne pepper: Adjust this to your heat preference.
½ teaspoon tomato paste (or purée): To deepen the tomato flavor.
1 bay leaf: For subtle flavor enhancement.
1 teaspoon freshly chopped parsley: For garnish and freshness.

How to Make Creole Jambalaya

Let’s roll up our sleeves and jump into the kitchen. Follow these steps closely for great results.

Step 1: Sauté the Sausage

Start by heating a large skillet or pot over medium heat. Add 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil. Once hot, toss in the smoked andouille sausage, allowing it to crisp up for about 3-4 minutes. As the sausage browns, it releases its oils and flavors, creating a beautiful base.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Next, it’s time to add the boneless chicken breast or thighs. Cut them into bite-sized pieces. Toss the chicken into the same pot and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the chicken is browned on all sides. Stir frequently to prevent sticking.

Step 3: Add Aromatics

Now, combine the chopped onion, diced celery, and minced garlic. Stir everything together, allowing the veggies to soften, which should take about 3-4 minutes. The aroma will be intoxicating! Once softened, sprinkle the dried thyme, smoked paprika, and a pinch of cayenne pepper over the mixture, stirring to coat the ingredients in those glorious spices.

Step 4: Pour in Tomatoes and Broth

It’s time to add the crushed tomatoes, chicken broth, and Worcestershire sauce. Stir everything well to combine. This will be the juicy heart of your jambalaya.

Step 5: Rice Time!

Next, add the cup of rice, the bay leaf, and tomato paste. Give everything a good stir, ensuring the rice is well mixed in. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil.

Step 6: Simmer

Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Let it simmer for about 25 minutes. You’ll want to check occasionally to make sure liquid isn’t boiling off too fast. Add more broth if needed. After 25 minutes, remove the lid and stir gently.

Step 7: Add Shrimp and Peppers

Toss in the shrimp and the bell pepper (chopped). Stir and cook uncovered for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the shrimp are pink and opaque and the rice is tender.

Step 8: Finish and Serve

Remove the pot from heat and discard the bay leaf. Adjust the seasoning with salt, pepper, or even more cayenne if you want to kick up the heat. Finally, garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve hot.

Nutrition Information

Recipe Notes

This jambalaya recipe is versatile, and the ingredients can be adjusted based on what you have. Here’s a closer look at some key ingredients:

Chicken: I love thighs for their juiciness, but breasts work fine, too. If you’re in the mood for something different, turkey or even tofu can be great substitutes.
Shrimp: Fresh is the best if you can get it, but frozen shrimp can save the day when you’re in a pinch. Just be sure to thaw them beforehand.
Andouille Sausage: This gives the dish that signature smoky flavor. If you’re not in the mood for sausage, you can skip it or replace it with a plant-based option.
Crushed Tomatoes: They create a rich base for the jambalaya. San Marzano tomatoes are sublime if you can find them.
Rice: I use Basmati because of its fluffy texture. Long-grain white rice, jasmine, or even brown rice can be used for a healthier option—just adjust the cooking time.

Recipe Variations

This jambalaya is a gorgeous canvas. Here are a few ways to shake things up:

Seafood Variation: Add crawfish, clams, or mussels for a decadent seafood jambalaya.
Vegetarian Version: Omit meat and shrimp altogether. Use mushrooms and additional vegetables like zucchini or squash.
Spicy Version: Dial up the heat by adding diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce.
Spanish Influence: Incorporate saffron for a Spanish twist, creating a dish similar to paella.
Rice Alternatives: For healthier options, substitute brown rice or quinoa. Adjust cooking time as needed.
Slow Cooker Version: Toss ingredients into a slow cooker and let it work its magic for a hands-off meal.

Conclusion

Creole jambalaya is a dish that embodies love, culture, and culinary creativity. From the first sizzle of sausage to the final sprinkle of parsley, every step in making this dish is filled with joy. It brings people together, warming not just the stomach but the heart.

So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and treat yourself and your loved ones to a bowl of this incredible jambalaya. You won’t just cook—you’ll create memories. Enjoy every bite!

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Print Recipe

Creole Jambalaya – Easy Meal Recipe

Author: Mary Siegel Cuisine: American Courses: Main Course

Difficulty: Intermediate Prep Time 15 mins Cook Time 45 mins Total Time 1 hr

Servings: 4 Calories: 433

Best Season: Suitable throughout the year

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