Introduction
I still remember the first time I made jambalaya—it was for a family gathering, and I wanted a dish that was hearty, flavorful, and comforting. Since then, this slow cooker jambalaya has become my go-to recipe for effortless cooking. With just 10 minutes of prep and a “dump and go” method, it’s a dish that simplifies your day while delivering bold, Louisiana-inspired flavors. Whether you’re hosting a party or looking for a set-it-and-forget-it meal, this jambalaya is the ultimate comfort food. Packed with chicken, sausage, shrimp, and a medley of vegetables, it’s a one-pot wonder that’ll have everyone coming back for seconds. This Recipe is from AB with “Smokin & Grillin with AB!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This slow cooker jambalaya is packed with flavor, combining smoky sausage, tender chicken, and succulent shrimp in a spiced tomato-based broth. The addition of Creole seasoning brings a bold kick that ties everything together beautifully. With minimal prep and the magic of a slow cooker, this recipe is practically foolproof. Once the ingredients are in, the slow cooker does all the work, leaving you free to relax or focus on other tasks. Loaded with protein, rice, and vegetables, this dish is as filling as it is flavorful. It’s perfect for feeding a crowd or for meal prepping—it tastes even better the next day!
Healthy and Balanced
Jambalaya is a complete meal in a bowl, offering a balance of protein, carbs, and vegetables. The use of lean chicken, shrimp, and vegetables keeps it nutritious, while the Creole seasoning provides a boost of antioxidants from its blend of spices. While the recipe includes sausage for its smoky flavor, it’s used in moderation, making it a flavorful addition rather than an overpowering ingredient. Cooking the dish in a slow cooker also allows the flavors to meld together naturally, reducing the need for heavy oils or added fats.
Equipment and Tools You’ll Need
A slow cooker (or crockpot) is essential for this recipe. Look for one with a timer and warming function for the best results. Use a sturdy cutting board for prepping vegetables and proteins, and a sharp knife for slicing sausage, dicing vegetables, and cutting chicken. A mixing spoon is perfect for stirring ingredients in the slow cooker, while measuring cups and spoons ensure precise measurements for rice, broth, and seasonings. A spatula helps mix ingredients thoroughly without making a mess. Optional tools include kitchen shears for trimming chicken or deveining shrimp, a vegetable peeler for prepping carrots or other veggies, and a ladle for serving the jambalaya into bowls.
PrintHow to Make the Perfect Slow Cooker Jambalaya
- Total Time: 0 hours
- Yield: family-style dish
Ingredients
Proteins:
1 lb chicken (diced into bite-sized pieces)
1/2 lb sausage (smoked or andouille, sliced)
1 lb shrimp (deveined, tail-on or off as preferred).
Vegetables:
1 large onion (diced)
1 1/2 cups celery (diced)
1 1/2 cups bell peppers (green
red, or orange, diced).
Base Ingredients:
2 tbsp tomato paste
1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
2 cups chicken broth
1 cup long-grain rice.
Seasonings:
1 tbsp Creole seasoning
1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for added heat)
salt and pepper to taste.
Instructions
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Dice the vegetables and proteins. Dice the onion, celery, and bell peppers. Slice the sausage into rounds and cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces. Set aside. Add the diced vegetables, sausage, and chicken to the slow cooker. Stir to combine. Stir in the tomato paste, diced tomatoes, and chicken broth. Sprinkle in the Creole seasoning and cayenne pepper (if using).
2. Set the timer and cook on high for 3–4 hours or low for 7–8 hours. One hour before the cooking time ends, add the rice. Stir to ensure it is submerged in the liquid. About 15 minutes before serving, add the shrimp. Make sure they are fully submerged in the broth to cook evenly.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 3-4 hours
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: Creole
Serve and Enjoy
Before serving, stir the jambalaya thoroughly to ensure everything is well-mixed. Adjust seasonings as needed. Ladle the jambalaya into bowls, garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and enjoy!
Final Thoughts
This slow cooker jambalaya is everything you want in a one-pot meal—rich, hearty, and bursting with flavor. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, lazy weekends, or when you’re entertaining guests. Did you try this recipe? Let us know in the comments below how it turned out, and don’t forget to share your tips for leveling up this dish!
About the Author
Hi, I’m Nikki! I specialize in creating simple, flavorful recipes that bring people together around the table. Follow me for more tips and tricks to simplify your cooking and elevate your meals. Keep things simple, flavorful recipes that bring people together around the table. Follow me for more tips and tricks to simplify your cooking and elevate your meals.