Spicy Chicken Shrimp Jambalaya

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If you’re looking for a one-pan dinner that’s bursting with bold, zesty flavors, this Spicy Chicken Shrimp Jambalaya is the dish for you. It’s a soulful Southern classic with a fiery kick that brings together tender chicken, succulent shrimp, spicy andouille sausage, and vibrant bell peppers all simmered in a rich, seasoned rice base.

Perfect for a cozy night in or for entertaining a crowd, this dish captures the heart of Creole cooking. With every spoonful, you get a taste of smoky, savory, and spicy goodness that warms you from the inside out. And the best part? It’s a complete meal all in one pot.

Why You’ll Love This Spicy Chicken Shrimp Jambalaya

This dish is a flavor powerhouse. Whether you’re a fan of spicy foods or just love hearty comfort meals, this jambalaya delivers on every level. It’s packed with protein, loaded with vegetables, and spiced just right. It’s also easily customizable, allowing you to dial up the heat or swap out proteins depending on what you have.

Plus, it comes together in just one pan, making cleanup a breeze. It’s ideal for busy weeknights when you want something delicious and satisfying without a mountain of dishes afterward.

What Kind of Sausage Works Best for Jambalaya?

For authentic flavor, andouille sausage is the top choice. It brings a smoky heat that pairs beautifully with the chicken and shrimp. If you can’t find andouille, look for any smoked sausage with a bit of spice. Chorizo or kielbasa can work in a pinch, though the flavor profile will shift slightly. Just avoid sweet sausages, as they won’t complement the spice-forward flavors of jambalaya.

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Ingredients for the Spicy Chicken Shrimp Jambalaya

Each ingredient in this jambalaya recipe brings a crucial layer of flavor and texture to the dish:

• Chicken thighs – Juicy and flavorful, they hold up better than breasts during long simmering.
• Shrimp – Adds a briny, sweet contrast to the smoky sausage.
• Andouille sausage – Infuses the dish with deep, smoky spice.
• Bell peppers (red and green) – Provide sweetness, crunch, and vibrant color.
• Onion – Builds the savory base of flavor.
• Celery – Part of the Cajun holy trinity; essential for aroma and texture.
• Garlic – Delivers bold depth and fragrance.
• Cajun seasoning – The spice backbone of the dish.
• Paprika – Adds smoky richness and color.
• Diced tomatoes – Adds acidity and balances the richness.
• Chicken broth – Infuses the rice with savory depth.
• Long grain rice – Absorbs all the rich, seasoned flavors.
• Green onions & parsley – Fresh finishing touches that brighten the dish.

How To Make the Spicy Chicken Shrimp Jambalaya

Step 1: Sear the Meats

Start by browning the sausage in a large skillet or Dutch oven. Once the edges are crisp, remove and set aside. Then, sear the seasoned chicken thighs until golden. This step builds a rich foundation of flavor.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

In the same pan, sauté diced onions, bell peppers, celery, and garlic. Scrape up the browned bits from the bottom—they add incredible depth.

Step 3: Season and Simmer

Stir in Cajun seasoning, paprika, and diced tomatoes. Return the sausage and chicken to the pan. Pour in the chicken broth and bring everything to a simmer.

Step 4: Add the Rice

Stir in long grain rice. Cover and cook on low until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed—about 20-25 minutes.

Step 5: Cook the Shrimp

Nestle the shrimp into the hot jambalaya during the last 5-7 minutes of cooking. They’ll steam to perfection in the flavorful steam.

Step 6: Finish and Serve

Sprinkle with chopped green onions and parsley before serving. Adjust spice with extra Cajun seasoning or hot sauce if desired.

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Serving and Storing Spicy Chicken Shrimp Jambalaya

This hearty one-pot meal serves up to 6 people generously. It’s perfect for family dinners, casual gatherings, or weekly meal prep. Each serving is loaded with protein and bold flavor, so a little goes a long way.

To store, let the jambalaya cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers. It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. You can also freeze it for up to 2 months; just thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.

What to Serve With Spicy Chicken Shrimp Jambalaya?

While this dish is already a complete meal, adding a little something on the side can really round it out. Here are some great pairings:

Cornbread

A slice of warm, slightly sweet cornbread complements the spicy richness of the jambalaya.

Garlic Bread

Crispy and buttery garlic bread is great for soaking up every bit of sauce.

Simple Garden Salad

A light salad with vinaigrette helps cut through the bold spices.

Sauteed Greens

Try collard greens, kale, or spinach for a nutritious balance.

Fried Okra

For a true Southern experience, serve with a side of crispy fried okra.

Coleslaw

Creamy coleslaw adds a refreshing crunch and cool contrast.

Pickled Vegetables

Tangy pickled onions or cucumbers give a sharp contrast to the savory dish.

Grilled Corn

Smoky and sweet, grilled corn on the cob pairs beautifully with jambalaya.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make jambalaya ahead of time?
Yes, jambalaya is actually even better the next day as the flavors deepen. Prepare it fully, let it cool, and store in the fridge. Reheat gently with a splash of broth to loosen the rice.

Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?
Absolutely. While thighs provide more flavor and stay moist, chicken breasts can be used if preferred. Just avoid overcooking them to prevent dryness.

How spicy is this jambalaya?
It has a noticeable kick but isn’t overwhelming. You can adjust the heat level by increasing or decreasing the Cajun seasoning and paprika, or adding hot sauce at the end.

Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, as long as your sausage and broth are certified gluten-free, this jambalaya is naturally free of gluten.

Can I substitute the shrimp with something else?
Yes! You can swap shrimp for more chicken, sausage, or even a firm white fish like cod. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Save This Pin For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time.
And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you go spicier or keep it mild? Try a different kind of sausage or maybe even add some okra?

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too, let’s help each other cook smarter.

Check out more flavor-packed meals from my Life With Livia Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/dadaking0065/

Conclusion

Spicy Chicken Shrimp Jambalaya is the kind of dish that never disappoints. It’s hearty, full of bold flavors, and brings a little Southern magic to your table with every bite. Whether you’re feeding a family or meal prepping for the week, it’s an easy go-to that delivers every time.

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