Name: Authentic Jambalaya Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: Cajun
Ingredients: 9-10 Shrimps, peeled and deveined; 10 ounces Sausage, smoked or regular; 1 lb Boneless chicken, diced; 2 ribs Celery, chopped; 1 large Onion, chopped; 2 Green onions, chopped; 3-4 cloves Garlic, minced; 2 cups Long-grain white rice, washed and uncooked; 3-4 cups Chicken or vegetable broth, low sodium; 1 can Crushed tomatoes (14 or 15 oz.); 2 tablespoons Tomato paste; 1 teaspoon Dried Thyme; 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning; 1 teaspoon Oregano; Pinch Salt and pepper to taste; Cooking oil (about 8 tablespoons total, divided)

Jump to Recipe· 3.9 from 45 reviews

If you have ever wanted to bring the soul of Louisiana right into your kitchen, this Authentic Jambalaya Recipe is your golden ticket. Bursting with bold Cajun flavors, tender chicken, juicy shrimp, smoky sausage, and a perfectly spiced rice base, it captures the heart and heat of classic Southern cooking. Every spoonful tells a story of comfort and celebration, making this dish a true crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for family dinners or impressing friends on a weekend feast.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a white pan filled with a layered dish starting with a base of orange-colored rice mixed with small bits of vegetables like celery and red peppers. On top of the rice, there are several large, browned shrimp with a slightly charred texture and a curved shape, showing a golden-brown color with visible seasoning. Around the shrimp, there are slices of browned sausage, dark red and glossy, some showing grill marks. The dish is sprinkled with green onion pieces adding small bright green accents across the surface. The pan sits on a white marbled surface and is surrounded by a pink cloth. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

This Authentic Jambalaya Recipe shines because of its simple yet essential ingredients, each adding a splash of flavor, texture, or color that builds layers of deliciousness. From savory proteins to aromatic vegetables and spices, everything works harmoniously to create that irresistible jambalaya taste.

2 cups Long-grain white rice washed and uncooked: The heart of the dish, it absorbs all the spicy, smoky flavors perfectly without turning mushy.
9-10 Shrimps peeled and deveined: Tender and sweet, shrimp add a lovely seafood touch that contrasts beautifully with the rich sausage.
10 ounces Sausage smoked or regular: Choose smoked for extra depth; its fat renders down adding smoky warmth to the jambalaya.
1 lb Boneless chicken diced: Chicken adds hearty protein and soaks up those Cajun spices wonderfully.
2 ribs Celery chopped: Provides a subtle crunch and fresh aroma that balances the richness.
1 large Onion chopped: Sweet yet pungent, it forms an essential aromatics base along with garlic.
2 Green onion chopped: Used as a garnish, they bring a fresh, mild bite and vibrant green color.
1 can Crushed tomatoes 14 or 15 oz.: Adds acidity and richness, giving the jambalaya its signature reddish hue.
2 tablespoon Tomato paste: Concentrated tomato flavor that deepens the saucy base.
3-4 cloves Garlic minced: A must-have aromatic that adds pungency and warmth.
1 teaspoon Dried Thyme: Earthy herb notes that complement the meats and vegetables perfectly.
2 tbsp Cajun seasoning: The soul of the dish, providing the fiery, smoky spice that defines jambalaya.
1 teaspoon Oregano: Adds a little herbal brightness in the spice mix.
3-4 cups Chicken or vegetable broth low sodium: Essential for moist cooking and infusing the rice with flavor.
Pinch Salt and pepper to taste: Balances and enhances the overall seasoning.
Cooking oil: Needed for sautéing the proteins and vegetables to perfection.

How to Make Authentic Jambalaya Recipe

Step 1: Seasoning the Proteins

Start by combining the Cajun seasoning, dried thyme, oregano, salt, and pepper into a flavorful spice mix. This blend is your ticket to that complex, authentic flavor profile. Toss the diced chicken with half a tablespoon of this seasoning, and the shrimp with a teaspoon, letting the spices cling to each piece for a few minutes. This step is crucial as it ensures every bite is packed with that signature Cajun heat and aroma.

Step 2: Cooking the Chicken, Sausage, and Shrimp

Heat 3 tablespoons of oil in a heavy pan over medium heat and brown the chicken on all sides until golden, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove the chicken, then sauté the shrimp briefly for 2 minutes each side—just until opaque and flavorful—and set it aside as well. Next, add a bit of oil and brown your sausage slices until they get that beautiful caramelized crust. Each protein needs to be cooked just right to build layers of smoky, meaty goodness that will later combine with the rice.

Step 3: Building the Flavor Base

With proteins resting, add 4-5 tablespoons of oil to the pan and sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic until their fragrance fills your kitchen, roughly 1 minute. Stir in tomato paste and crushed tomatoes, cooking for about 3-4 minutes to reduce excess moisture. This reduction step helps avoid mushy rice later and enriches the dish with depth and body.

Step 4: Cooking the Rice with Seasonings

Now add the remaining seasoning mix, rinsed rice, chopped celery, and broth to the pan. Stir these ingredients to combine everything evenly. Cover the pot, cooking over medium heat for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Keep an eye on the moisture level—add more broth or water if necessary. The goal here is tender, fluffy rice that’s fully infused with all those marvelous flavors.

Step 5: Combining Everything

Once the rice is cooked through, gently fold in the browned chicken, shrimp, and sausage. This final step lets the flavors meld together and heats the proteins back through without overcooking. Finish with chopped green onions for a fresh, colorful garnish. Your Authentic Jambalaya Recipe is now ready to bring that New Orleans charm to your table!

How to Serve Authentic Jambalaya Recipe

A white heart-shaped bowl filled with three large grilled shrimp on top, sitting over orange-red cooked rice mixed with small pieces of browned sausage, chicken chunks, and garnished with small green onion slices. Behind the bowl is a light pink pan filled with the same dish, showing similar shrimp, sausage slices, and rice with green onion pieces. The background has a white marbled surface and a gray patterned cloth under the bowl, with a pink cloth and two stacked white plates holding a blue spoon and fork to the side. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

A sprinkle of fresh chopped green onions adds a pop of color and a mild, fresh crunch that complements the rich, spicy jambalaya. For some extra flair, consider a dash of hot sauce or a squeeze of lemon juice to brighten the plate. These small touches take the dish from delicious to unforgettable.

Side Dishes

Jambalaya is wonderfully hearty on its own, but pairing it with a crisp green salad or buttery cornbread provides a nice contrast. An icy glass of sweet tea or a light beer also complements the spices perfectly, rounding out the meal with refreshing balance.

Creative Ways to Present

For a festive touch, serve the jambalaya in individual cast-iron skillets or brightly colored bowls, garnished with fresh parsley or green onions. If you want to wow guests, consider adding a dollop of Creole remoulade or a sprinkle of shredded cheese on top for added richness. Presentation can make the dish feel even more special and inviting.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover jambalaya tastes fantastic the next day as the flavors deepen overnight. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Before sealing, let it cool to room temperature to maintain moisture and avoid sogginess.

Freezing

This Authentic Jambalaya Recipe freezes beautifully, making it a perfect meal prep option. Cool completely, then transfer to freezer-safe containers or bags. Freeze for up to 3 months, ensuring maximum freshness and flavor retention for busy days ahead.

Reheating

Reheat jambalaya gently on the stovetop with a splash of broth or water to revive the rice’s fluffiness. Alternatively, microwave in short bursts, stirring in between, until warmed through. Avoid overheating to keep the shrimp tender and the chicken juicy.

FAQs

Can I use other types of sausage for this jambalaya?

Absolutely! While smoked Andouille sausage is traditional, you can substitute with kielbasa, chorizo, or any smoky sausage you enjoy. Just make sure it has enough fat and seasoning to infuse flavor into the dish.

Is it necessary to wash the rice before cooking?

Yes, rinsing the rice removes excess starch, which helps prevent it from becoming gummy during cooking. Clean, fluffy grains are essential for the perfect jambalaya texture.

Can I make this dish vegetarian or vegan?

You can! Replace the chicken, shrimp, and sausage with hearty veggies like mushrooms, bell peppers, and smoked tofu. Use vegetable broth and adjust seasoning to maintain that bold jambalaya character.

How spicy is the Authentic Jambalaya Recipe?

The heat level depends on the Cajun seasoning used. You can adjust the spice by adding more or less Cajun seasoning according to your taste, or serve with mild sides to balance the heat.

What type of broth works best for the recipe?

Chicken broth is traditional and adds a savory depth, but vegetable broth is a great alternative for lighter flavor or vegetarian versions. Low sodium broth is recommended to control the saltiness.

Final Thoughts

If you’re craving a bowl of comfort that bursts with bold, authentic flavors, this Authentic Jambalaya Recipe is a must-try. Each step invites you to savor the soulful harmony of Cajun spices and fresh ingredients that make this dish truly unforgettable. So grab your skillet, turn up the heat, and bring a little taste of Louisiana right to your home kitchen—you’re going to love it!