Jambalaya with Smoked Sausage and Chicken

Jambalaya is a classic Louisiana Creole dish that combines rice with an array of flavorful ingredients like sausage, chicken, vegetables, and spices. It’s a hearty and satisfying meal that brings a taste of Southern cuisine to your table.

Ingredients:
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 pound smoked sausage, sliced
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 large onion, diced
– 1 bell pepper, diced
– 2 celery stalks, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 1/2 cups long-grain rice
– 2 bay leaves
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 green onions, chopped (optional, for garnish)
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
– Add the smoked sausage, and cook until browned. Remove the sausage from the skillet and set aside.

2. In the same skillet, add the chicken pieces.
– Cook until the chicken is browned on all sides. Remove and set aside with the sausage.

3. Add the diced onion, bell pepper, and celery to the skillet.
– Sauté until the vegetables are tender, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute.

4. Pour in the can of diced tomatoes (with juices).
– Then add the dried thyme, oregano, paprika, and cayenne pepper. Stir to combine the spices with the vegetables.

5. Return the sausage and chicken to the skillet.
– Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil.

6. Add the rice and bay leaves to the skillet.
– Stir well and reduce the heat to a simmer. Cover and cook for about 25-30 minutes, or until the rice is fully cooked and has absorbed the liquid.

7. Season the jambalaya with salt and pepper to taste.
– Remove the bay leaves before serving.

8. For extra flavor and presentation, garnish with chopped green onions and fresh parsley.

Serving Suggestions:
– Serve your jambalaya hot and enjoy it with a slice of crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal.

This hearty and delicious Jambalaya with Smoked Sausage and Chicken combines the richness of smoked sausage and tender chicken with a medley of vegetables and spices, creating a perfect dish for family dinners or gatherings.