Forgotten Jambalaya

Short Description
Forgotten Jambalaya is a delicious, one-pot dish that combines seasoned chicken, sausage, and shrimp in a flavorful tomato-based sauce. This slow-cooked recipe makes for an easy, comforting meal, full of bold flavors and served over hot, fluffy rice. Perfect for busy days, it’s a set-it-and-forget-it dish that’s sure to please!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This jambalaya is packed with a perfect balance of savory meats, tender shrimp, and a burst of spices. The slow cooker does all the work for you, melding the flavors together while you go about your day. The combination of smoked sausage, chicken, and shrimp offers a variety of textures and tastes, while the rich tomato sauce brings it all together. Paired with rice, this dish is hearty and satisfying—ideal for feeding a crowd or meal prepping for the week.

Ingredients

• 1 can (14-1/2 ounces) diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1 can (14-1/2 ounces) beef or chicken broth
• 1 can (6 ounces) tomato paste
• 3 celery ribs, chopped
• 2 medium green peppers, chopped
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 5 garlic cloves, minced
• 3 teaspoons dried parsley flakes
• 2 teaspoons dried basil
• 1-1/2 teaspoons dried oregano
• 1-1/4 teaspoons salt
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon hot pepper sauce
• 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 1 pound smoked sausage, halved and cut into 1/4-inch slices
• 1/2 pound uncooked shrimp (31-40 per pound), peeled and deveined
• Hot cooked rice

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. In a 5-quart slow cooker, combine the diced tomatoes, broth, and tomato paste. Stir in the chopped celery, green peppers, onion, garlic, and all the seasonings, including parsley, basil, oregano, salt, cayenne pepper, and hot pepper sauce.
2. Add the chicken cubes and smoked sausage slices to the slow cooker, stirring to combine.
3. Cover and cook on low for 4-6 hours, or until the chicken is no longer pink and cooked through.
4. Stir in the shrimp and cover. Cook for an additional 15-30 minutes, or until the shrimp turn pink and are fully cooked.
5. Serve the jambalaya over hot cooked rice.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6
• Total Time: 4.5 to 6.5 hours
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 4-6 hours in the slow cooker

Variations

• Vegetarian Version: Replace the chicken, sausage, and shrimp with plant-based alternatives like tempeh, tofu, or a variety of beans for a vegetarian jambalaya.
• Spicy: Add more cayenne pepper or toss in some diced jalapeños to kick up the heat.
• Different Proteins: You can substitute the chicken with turkey, or use andouille sausage for an extra smoky flavor.
• Seafood Swap: If shrimp isn’t your thing, feel free to use other seafood like scallops or a combination of fish.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Leftover jambalaya can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: For longer storage, freeze the jambalaya in a sealed container for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• Reheating: Reheat in a microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water or broth to loosen it up, as the rice may absorb moisture while stored.

FAQs

1. Can I use pre-cooked sausage?

Yes, if you’re using pre-cooked sausage, add it toward the end of the cooking time, about 1 hour before adding the shrimp.

2. Can I make this dish in a regular pot instead of a slow cooker?

Yes, you can make this dish on the stovetop. Combine all ingredients in a large pot, bring it to a boil, then simmer for about 45 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through. Add shrimp near the end and cook until pink.

3. Can I add other vegetables to this jambalaya?

Absolutely! You can add more vegetables such as okra, peas, or carrots to enhance the flavor and texture of the dish.

4. How can I make this jambalaya milder?

Reduce the amount of cayenne pepper and omit the hot pepper sauce for a less spicy version of the dish.

5. Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just ensure they’re thawed before adding them to the slow cooker to avoid excess water in the dish.

6. Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, you can use brown rice, though the cooking time will differ. Be sure to cook the rice separately and add it just before serving, as it may take longer to cook than white rice.

7. Can I double the recipe for a larger crowd?

Yes, simply double the ingredients and use a larger slow cooker. Make sure to adjust the cooking time if needed, checking that the chicken is fully cooked.

8. Can I cook this on high heat instead of low?

Yes, you can cook the jambalaya on high heat for 2-3 hours, but be sure to check that the chicken is cooked thoroughly before adding the shrimp.

9. How do I know when the shrimp are done?

Shrimp turn a pink color when cooked and should be opaque and firm to the touch. Avoid overcooking them to keep them tender.

10. Can I skip the rice?

Yes, if you’re following a low-carb or grain-free diet, you can enjoy the jambalaya without rice or substitute cauliflower rice for a lower-carb option.

Conclusion

Forgotten Jambalaya is an easy and flavorful dish that brings all the classic jambalaya ingredients together in one slow-cooked, hearty meal. With juicy chicken, smoky sausage, tender shrimp, and a flavorful tomato-based sauce, this recipe is perfect for busy nights when you want something satisfying without the hassle. Just set it and forget it, and you’ll have a delicious, crowd-pleasing meal ready in no time!

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