Jambalaya: A Delightful Southern Creole Rice Dish with Chicken, Sausage, and Shrimp

Jambalaya: A Delightful Southern Creole Rice Dish with Chicken, Sausage, and Shrimp

Jambalaya is a vibrant dish from the Creole cuisine of Louisiana, known for its bold flavors and hearty ingredients. This one-pot wonder is perfect for family dinners or celebrations, combining rice, tender chicken, smoky sausage, and succulent shrimp with a medley of spices and vegetables.

Ingredients:
– 1 lb chicken breast, cubed
– 1 lb andouille sausage, sliced
– 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cups long-grain white rice
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
– 1 large onion, diced
– 1 bell pepper, diced
– 2 celery stalks, diced
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
– 2 bay leaves
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:
1. Heat a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the olive oil.
2. Cook the andouille sausage slices until browned. Remove and set aside.
3. Add the cubed chicken to the same pot, seasoning with salt and pepper. Brown on all sides and then remove and set aside with the sausage.
4. In the same pot, add the diced onion, bell pepper, and celery. Sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
5. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
6. Stir in the rice, making sure it gets well coated in the oil and vegetables.
7. Pour in the chicken broth, diced tomatoes (with their juices), thyme, paprika, oregano, cayenne pepper, and bay leaves. Stir well.
8. Add back the sausage and chicken to the pot. Bring the mixture to a boil.
9. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for about 20-25 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and liquid is absorbed.
10. Gently stir in the shrimp, cover, and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes until the shrimp are opaque and cooked through.
11. Remove the bay leaves before serving.
12. Garnish with sliced green onions and chopped fresh parsley.

Serving Suggestions:
Pair this Jambalaya with cornbread or a simple green salad for a complete meal. Enjoy the rich, flavorful goodness that brings a taste of the South to your table!