Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes. I often prep it in the morning before the girls wake up, then finish it right before dinner. Store the prepped ingredients separately and combine them when you start to cook. The rice is best cooked fresh, but the rest keeps well.

Can I use boneless skinless chicken breasts instead of thighs?

You can. Thighs stay juicier and have more flavor, but breasts work too. Watch cook time and do not overbrown or you risk dryness. Cut breasts into even pieces so they cook uniformly.

Is this safe for kids who do not like spice?

Absolutely. Keep the Cajun seasoning light and offer hot sauce at the table. My kids love it without extra heat, and I add a dash to my own bowl.

How do I make this gluten free?

The base recipe is naturally gluten free if you use certified gluten-free sausage and broth. Check labels on processed ingredients.

Can I use leftover rotisserie chicken?

Yes. Stir in shredded rotisserie chicken in the last 5 minutes of cooking to warm through. Reduce the initial chicken cooking time if you do this.

Easy Chicken and Sausage Jambalaya 2026

Description

A comforting, one-pot meal featuring chicken, smoked sausage, and vegetables, perfect for family dinners.

Ingredients

1 pound boneless skinless chicken thighs
1 pound smoked sausage
1 onion, diced
1 bell pepper, diced
2 stalks celery, diced
1 cup rice
2 teaspoons Cajun seasoning
4 cups chicken broth
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
2 green onions, chopped
2 tablespoons oil
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons butter

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Instructions

Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat until shimmering. Add diced onion, bell pepper, and celery; sauté for about 5-7 minutes until softened.
Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
Add chicken thighs and sausage, cooking until browned.
Stir in rice, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, and Cajun seasoning.
Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes until rice is cooked.
Fluff with a fork and garnish with chopped green onions before serving.

Notes

For a lighter version, swap in cauliflower rice. Watch for the golden edges on the chicken for added flavor. Leftovers are great for stuffed peppers or fried rice.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American