Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes. I often prep the sausage and chop the vegetables in the morning. Then when dinner time comes, I finish the recipe quickly. It keeps the flavor fresh and saves time later.

Is andouille required?

No. Andouille brings a distinct smoky note. If you do not have andouille, use another smoked sausage or even chorizo for a different but lovely flavor.

My rice is sometimes mushy. What did I do wrong?

Mushy rice often comes from too much stirring, too much liquid, or cooking at too high a heat. Use the right rice amount, keep the heat low once covered, and resist the urge to lift the lid frequently.

Can I make this gluten free?

Yes. The recipe is naturally gluten free if you use gluten-free sausage and check the Cajun seasoning label.

It depends on your seasoning. The base is warm but not fiery. Add more Cajun seasoning or hot sauce for a bolder kick.

Easy Authentic Cajun Jambalaya 2026

Name: New Orleans Weeknight Jambalaya
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Cajun
Ingredients: 1 pound andouille sausage, sliced; 1 pound chicken, cut into pieces; 1 onion, diced; 1 bell pepper, diced; 2 celery stalks, diced; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes; 3 cups chicken broth; 2 cups long-grain rice; 2 teaspoons Cajun seasoning; 1 teaspoon thyme; 1 bay leaf; Salt and pepper to taste; Green onions and parsley for garnish

Description

A quick and comforting dish filled with smoked sausage, chicken, and flavorful rice, perfect for busy families. This jambalaya captures the essence of New Orleans in a simple, satisfying bowl.

Ingredients

1 pound andouille sausage, sliced
1 pound chicken, cut into pieces
1 onion, diced
1 bell pepper, diced
2 celery stalks, diced
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
3 cups chicken broth
2 cups long-grain rice
2 teaspoons Cajun seasoning
1 teaspoon thyme
1 bay leaf
Salt and pepper to taste
Green onions and parsley for garnish

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Heat a large pot over medium heat. Add the sausage and cook until browned. Remove and set aside.
Add chicken and cook until browned on all sides. Remove and set aside.
Add onion, bell pepper, celery, and garlic to the pot. Sauté until softened, about 5 to 7 minutes.
Stir in diced tomatoes, chicken broth, rice, Cajun seasoning, thyme, bay leaf, and cooked sausage and chicken. Scrape up browned bits from the bottom of the pot.
Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 20-25 minutes until the rice is cooked.
Remove bay leaf, season with salt and pepper, and garnish with green onions and parsley before serving.

Notes

For freshness, use fresh parsley and thyme if available. This dish can be adapted with leftover ingredients or made vegetarian with substitutions.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Cooking
Cuisine: Cajun