Slow Cooker Chicken Jambalaya – Simple, Flavorful, and Family Approved

Slow Cooker Chicken Jambalaya is that comforting, no-fuss meal that makes your home smell like a cozy southern kitchen without the chaos of standing over a hot stove. This Slow Cooker Chicken Jambalaya recipe brings together tender chunks of chicken, smoky sausage, and colorful veggies simmered in Cajun-seasoned goodness—all while you go about your day.

Whether you’re juggling work, kids, or just need dinner ready when you walk through the door, this dish is your new best friend. The slow cooker does the heavy lifting, and you get all the flavor with minimal effort. Plus, it’s hearty enough to please even the pickiest eaters at the table. It’s the kind of meal that feels fancy enough for guests but simple enough for a weeknight. So grab that slow cooker, toss everything in, and let this Slow Cooker Chicken Jambalaya bring a little Louisiana warmth into your kitchen tonight.

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What is Slow Cooker Chicken Jambalaya?

Slow Cooker Chicken Jambalaya is a spin on the classic Louisiana favorite, Jambalaya—a beloved Creole dish bursting with bold flavors, colorful ingredients, and just the right touch of heat. Traditionally, jambalaya is cooked in one pot on the stovetop, but this version takes a hands-off approach by using your slow cooker.

Think tender bites of chicken, spicy andouille sausage, bell peppers, onions, and celery all slow-cooked in a tomato-based broth that thickens beautifully as it cooks. When it’s time to serve, a scoop of warm rice gets stirred in to soak up all that flavorful sauce. It’s a meal that feels both homey and festive. And since everything cooks together, cleanup is a breeze—which is always a win in my book. If you love Cajun-style meals like Crock Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta, this one’s going to be right up your alley.

Reasons to Try Slow Cooker Chicken Jambalaya

There are so many reasons to love this Slow Cooker Chicken Jambalaya, but let’s start with the biggest one—it’s so easy. You literally toss everything into the slow cooker, set it, and walk away. By the time dinner rolls around, your kitchen smells like heaven, and all you have to do is stir in the rice. It’s also incredibly family-friendly. The spice level can be adjusted to suit everyone’s taste buds—from bold and spicy for the grown-ups to mild and flavorful for the kids.

Plus, it’s a complete meal on its own, so no need to fuss with extra sides (unless you want to). It’s also a great make-ahead dish for busy weeks—leftovers taste even better the next day! Whether you’re meal prepping or feeding a crowd, this dish never disappoints. And if you’re a fan of easy weeknight dinners, you might also enjoy my Easy Honey Garlic Sheet Pan Sausage or Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs.

Ingredients Needed to Make Slow Cooker Chicken Jambalaya

• 1 ½ lbs chicken breasts (diced into 1-inch pieces)
• 1 lb andouille sausage (sliced into ½-inch pieces)
• 1 Tbsp Cajun seasoning
• ½ onion (diced)
• 1 red bell pepper (diced into large pieces)
• 1 green bell pepper (diced into large pieces)
• 2 stalks celery (sliced)
• 2 tsp minced garlic
• 1 can crushed tomatoes (14.5 oz)
• 2 tsp dried oregano
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 3 cups cooked rice

Instructions to Make Slow Cooker Chicken Jambalaya – Step by Step

Step 1: Prep the Ingredients

Before you do anything else, take a few minutes to chop your chicken, sausage, and vegetables. Dice the chicken into bite-sized pieces so they cook evenly, and slice your andouille sausage into thick half-inch rounds for that hearty bite. Dice your onions and bell peppers—don’t worry if your chopping skills aren’t perfect; jambalaya is forgiving! The mix of red and green peppers not only adds color but a little sweetness that balances the spice.

Step 2: Load Up the Slow Cooker

Now comes the fun part—just toss it all in! Add your chicken, sausage, onion, bell peppers, celery, minced garlic, crushed tomatoes, oregano, and Cajun seasoning right into the slow cooker. Pour in the chicken broth to help everything simmer together beautifully. Give it a gentle stir to mix the seasonings and coat all those tasty ingredients.

Step 3: Let It Cook (and Let the Magic Happen)

Cover your slow cooker with the lid and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. As it cooks, your home will smell incredible—like you’ve been slow-stirring a pot of Southern goodness all day. The chicken will become tender, and the sausage will add a smoky flavor that seeps into the vegetables and sauce.

Step 4: Add the Rice

When everything’s cooked and your chicken is tender, it’s time to stir in your cooked rice. You can use white, brown, or even jasmine rice depending on what you like. Mix it in gently so the rice absorbs all that rich, tomatoey broth and thickens the jambalaya into that signature hearty consistency.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Spoon the jambalaya into bowls and serve it warm. For a little extra flair, top it with chopped parsley or a squeeze of lemon. This is the kind of dish that tastes like a hug in a bowl—spicy, smoky, and satisfying.

What to Serve with Slow Cooker Chicken Jambalaya

This meal can easily stand on its own, but if you want to round it out, consider pairing it with a crisp green salad or a side of cornbread. Garlic bread is another crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for soaking up every last bit of sauce. For a lighter option, try serving it with roasted veggies or a simple fruit salad to balance the bold Cajun flavors.

Key Tips for Making Slow Cooker Chicken Jambalaya

Use good-quality andouille sausage for the most authentic smoky flavor. If you like more spice, add a pinch of cayenne or hot sauce before serving. Don’t skip the step of stirring in cooked rice at the end—it keeps the rice from becoming mushy during cooking. Also, if your jambalaya feels too thick, add a splash of chicken broth before serving.

Storage and Reheating Tips for Slow Cooker Chicken Jambalaya

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making this a great make-ahead dish. When reheating, add a little water or broth to loosen it up and warm it on the stove or in the microwave. You can also freeze it for up to two months—just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

FAQs

Can I use shrimp in this recipe? Absolutely! Just add the shrimp during the last 30 minutes of cooking so they don’t overcook.
Can I make it spicier? Yes, add extra Cajun seasoning or a dash of hot sauce to taste.
Can I use brown rice? Definitely. Just make sure it’s cooked before adding to the slow cooker.

Final Thoughts

This Slow Cooker Chicken Jambalaya is one of those dishes that brings everyone to the table—literally. It’s easy, flavorful, and tastes like comfort in a bowl. Whether it’s a busy weekday or a lazy Sunday, this recipe makes dinner effortless and delicious. For more cozy and simple slow cooker recipes, check out my Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole or Crockpot Healthy White Chicken Chili

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