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Cindy’s Jambalaya

Cindy's Jambalaya
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Cindy’s Jambalaya is a flavorful and hearty one-pot meal combining savory chicken, smoky sausage, fresh vegetables, and a vibrant blend of Cajun spices. This quick and simple recipe offers bold flavors with a comforting warmth, perfect for family dinners or gatherings. Customizable and easy to prepare, it delivers a memorable taste of Cajun-inspired cuisine.

Ingredients

Scale

Proteins

  • 1 lb chicken, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 1 lb sausage, sliced (preferably smoked sausage)

Vegetables

  • 1 cup bell peppers, diced
  • 1 cup onions, diced
  • 1 cup celery, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced

Rice and Tomatoes

  • 1 ½ cups long-grain white rice
  • 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
  • 2 tbsp tomato paste

Seasonings and Broth

  • 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning
  • 3 cups chicken broth

Instructions

  1. Prep Your Ingredients: Dice the bell peppers, onions, celery, and garlic evenly. Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces and slice the sausage. Having everything ready makes the cooking process smooth and enjoyable.
  2. Brown the Meats: In a large pot or Dutch oven, brown the chicken and sausage over medium-high heat until golden and slightly crispy. This locks in flavor and builds a rich foundation.
  3. Sauté the Vegetables: Add the diced onion, celery, bell peppers, and garlic to the pot. Cook until softened and fragrant, about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent burning.
  4. Add Seasonings and Rice: Sprinkle in the Cajun seasoning and stir to coat the vegetables and meat evenly. Then add the rice, stirring it in so every grain is covered with spices and drippings.
  5. Incorporate Tomatoes and Broth: Pour in the diced tomatoes, tomato paste, and chicken broth. Stir everything together and bring the mixture to a simmer.
  6. Cook Until Perfect: Cover the pot and reduce heat to low. Let the jambalaya cook for about 25 to 30 minutes, or until the rice is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid. Fluff gently before serving.

Notes

  • Use a heavy-bottomed pot to prevent scorching and ensure even cooking.
  • Don’t skip browning the meat, as it adds deep layers of flavor and texture.
  • Adjust the spice gradually, tasting as you go to control heat level.
  • Let the jambalaya rest covered for 5-10 minutes off the heat to allow flavors to meld.
  • Add fresh chopped parsley or green onions just before serving for a bright finish.

Nutrition

Keywords: Jambalaya, Cajun, One-Pot Meal, Spicy, Chicken, Sausage, Rice, Comfort Food, Southern Cooking

Find it online: https://ninagourmet.com/cindys-jambalaya/