Are you ready to ignite your taste buds and spice up your dinner routine? Look no further than jambalaya, a classic Creole dish that combines the bold flavors of sausage, chicken, seafood, and spices. This one-pot wonder has been a staple in Louisiana cuisine for generations, and we’re excited to share our top 18 spicy jambalaya recipes with you! From classic Creole dishes featuring shrimp and sausage, to vegetarian and low-carb twists, there’s something for everyone on this list. Whether you’re a fan of seafood, chicken, or just want a flavorful meal that’s easy to make, these jambalaya recipes are sure to become new favorites. So grab your apron, don’t be afraid to get creative with the heat level, and let’s dive into the world of spicy jambalaya!
Classic Creole Jambalaya with Shrimp and Sausage
Classic Creole Jambalaya with Shrimp and Sausage: A hearty one-pot dish that combines the flavors of Louisiana, featuring succulent shrimp and spicy sausage.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 lb smoked sausage (such as Andouille), sliced
– 2 cups uncooked white rice
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
– 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
– 2 teaspoons paprika
– 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven or pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add sausage and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from pot.
3. Add chicken to pot and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from pot.
4. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
5. Add rice, peas and carrots, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Stir well.
6. Add diced tomatoes, chicken, sausage, and shrimp to pot. Stir well.
7. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until rice is cooked.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Cajun Chicken and Sausage Jambalaya
Get ready to spice up your mealtime with this hearty and flavorful Cajun-inspired jambalaya dish, featuring chicken, sausage, and a medley of vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 lb smoked sausage (such as Andouille), sliced
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 stalks celery, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 tsp Cajun seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook sausage in a large skillet over medium-high heat until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from skillet and set aside.
2. Add chicken to the same skillet and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from skillet and set aside with sausage.
3. Add onions, celery, and garlic to the skillet and sauté until vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in diced tomatoes, Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. Bring mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
5. Add cooked chicken and sausage back into the skillet. Stir in rice and chicken broth. Simmer until liquid is absorbed and rice is tender, about 20-25 minutes.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Spicy Andouille Jambalaya with Bell Peppers
Get ready to spice up your dinner game with this hearty and flavorful jambalaya recipe, featuring spicy Andouille sausage and crunchy bell peppers.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb Andouille sausage, sliced
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), diced
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the sausage and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from pan and set aside.
3. Add the bell peppers and onion to the pan; cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
5. Stir in the rice, chicken broth, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil.
6. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is cooked.
7. Add the browned sausage back into the pan; stir to combine.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Seafood Jambalaya with Crab and Crawfish
This classic Louisiana dish combines succulent seafood with the bold flavors of jambalaya, creating a mouthwatering one-pot wonder. Perfect for a special occasion or a satisfying weeknight meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb crab legs (jumbo lump)
– 1/2 cup crawfish tails
– 1 lb andouille sausage, sliced
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 stalks celery, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
Instructions:
1. Cook sausage in a large skillet over medium-high heat, browning on both sides.
2. Add onion, celery, and garlic; cook until vegetables are tender.
3. Stir in crab legs, crawfish tails, oregano, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper.
4. Add rice and chicken broth; bring to a boil.
5. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer 20-25 minutes or until rice is cooked and liquid has been absorbed.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions and lemon wedges.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Vegetarian Jambalaya with Okra and Tomatoes
This hearty vegetarian jambalaya is a twist on the classic Louisiana dish, packed with the flavors of okra, tomatoes, and aromatic spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked brown rice
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup okra, sliced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 2 medium tomatoes, diced
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook the brown rice according to package instructions.
2. In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of oil over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent.
3. Add the minced garlic, sliced okra, diced red bell pepper, and paprika. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Add the diced tomatoes, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Simmer the jambalaya mixture for 10-15 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
6. Serve hot over cooked brown rice, garnished with fresh parsley or cilantro.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Slow Cooker Jambalaya for Easy Weeknight Meals
This classic Southern dish gets a convenient twist with this slow cooker recipe, perfect for busy weeknights. With minimal prep and hands-off cooking, you’ll have a flavorful and filling meal ready in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 lb smoked sausage, sliced
Instructions:
1. Add chopped onion, minced garlic, chicken, rice, chicken broth, diced tomatoes, thyme, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper to the slow cooker.
2. Stir in sliced sausage.
3. Cook on Low for 6-8 hours or High for 3-4 hours.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (Low) or 3-4 hours (High)
One-Pot Jambalaya with Smoked Turkey
A classic Southern dish gets a boost of flavor from smoked turkey, all cooked up in one pot for a hearty and satisfying meal. This jambalaya recipe is easy to make and perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb smoked turkey breast, diced
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, chopped
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 2 cups uncooked white rice
– 2 tsp paprika
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large Dutch oven or pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add the turkey, onion, garlic, and bell pepper; cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in the paprika, cumin, and cayenne pepper; cook for 1 minute.
4. Add the diced tomatoes, rice, salt, and pepper; stir to combine.
5. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 25-30 minutes or until the rice is cooked and liquid has been absorbed.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Creole Jambalaya with Ham and Red Beans
This classic Creole dish is a staple of Louisiana cuisine, combining the flavors of ham, red beans, and rice for a satisfying and filling meal. This recipe serves 4-6 people.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless ham, diced
– 1 lb dried red kidney beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 2 cups uncooked white rice
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 cups chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Cook the red beans in a separate pot with 4 cups of water until tender.
2. In a large skillet, heat oil over medium-high. Add the diced ham and cook until browned.
3. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Add the cooked red beans, rice, and chicken broth to the skillet. Stir well.
5. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the rice is cooked and the liquid has been absorbed.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Spicy Jambalaya with Chorizo and Shrimp
This spicy one-pot dish combines the bold flavors of chorizo, shrimp, and andouille sausage with the classic jambalaya recipe. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a lively party.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1/2 cup chorizo, sliced
– 1/2 cup andouille sausage, sliced
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 1 tsp cayenne pepper
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– Cooked white rice, for serving
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chorizo and cook until browned, about 3 minutes.
2. Add chicken, sausage, onion, garlic, bell pepper, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Cook until the meat is browned, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Add diced tomatoes and chicken broth. Stir to combine, then bring to a simmer.
4. Reduce heat to medium-low and let cook for 10-12 minutes or until the rice is tender.
5. Add shrimp and cook until pink and cooked through, about 2-3 minutes.
6. Serve hot over white rice.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Jambalaya Stuffed Peppers for a Twist
Elevate your stuffed pepper game with this flavorful fusion of jambalaya and bell peppers. This recipe combines the bold flavors of Cajun cooking with the comfort of a classic stuffed pepper.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 lb cooked jambalaya (use leftover or cook according to package instructions)
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers, removing seeds and membranes.
3. In a bowl, mix jambalaya, cheese, parsley, olive oil, paprika, salt, and pepper.
4. Stuff each bell pepper with the jambalaya mixture, filling to the top.
5. Place the stuffed peppers in a baking dish, cover with aluminum foil.
6. Bake for 30 minutes, then remove foil and bake an additional 10-15 minutes, or until peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Quick and Easy Jambalaya with Instant Pot
A classic one-pot dish from Louisiana gets a modern twist with the help of your Instant Pot! This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you need a flavorful, filling meal in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and heat the pot until it reads “HOT”.
2. Add chicken, onion, garlic, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. Cook until the chicken is browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add rice, chicken broth, and diced tomatoes. Stir well to combine.
4. Close the lid and set the valve to “SEALING”. Press the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” button and cook on high pressure for 6-7 minutes.
5. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes, then quick-release any remaining pressure.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Jambalaya Pasta with a Cajun Cream Sauce
This recipe combines the bold flavors of Louisiana’s jambalaya with creamy pasta, perfect for a twist on traditional comfort food. This spicy and savory dish is sure to become a new favorite!
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta (e.g., penne or fusilli)
– 1 lb cooked sausage (such as Andouille or kielbasa), sliced
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or scallions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, cook sausage over medium-high heat until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add onion, garlic, and bell pepper; cook until vegetables are tender, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Stir in diced tomatoes, chicken broth, Cajun seasoning, and heavy cream.
5. Combine cooked pasta with sausage mixture; season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with parsley or scallions before serving.
Cooking Time: Approximately 20-25 minutes.
Jambalaya Soup with Rice and Spicy Broth
This hearty soup combines the flavors of traditional jambalaya with a spicy kick, perfect for warming up on a chilly day. A one-pot wonder that’s easy to make and packed with protein-rich chicken and sausage.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1/2 lb smoked sausage (such as Andouille), sliced
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, chopped
– 1 can diced tomatoes with green chilies
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 cups cooked white rice (preferably day-old)
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the sausage in a large pot over medium-high heat until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the chicken, onion, garlic, and red bell pepper to the pot. Cook until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender, about 8-10 minutes.
3. Stir in the diced tomatoes with green chilies, chicken broth, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the soup has thickened slightly.
4. Serve the soup over cooked white rice, garnished with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: About 30-40 minutes
Jambalaya Skillet with Cornbread Topping
This hearty one-pot meal combines the bold flavors of Louisiana-inspired jambalaya with a crunchy cornbread topping. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or brunch gathering, this recipe serves 4-6 people.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 large onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/4 cup cornmeal
– 1/2 cup milk
– 2 tbsp butter, melted
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook chicken, onion, and garlic in a large skillet over medium-high heat until browned.
3. Add rice, water, diced tomatoes, cumin, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil; reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes or until liquid is absorbed.
4. Prepare cornbread topping: Mix cornmeal, milk, melted butter, and chopped parsley (if using). Drop by spoonfuls onto the jambalaya mixture.
5. Bake for an additional 15-20 minutes or until cornbread is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes
Low-Carb Jambalaya with Cauliflower Rice
This spicy one-pot dish is a creative twist on the classic Louisiana jambalaya, swapping traditional rice for cauliflower rice and reducing carbs without sacrificing flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup of mixed bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 1 can of diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Pulse cauliflower in a food processor until it resembles rice.
3. In a large skillet, heat 1 tbsp of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from skillet and set aside.
4. Add remaining 1 tbsp of olive oil to the skillet and sauté onion, garlic, and bell peppers until tender.
5. Add paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional minute.
6. Stir in diced tomatoes and cooked chicken.
7. Serve hot over cauliflower “rice”.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Jambalaya Gumbo with a Rich Roux Base
A classic Louisiana dish that combines the flavors of jambalaya and gumbo, this recipe is a hearty and satisfying meal for any occasion. This rich roux-based gumbo is slow-cooked to perfection, filling your kitchen with its unmistakable aroma.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups long-grain rice
– 3 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 stalks celery, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large cast-iron pot over medium heat.
2. Add onion, celery, and garlic; cook until vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Gradually whisk in flour to make roux, cooking for an additional 5 minutes.
4. Add chicken, rice, chicken broth, diced tomatoes, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
5. Reduce heat to low and simmer, uncovered, for 1 hour or until the gumbo has thickened.
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Jambalaya Fried Rice for Leftover Makeovers
Transforming leftover jambalaya into a flavorful and satisfying fried rice dish is easier than you think. This recipe combines the spicy kick of jambalaya with the comforting warmth of fried rice.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked jambalaya (cooled)
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., bell peppers, carrots, green beans)
– 2 teaspoons soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 eggs, beaten (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the diced onion and minced garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Add the mixed vegetables; cook for 2-3 minutes.
4. Add the cooked jambalaya, soy sauce, salt, and pepper; stir-fry for 2-3 minutes.
5. Push the mixture to one side of the pan. Crack in the beaten eggs (if using); scramble them until cooked through.
6. Mix the eggs with the jambalaya mixture.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Jambalaya Tacos with Spicy Creole Slaw
Elevate your taco game with this unique fusion of Louisiana flavors! This recipe combines the spicy kick of jambalaya with the crunch and freshness of a slaw, all wrapped up in a crispy taco shell.
Ingredients:
For the Jambalaya Filling:
– 1 lb cooked sausage (such as Andouille or Chorizo), sliced
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1 cup diced bell peppers
– 1 cup diced onions
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
– Salt and pepper to taste
For the Spicy Creole Slaw:
– 2 cups shredded cabbage
– 1 cup shredded carrots
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
– 2 tbsp mayonnaise
– 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
– 1 tsp Dijon mustard
– 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the sausage, rice, bell peppers, onions, garlic, oregano, and cayenne pepper in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Warm taco shells according to package instructions.
3. Assemble tacos by spooning jambalaya filling into shells.
4. Top with Spicy Creole Slaw and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Jam-packed with flavor, these 18 spicy jambalaya recipes offer a variety of twists on the classic dish. From seafood-filled options to vegetarian and low-carb versions, there’s something for everyone. Spice up your dinner routine with recipes featuring shrimp, sausage, chicken, and more. Whether you’re looking for quick weeknight meals or creative leftovers makeovers, these jambalaya recipes have got you covered.