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: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced; 1 cup long-grain rice; 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained; 1 cup chicken broth; 1 onion, chopped; 1 bell pepper, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning; 1 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 1 cup frozen peas; 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

Enjoy a hearty and flavorful meal with this Simple Slow Cooker Chicken Jambalaya. Perfect for busy days, it combines tender chicken, rice, and spices for a satisfying dish.

Created by

Phoebe Turner

Last updated on 2025-12-28T15:22:10.955Z

This Simple Slow Cooker Chicken Jambalaya is a delightful dish that brings the vibrant flavors of Louisiana cuisine to your table. With minimal prep time and the convenience of a slow cooker, it's perfect for busy weeknights or gatherings with friends and family.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich and bold flavors that transport you to New Orleans
Easy preparation with just a few simple ingredients
A wholesome meal that cooks itself while you go about your day

      

A Taste of New Orleans

Jambalaya is a classic dish that hails from the vibrant city of New Orleans, known for its rich culinary heritage. This Simple Slow Cooker Chicken Jambalaya encapsulates the essence of Creole cooking, combining a medley of flavors and textures that make every bite a delight. With the warm spices and hearty ingredients, you’ll feel transported to the lively streets of the French Quarter with this comforting meal.

The beauty of jambalaya lies in its versatility. While this recipe focuses on chicken, you can easily customize it by adding shrimp, sausage, or even vegetables to suit your taste. This makes it a go-to recipe for gatherings, where everyone can enjoy a delicious, shareable dish that satisfies all appetites.

Effortless Meal Prep

One of the standout features of this slow cooker jambalaya is the ease of preparation. Simply chop your ingredients and toss them into the slow cooker—no need for complicated steps or time-consuming cooking methods. This makes it an ideal recipe for busy weeknights or meal prepping for the week ahead.

Once everything is in the slow cooker, you can go about your day knowing that a wholesome, flavorful meal is simmering away. The slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in a dish that is both satisfying and delicious without requiring constant attention.

Serving Suggestions

When it comes to serving your jambalaya, consider pairing it with a simple side salad or some crusty bread to soak up the flavorful juices. A light squeeze of lemon over the top can also brighten the dish and enhance the spices, making each bite even more enjoyable.

For those looking to add a little kick, serve with hot sauce or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper. Don't forget to garnish with fresh green onions for a pop of color and freshness, elevating both the presentation and the taste of this hearty meal.

Ingredients

For the Jambalaya

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
1 cup long-grain rice
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
1 cup chicken broth
1 onion, chopped
1 bell pepper, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tbsp Cajun seasoning
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1 cup frozen peas
2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)

Mix all the ingredients well before placing the lid on the slow cooker.

Instructions

Prepare the Ingredients

In a slow cooker, combine the diced chicken, rice, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, onion, bell pepper, garlic, Cajun seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to mix all the ingredients.

Cook the Jambalaya

Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6 hours. After 6 hours, stir in the frozen peas and let it cook for an additional 10-15 minutes.

Serve and Enjoy

Once done, fluff the jambalaya with a fork and garnish with sliced green onions. Serve hot and enjoy your delicious meal!

Feel free to customize with your favorite proteins or vegetables!

Nutritional Benefits

This Simple Slow Cooker Chicken Jambalaya is not only delicious but also packed with nutrition. Chicken is a great source of lean protein, which is essential for muscle repair and growth. Coupled with the fiber-rich rice and the vitamins found in bell peppers and peas, this dish provides a well-rounded meal that's both filling and nutritious.

Additionally, the use of tomatoes introduces beneficial antioxidants like lycopene, which can support heart health. With a balance of protein, carbohydrates, and vegetables, you can feel good about serving this dish to your family.

Storage Tips

Leftovers from your jambalaya can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. This makes it an excellent choice for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a hearty lunch or dinner throughout the week without the hassle of cooking each day.

If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing individual portions. Just make sure to let it cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers. When ready to eat, simply reheat in the microwave or on the stove, and you'll have a delicious meal ready in minutes.

Variations to Try

While this recipe focuses on chicken, feel free to mix it up! You can add shrimp or andouille sausage for a more traditional jambalaya experience. Alternatively, for a vegetarian version, use beans and extra vegetables like zucchini and corn, substituting vegetable broth for chicken broth.

Experimenting with different spices can also yield exciting results. Try adding smoked paprika for a smokier flavor or fresh herbs like thyme and parsley to brighten the dish. The possibilities are endless, making jambalaya a perfect canvas for your culinary creativity.

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 typically takes longer to cook.

→ Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Absolutely! Substitute the chicken with a mix of vegetables such as zucchini, mushrooms, and bell peppers.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat thoroughly before serving.

→ What can I serve with jambalaya?

Jambalaya is a complete meal on its own, but you can serve it with a side of crusty bread or a fresh salad.