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, cut into bite-sized pieces; 1 lb smoked sausage, sliced; 1 onion, chopped; 1 bell pepper, chopped; 2 celery stalks, chopped; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, with juices; 1 cup chicken broth; 2 cups long-grain rice; 2 tsp Cajun seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup frozen peas; Chopped green onions for garnish

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

Experience the comforting flavors of a classic jambalaya with the ease of a slow cooker. This Simple Slow Cooker Chicken Jambalaya is a one-pot wonder that brings together tender chicken, spicy sausage, and a medley of vegetables, all simmered to perfection.

Created by

Phoebe Turner

Last updated on 2025-12-28T14:52:13.256Z

This Simple Slow Cooker Chicken Jambalaya is a dish that brings a taste of Louisiana to your kitchen. Using a slow cooker means you can set it and forget it, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully while you go about your day.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich and savory flavors that transport you to New Orleans
Hands-off cooking that saves you time in the kitchen
A hearty meal that's perfect for family gatherings

      

A Taste of New Orleans

Jambalaya is more than just a meal; it's a celebration of flavors that reflect the vibrant culture of New Orleans. This Simple Slow Cooker Chicken Jambalaya captures that essence beautifully, combining savory chicken and smoky sausage with a colorful array of vegetables. Each bite is a reminder of the rich culinary traditions of the South, where every dish tells a story. Your taste buds will dance with delight as the Cajun seasoning brings warmth and depth to the dish.

The beauty of jambalaya lies in its versatility. Traditionally, it can incorporate seafood, meat, and an assortment of spices, but our slow cooker version simplifies the process while maintaining authentic flavors. The slow cooking method allows the ingredients to meld together, creating a harmony of tastes that you wouldn’t get from a quick stovetop method. This recipe is perfect for busy weekdays or leisurely weekends alike.

Effortless Meal Prep

One of the standout features of this Simple Slow Cooker Chicken Jambalaya is how easy it is to prepare. With just a few minutes of prep work, you can set your slow cooker and walk away, allowing it to do all the heavy lifting for you. This hands-off approach is ideal for those with a busy lifestyle or for anyone who simply wants to enjoy a home-cooked meal without spending hours in the kitchen.

You can prep the ingredients ahead of time, making it even easier to throw together on a hectic day. Chop the vegetables and store them in the fridge, or even assemble everything in the slow cooker the night before and refrigerate. When you’re ready to enjoy a warm, comforting dinner, just plug in your slow cooker and let it work its magic.

Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether you're hosting a family gathering or looking for a comforting weeknight dinner, this jambalaya recipe fits the bill. With its hearty ingredients and rich flavors, it’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters. Plus, the one-pot nature of the dish means less cleanup, which is always a bonus when entertaining guests.

Leftovers? Not a problem! This dish reheats beautifully, making it ideal for meal prep or for enjoying the next day. Simply store any extras in the fridge, and you’ll have a delicious meal ready to go. The flavors only get better as they sit, allowing you to enjoy the delightful taste of New Orleans again and again.

Ingredients

Jambalaya Ingredients

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
1 lb smoked sausage, sliced
1 onion, chopped
1 bell pepper, chopped
2 celery stalks, chopped
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, with juices
1 cup chicken broth
2 cups long-grain rice
2 tsp Cajun seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup frozen peas
Chopped green onions for garnish

Gather all ingredients before starting the cooking process for a smoother experience.

Instructions

Prepare the Ingredients

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

Cook the Jambalaya

Cover and cook on low for 6 hours, or until the rice is tender and the chicken is cooked through.

Add Peas and Serve

Stir in the frozen peas during the last 10 minutes of cooking. Serve hot, garnished with green onions.

Enjoy your delicious and hearty jambalaya!

Storage Tips

If you find yourself with leftovers after making this Simple Slow Cooker Chicken Jambalaya, don't worry! Proper storage will keep your meal fresh and delicious for days. Allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to four days. For longer storage, consider freezing portions for up to three months. Just be sure to label the containers with the date for easy tracking.

When you're ready to enjoy your leftovers, simply reheat them on the stovetop or in the microwave. If the dish seems a little dry after freezing, add a splash of chicken broth or water to restore its original moisture and flavor. This way, you can savor the rich flavors of jambalaya even on your busiest days!

Variations to Try

While this recipe focuses on chicken and sausage, jambalaya is incredibly versatile. Feel free to experiment with different proteins, such as shrimp, crawfish, or even vegetarian options like beans and tofu. If you're in the mood for a spicy kick, consider adding diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the mix. The beauty of jambalaya is its adaptability, allowing you to tailor it to your taste preferences.

For a twist on the traditional recipe, try adding a cup of corn or diced zucchini to the slow cooker for extra flavor and nutrition. You can also switch up the rice; for a healthier option, use brown rice, but be sure to adjust the cooking time, as it may require a longer simmer to become tender.

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 gluten-free?

Yes, just ensure that the sausage and broth are gluten-free.

→ How do I store leftovers?

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

→ Can I freeze this jambalaya?

Yes, you can freeze it for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.