Looking for a comforting, one-pot dinner recipe that’s packed with bold flavors? This crockpot jambalaya recipe is your answer! Loaded with tender chicken, smoky andouille sausage, succulent shrimp, and fresh vegetables, all simmered in a rich and spicy Cajun sauce—this dish brings the taste of Louisiana straight to your kitchen. Perfect for a busy weeknight or a casual gathering, this slow-cooked jambalaya is easy to prepare and sure to impress. Let your slow cooker do the work while you enjoy a delicious and satisfying meal!

⭐ Why You’ll Love This Crockpot Jambalaya Recipe

Effortless Cooking: Toss everything into the crockpot and let it do the work.
Bold Cajun Flavors: Packed with savory spices and smoky sausage for an authentic taste.
One-Pot Wonder: Less cleanup with everything cooking together in the slow cooker.
Customizable Spice Level: Easily adjust the heat to your preference.

📋 Ingredients for Crockpot Jambalaya

You’ll need simple, pantry-friendly ingredients to create this savory, slow-cooked masterpiece:

1 lb chicken breast – Boneless and skinless, cut into bite-sized pieces.
12 oz andouille sausage – Sliced for a smoky, spicy kick.
1 cup uncooked long-grain rice – Absorbs all the delicious flavors as it cooks.
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes – Adds richness to the base.
1 small onion – Diced for aromatic flavor.
1 red bell pepper – Chopped for sweetness and texture.
2 celery stalks – Sliced for a classic jambalaya crunch.
3 cups chicken broth – Provides moisture and a savory depth of flavor.
2 tablespoons tomato paste – Intensifies the sauce’s richness.
1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning – Adjust to your desired spice level.
½ teaspoon dried thyme – For that classic herbal note.
½ teaspoon dried oregano – Complements the bold spices.
¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional) – For extra heat.
8 oz raw shrimp – Peeled and deveined, added at the end for a perfect finish.

🥘 How to Make Crockpot Jambalaya

1: Prep & Combine Ingredients

Add the chicken, sausage, diced tomatoes, onion, bell pepper, celery, chicken broth, tomato paste, Cajun seasoning, thyme, oregano, and cayenne pepper to the crockpot.
Stir to combine everything evenly.

2: Slow Cook

Cover and cook on LOW for 7-8 hours or HIGH for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is tender and the flavors meld together.

3: Add Rice & Shrimp

One hour before the cooking time ends, stir in the uncooked rice.
In the last 15 minutes, add the shrimp. Let it cook until pink and fully cooked through.

4: Serve & Enjoy

Once everything is cooked, give the jambalaya a final stir.
Serve hot and garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

🍴 Serving Suggestions for Crockpot Jambalaya

This crockpot jambalaya recipe is a hearty and satisfying dish on its own, but it pairs beautifully with:

Crusty Bread – Perfect for soaking up the flavorful sauce.
Green Salad – A light, refreshing side balances the rich Cajun spices.
Cornbread – A Southern classic to complement the savory jambalaya.

🥡 Storage & Reheating Tips

Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freeze: Jambalaya freezes well! Allow it to cool completely, then freeze in a sealed container for up to 2 months.

Reheat: Warm gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave. If the rice absorbs too much liquid, add a splash of chicken broth when reheating.

🔄 Recipe Variations & Substitutions

Make It Spicier: Add more cayenne pepper or a splash of hot sauce.
Vegetarian Version: Swap the chicken, sausage, and shrimp for mushrooms, zucchini, and chickpeas. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
Different Protein: Try smoked sausage, chorizo, or even turkey sausage.
Brown Rice Option: Use brown rice instead of white, but increase the cooking time by 30-40 minutes.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes! Add the frozen shrimp in the last 20 minutes of cooking until fully thawed and pink.

2. What’s the best sausage for jambalaya?
Andouille sausage is the traditional choice for authentic Cajun flavor, but smoked sausage or chorizo works too.

3. Can I cook the rice separately?
Absolutely! If you prefer, cook the rice separately and stir it into the jambalaya just before serving.

4. How do I prevent mushy rice?
Add the uncooked rice one hour before the jambalaya finishes cooking to ensure perfectly tender grains.

More Delicious and Easy Dinner Recipes You’ll Love

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🥄 Make This Easy Crockpot Jambalaya Tonight!

This crockpot jambalaya recipe delivers all the rich, smoky, and spicy flavors of a classic Cajun dish—without the hassle. It’s a no-fuss, one-pot dinner recipe perfect for busy weeknights or weekend comfort food.

Give it a try, and bring a taste of Louisiana to your dinner table! For more easy dinner recipes, visit Lela Foodie.