Name: Slow Cooker Cajun Jambalaya: 5 Bold Flavors Await
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: PT-492023H18M54S
Total time: 8 h 20 min
Cuisine: Cajun
Ingredients: 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cubed; 1 pound andouille sausage, sliced; 1 can (28 ounces) diced tomatoes; 1 large onion, chopped; 2 celery stalks, thinly sliced; 1 red bell pepper, finely chopped; 2 cups chicken broth; 1 tablespoon tomato paste; ½ teaspoon dried thyme; 2 teaspoons dried oregano; 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning; ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper; 1 cup uncooked long-grain rice; 1 pound raw shrimp (large, about 13–15 count)

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Slow Cooker Cajun Jambalaya is a beloved dish that brings the vibrant flavors of Louisiana into your kitchen. This hearty recipe combines tender chicken, savory andouille sausage, and succulent shrimp, all simmered to perfection in a rich sauce. The slow-cooked method allows the flavors to meld beautifully, creating a filling meal that is sure to impress. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a family meal, this dish is an absolute crowd-pleaser!

Why You’ll Love This Slow Cooker Cajun Jambalaya

This Cajun Jambalaya recipe is perfect for so many reasons! Here are just a few:

It’s a one-pot meal that saves time on cleanup.
Easy to prepare; just load the ingredients and let the slow cooker do the work.
Flavorful and spicy, satisfying even the most adventurous palates.
Customizable with your favorite proteins or vegetables.
Great for meal prep and leftovers; it tastes even better the next day!
Perfect for family gatherings, giving everyone a taste of authentic Cajun cuisine.

With its rich flavor and comforting texture, this slow-cooked Cajun Jambalaya is a dish that everyone will love.

Ingredients for Slow Cooker Cajun Jambalaya

Gather these items:

2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cubed
1 pound andouille sausage, sliced
1 can (28 ounces) diced tomatoes
1 large onion, chopped
2 celery stalks, thinly sliced
1 red bell pepper, finely chopped
2 cups chicken broth
1 tablespoon tomato paste
½ teaspoon dried thyme
2 teaspoons dried oregano
1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
½ teaspoon cayenne pepper
1 cup uncooked long-grain rice
1 pound raw shrimp (large, about 13–15 count)

How to Make Slow Cooker Cajun Jambalaya Step-by-Step

Step 1: Load the slow cooker by placing the cubed chicken, sausage, diced tomatoes, onion, celery, bell pepper, chicken broth, tomato paste, thyme, oregano, Cajun seasoning, and cayenne pepper into the slow cooker. Stir everything together.
Step 2: Cover and cook on low for 7–8 hours or high for 3–4 hours, until the chicken is tender and the flavors are well blended.
Step 3: One hour before the end of the cooking time, stir in the uncooked rice.
Step 4: During the last 15 minutes, add the raw shrimp. Cook until the shrimp turn pink and are fully cooked through.
Step 5: Ladle into bowls and enjoy warm — a hearty one-pot Cajun classic!

Pro Tips for the Best Slow Cooker Cajun Jambalaya

Keep these in mind:

For a richer flavor, use homemade chicken stock.
Adjust the heat by adding more or less cayenne pepper to suit your taste.
Let the dish sit for a few minutes before serving to allow the rice to absorb more flavors.
This recipe is a family-friendly slow cooker Jambalaya option, perfect for kids!

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Best Ways to Serve Slow Cooker Cajun Jambalaya

Serve this easy slow cooker Jambalaya with:

Crusty French bread to soak up the delicious broth.
A side salad for a refreshing contrast.
Hot sauce on the side for those who enjoy extra spice.

How to Store and Reheat Slow Cooker Cajun Jambalaya

To store leftovers, place in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave or warm on the stove until heated through. This dish is great for meal prep and tastes even better the next day!

Frequently Asked Questions About Slow Cooker Cajun Jambalaya

What is slow cooker Jambalaya?

Slow cooker Jambalaya is a one-pot dish that combines meat, vegetables, and rice, slow-cooked to perfection. It’s a comforting meal that showcases the flavors of Cajun cuisine.

Can I make Slow Cooker Cajun Jambalaya ahead of time?

Yes! This recipe is perfect for making ahead of time. Just prepare the ingredients and store in the fridge until you’re ready to cook.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Slow Cooker Cajun Jambalaya?

To avoid mushy rice, add it near the end of the cooking time, and ensure you use the right type of rice for the best texture.

Variations of Slow Cooker Cajun Jambalaya You Can Try

Consider these variations for a twist on the traditional recipe:

Swap chicken for turkey for a lighter version.
Add more vegetables like zucchini or corn for extra nutrition.
Use a mix of seafood for a slow cooker shrimp and sausage Jambalaya.
Try a vegetarian version by omitting meat and adding beans.

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For more delicious recipes, check out our Pumpkin Cobbler or Peach Upside Down Cakes. If you’re interested in more Cajun dishes, you might enjoy our Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Beef Bites.