Simple Slow Cooker Chicken Jambalaya

Name: Simple Slow Cooker Chicken Jambalaya
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 6 h
Total time: 6 h 15 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound chicken thighs, boneless and skinless, chopped; 1 pound smoked sausage, sliced; 1 bell pepper, diced; 1 onion, diced; 2 celery stalks, diced; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes; 2 cups chicken broth; 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 1 bay leaf; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 cups cooked rice; Chopped green onions for garnish

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

Enjoy a flavorful and comforting meal with this Simple Slow Cooker Chicken Jambalaya. Perfect for busy days, this dish is packed with spices, chicken, and sausage.

Created by

Phoebe Turner

Last updated on 2025-12-28T15:28:13.459Z

This Simple Slow Cooker Chicken Jambalaya is a delightful fusion of flavors that transports you to the heart of Louisiana. With tender chicken, smoky sausage, and a medley of vegetables, it's a dish that warms both the body and soul.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Hearty and satisfying, perfect for family dinners
Minimal prep time with maximum flavor
A one-pot meal that makes cleanup a breeze

      

A Taste of Louisiana

Jambalaya is a classic dish that hails from Louisiana, bringing together the vibrant flavors of Creole and Cajun cooking. This Simple Slow Cooker Chicken Jambalaya captures the essence of traditional recipes while making it accessible for busy cooks. The combination of chicken, sausage, and vegetables simmering together in a rich broth creates a dish that’s not only delicious but also a celebration of Southern culinary heritage.

The use of spices like Cajun seasoning and dried thyme adds depth and warmth to the dish, making each bite a flavorful experience. With its hearty ingredients and comforting aroma, this jambalaya will transport you straight to the bayous of Louisiana, reminding you of family gatherings and festive occasions.

Effortless Cooking with a Slow Cooker

One of the standout features of this recipe is its simplicity. With just a few minutes of prep time, you can have all your ingredients ready to go into the slow cooker. This makes it an ideal choice for busy weekdays or lazy weekends when you want to enjoy a home-cooked meal without spending hours in the kitchen.

By using a slow cooker, the flavors meld beautifully as the dish cooks, resulting in tender chicken and perfectly cooked sausage. The convenience of setting it and forgetting it allows you to focus on other tasks while your meal is being prepared, making it a stress-free option for any home chef.

Perfect for Any Occasion

This Simple Slow Cooker Chicken Jambalaya is versatile enough to serve at various occasions, from family dinners to potlucks. Its hearty nature ensures that it can satisfy even the hungriest of appetites, while the rich flavors appeal to both kids and adults alike. You can easily double the recipe for a larger crowd, making it a go-to dish for gatherings.

Additionally, this jambalaya can be customized to suit your taste preferences. Feel free to add other proteins like shrimp or adjust the spice level to make it milder or hotter. This flexibility allows you to make it your own, ensuring that everyone at the table leaves satisfied.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

1 pound chicken thighs, boneless and skinless, chopped
1 pound smoked sausage, sliced
1 bell pepper, diced
1 onion, diced
2 celery stalks, diced
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
2 cups chicken broth
1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 bay leaf
Salt and pepper to taste
2 cups cooked rice
Chopped green onions for garnish

Gather all ingredients before starting for a seamless cooking experience.

Instructions

Prepare the Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped chicken, sliced sausage, bell pepper, onion, celery, and garlic. Mix well.

Add to Slow Cooker

Transfer the mixture to the slow cooker. Add the diced tomatoes, chicken broth, Cajun seasoning, thyme, bay leaf, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.

Cook

Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or high for 3 hours until the chicken is tender and fully cooked.

Add Rice

About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the cooked rice and let it heat through.

Serve

Remove the bay leaf, garnish with chopped green onions, and serve hot.

Enjoy your homemade Jambalaya with a side of crusty bread or a fresh salad!

Storing and Reheating

Leftovers from this Simple Slow Cooker Chicken Jambalaya can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. This makes it a fantastic option for meal prepping or for those who want to enjoy a delicious meal without the fuss the next day.

To reheat, simply warm it up on the stovetop over medium heat or in the microwave until heated through. If the dish appears dry, you can add a splash of chicken broth to restore its moisture, ensuring it remains as flavorful as the day it was made.

Serving Suggestions

When serving this jambalaya, consider pairing it with a fresh green salad or crusty bread to soak up the delicious broth. A side of coleslaw adds a nice crunch and balances the warmth of the dish. For an authentic touch, serve it with hot sauce on the side for those who like an extra kick.

For a festive presentation, garnish with chopped green onions and perhaps a sprinkle of parsley. Not only does this enhance the visual appeal, but it also adds a fresh flavor that complements the hearty jambalaya beautifully.

Health Benefits

This Simple Slow Cooker Chicken Jambalaya is not just delicious but also packed with nutrients. The combination of lean chicken, vegetables, and spices provides a balanced meal rich in protein, vitamins, and minerals. The inclusion of bell peppers, onions, and celery adds fiber, which is essential for digestive health.

Moreover, cooking with a slow cooker often requires less oil and fat compared to traditional frying methods, making it a healthier alternative. By controlling the ingredients and seasonings, you can enjoy a comforting and satisfying meal without compromising on nutrition.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of meat?

Yes, you can substitute shrimp, chicken breast, or even tofu for a vegetarian option.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I freeze Jambalaya?

Yes, it freezes well. Just make sure to cool it completely before packing it into freezer-safe containers.

→ What can I serve with Jambalaya?

It pairs well with a simple green salad or some crusty bread.