Simple Slow Cooker Chicken Jambalaya

Name: Simple Slow Cooker Chicken Jambalaya
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 6 h
Total time: 6 h 15 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cubed; 1 cup diced onions; 1 cup diced bell peppers; 1 cup diced celery; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained; 1 cup chicken broth; 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 1 bay leaf; 1 cup long-grain rice; Salt and pepper to taste; Chopped green onions for garnish

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

A flavorful and hearty dish that brings a taste of Louisiana to your kitchen with minimal effort.

Created by

Chantel Rivers

Last updated on 2025-12-28T20:19:03.966Z

This Simple Slow Cooker Chicken Jambalaya is a delicious and comforting meal that requires minimal prep time. Just throw everything in the slow cooker and let it do the work!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich, savory flavors with every bite
Minimal effort for maximum flavor
Perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep

      

The Essence of Jambalaya

Jambalaya is a classic dish that hails from Louisiana, blending influences from Spanish, French, and African cuisines. This one-pot meal is known for its vibrant flavors, colorful ingredients, and hearty nature. Traditionally, jambalaya features a variety of proteins and vegetables, all simmered together with rice and spices, creating a dish that is both comforting and satisfying.

The beauty of jambalaya lies in its versatility. You can customize it with different proteins like shrimp, sausage, or even vegetarian options. This makes it an excellent choice for families with varying tastes or dietary preferences. With our simple slow cooker version, you get all the rich, authentic flavors of traditional jambalaya without spending hours in the kitchen.

Slow Cooker Convenience

Using a slow cooker transforms the preparation of jambalaya into a hassle-free experience. Simply combine your ingredients in the pot, set it, and forget it! This method allows the flavors to meld beautifully as the dish cooks low and slow, resulting in tender chicken and perfectly cooked rice every time.

For busy weeknights or meal prepping, this slow cooker jambalaya is a game-changer. You can prepare it in the morning, and by dinner time, you’ll have a delicious, home-cooked meal waiting for you. Plus, the leftovers are fantastic, making it an ideal dish for lunch the next day.

Perfect Pairings

To elevate your jambalaya experience, consider pairing it with a fresh green salad or some crusty bread. A simple side salad with a light vinaigrette can balance the richness of the dish, while bread is perfect for soaking up every last bit of the flavorful sauce.

For beverages, a crisp white wine or an ice-cold lemonade complements the spices beautifully. If you prefer something non-alcoholic, a sweet tea is a traditional Southern choice that pairs wonderfully with this hearty meal.

Ingredients

For the Jambalaya

1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cubed
1 cup diced onions
1 cup diced bell peppers
1 cup diced celery
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
1 cup chicken broth
1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 bay leaf
1 cup long-grain rice
Salt and pepper to taste
Chopped green onions for garnish

Mix all ingredients thoroughly before cooking.

Instructions

Prepare the Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the cubed chicken, onions, bell peppers, celery, garlic, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, Cajun seasoning, thyme, and bay leaf. Stir until well mixed.

Add Rice

Add the rice to the mixture and stir again to ensure the rice is evenly distributed.

Cook in Slow Cooker

Transfer the mixture to the slow cooker, cover, and cook on low for 6 hours or until the chicken is cooked through and the rice is tender.

Serve

Remove the bay leaf, season with salt and pepper to taste, and serve hot, garnished with chopped green onions.

Enjoy your homemade jambalaya!

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you find yourself with leftovers, you're in luck! This jambalaya stores well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. The flavors continue to develop, making it even more delicious the next day.

When reheating, you can use the microwave or stovetop. If the rice seems dry, add a splash of chicken broth or water to bring back its moisture. Heat until warmed through, and your meal will taste just as good as when it was first made.

Customization Ideas

Feel free to experiment with this recipe by adding your favorite vegetables. Corn, peas, or okra can enhance the dish's texture and flavor. You might also consider adding some spicy elements, like diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce, to kick up the heat.

For a heartier version, you can introduce andouille sausage alongside the chicken. This classic addition gives a smoky flavor that complements the spices beautifully and adds another layer of richness to the dish.

Nutritional Information

This simple slow cooker jambalaya is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. Chicken thighs provide a good source of protein, while the vegetables add essential vitamins and minerals. The incorporation of rice offers carbohydrates for energy, making this dish well-rounded.

If you're looking to make it a bit lighter, you can substitute brown rice for white rice. Brown rice has more fiber, which can aid digestion and keep you feeling full longer. Just keep in mind that it may require a longer cooking time.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, but you'll need to adjust the cooking time as brown rice takes longer to cook.

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, all the ingredients are gluten-free. Just ensure your Cajun seasoning is gluten-free.

→ Can I prepare this dish in advance?

Absolutely! You can prepare the ingredients a day ahead and store them in the refrigerator until you're ready to cook.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to a month.