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Slow Cooker Chicken Jambalaya

A comforting, flavor-packed jambalaya made effortlessly in a slow cooker, perfect for family gatherings or busy weeknights.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 8 hours
Total Time 8 hours 20 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Cajun, Creole, Southern
Calories: 375
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main components
  • 2 pounds Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs Chicken thighs add extra moisture and flavor.
  • 1 pound Turkey sausage or Andouille Andouille gives an authentic kick, while turkey sausage is a lighter option.
  • 1 medium Onion A sweet yellow onion adds depth.
  • 1 cup Bell peppers (mixed colors) Choose vibrant colors for sweetness and color variation.
  • 1 cup Celery Fresh celery adds a lovely crunch.
  • 4 cloves Garlic Fresh minced garlic infuses the dish with flavor.
  • 1 can Diced tomatoes with green chilies Adds an extra flavor boost.
  • 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning A must-have; can be homemade or store-bought.
  • 1 teaspoon Thyme Fresh is ideal, but dried works too.
  • 2 leaves Bay leaves For subtle earthy notes.
  • 1 tablespoon Paprika Smoked paprika adds a lovely smoky undertone.
  • 4 cups Chicken stock Low-sodium is recommended to control saltiness.
  • 2 cups Long-grain white rice Ensure it's rinsed to remove excess starch.
  • 1/4 cup Fresh parsley (for garnish) Adds a pop of color and flavor.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Dice the chicken and sausage, and chop the vegetables into bite-sized pieces.
  2. Add chicken, sausage, vegetables, tomatoes, and spices into the slow cooker, layering in the order listed.
Cooking
  1. Set to cook on low for 7-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
Final Steps
  1. Stir in the rice in the last 30 minutes of cooking to ensure it is submerged in the broth.
  2. Fluff the rice with a fork and serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.

Notes

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days or frozen for 2-3 months. For a spicier kick, add diced jalapeños or cayenne pepper.