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 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs, diced; 1 cup chopped onion; 1 cup chopped green bell pepper; 1 cup chopped celery; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained; 2 cups chicken broth; 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning; 1 cup uncooked long-grain rice; Salt and pepper to taste; Optional: sliced green onions for garnish

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

A delicious blend of spices, chicken, and hearty vegetables, all cooked slowly to perfection.

Created by

Phoebe Turner

Last updated on 2025-12-28T15:34:13.054Z

This Simple Slow Cooker Chicken Jambalaya is the perfect dish for a busy weeknight. With a medley of flavors and minimal prep time, you can set it and forget it!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        A hearty, flavorful meal on a busy night
Minimal prep with maximum flavor
Perfect for leftovers or meal prep

      

The Essence of Jambalaya

Jambalaya is a classic dish that originated in Louisiana, influenced by various cultures including Creole and Cajun cuisines. It typically features a delightful mix of proteins, vegetables, and spices, all simmered together to create a harmonious blend of flavors. This Simple Slow Cooker Chicken Jambalaya embraces that essence, making it accessible for home cooks looking to enjoy a taste of the South without the fuss.

The beauty of jambalaya lies in its versatility. While traditionally made with sausage and seafood, this recipe focuses on tender chicken thighs, which provide a rich flavor that melds beautifully with the spices and vegetables. The slow cooker method allows the ingredients to infuse over time, creating a dish that is both comforting and satisfying.

Convenience of Slow Cooking

One of the standout features of this recipe is its simplicity. With minimal preparation required, you can quickly throw the ingredients into your slow cooker and let it do the work. This method is perfect for busy families or anyone looking to enjoy a homemade meal without spending hours in the kitchen.

Cooking on low for several hours allows flavors to develop more deeply than traditional stovetop cooking. The chicken becomes tender and juicy, while the vegetables soften and release their natural sweetness. By the time dinner rolls around, you’ll have a delightful meal ready to serve with little effort on your part.

Perfect for Meal Prep

This Simple Slow Cooker Chicken Jambalaya is not only a fantastic dinner option but also an excellent choice for meal prep. It stores well in the refrigerator for several days, making it easy to portion out for lunches or quick dinners throughout the week. Simply reheat and enjoy the same great flavors without any hassle.

Additionally, the recipe makes a generous amount, so it’s ideal for feeding a crowd or for those who enjoy leftovers. Whether you're sharing with family or simply want to make your week a bit easier, this jambalaya will keep you satisfied and nourished.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs, diced
1 cup chopped onion
1 cup chopped green bell pepper
1 cup chopped celery
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
2 cups chicken broth
1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
1 cup uncooked long-grain rice
Salt and pepper to taste
Optional: sliced green onions for garnish

Instructions

Prepare the Ingredients

In your slow cooker, combine the chicken, onion, bell pepper, celery, garlic, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, and Cajun seasoning.

Cook the Jambalaya

Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or high for 3 hours.

Add Rice

About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the uncooked rice. Cover and continue cooking until the rice is tender.

Season and Serve

Once cooked, season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with sliced green onions if desired.

Storage Tips

To store your leftover jambalaya, allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to four days, ensuring you have a delicious meal ready to go. For longer storage, consider freezing portions in freezer-safe bags. When properly stored, it can last up to three months in the freezer.

When you're ready to enjoy your frozen jambalaya, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave. Adding a splash of chicken broth while reheating can help restore moisture and enhance the flavors.

Serving Suggestions

For an authentic touch, consider serving your jambalaya with a side of crusty French bread or cornbread. These options complement the rich flavors of the dish and are perfect for soaking up the savory broth. A fresh green salad can also balance the meal, adding a refreshing crunch.

If you want to elevate the presentation, garnish with sliced green onions or fresh parsley just before serving. This adds a pop of color and a hint of freshness, enhancing the overall dining experience.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, but you will need to adjust the cooking time as brown rice takes longer to cook.

→ Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare everything the night before and store it in the fridge until you're ready to cook.

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free chicken broth.

→ Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes, you can freeze leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 months.