Chicken and chorizo jambalaya is a delicious and filling dish with flavors inspired by Louisiana’s rich food traditions. It’s loaded with smoky chorizo, tender chicken, tasty spices, and colorful vegetables, all cooked together in one pot. This recipe is perfect for family dinners or special occasions. Whether you’re new to jambalaya or looking for a quick chicken and chorizo recipe, this guide has you covered.
What Is Jambalaya?
Jambalaya is a Creole dish made by cooking rice, meat, vegetables, and spices all together in one pot. There are many versions, like prawn and chorizo jambalaya or chicken and chorizo paella, but this recipe sticks to a classic combination of chicken and chorizo. It’s simple to make and packed with flavor, whether you’re cooking it on the stovetop or using a slow cooker.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s what you’ll need for this chicken and chorizo jambalaya:
For the Jambalaya:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 chicken breasts, diced
- 150g (5 oz) chorizo, sliced
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup (200g) long-grain rice
- 1 can (400g) diced tomatoes
- 2 ½ cups (600ml) chicken stock
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra spice)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional Add-ins:
- 150g (5 oz) prawns, peeled (for a prawn and chorizo jambalaya twist)
- Fresh parsley or spring onions for garnish
If you want to try a slow cooker version, these same ingredients will work perfectly.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or pot over medium heat.
- Add the diced chicken and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it’s lightly browned. Remove the chicken and set it aside.
Step 2: Cook the Chorizo and Veggies
- In the same pan, add the sliced chorizo and cook for 2-3 minutes until it’s crispy and releases its oils.
- Add the chopped onion, red and green peppers, and minced garlic. Cook for about 3-4 minutes until the veggies start to soften.
Step 3: Add Rice and Spices
- Stir in the rice, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, thyme, and oregano. Mix everything together and toast the rice for 1-2 minutes. This step boosts the flavor of the dish.
Step 4: Simmer the Jambalaya
- Pour in the diced tomatoes, chicken stock, and the cooked chicken you set aside. Stir well to combine.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then lower the heat to a gentle simmer. Cover the pot and let it cook for 20-25 minutes. Stir occasionally to keep the rice from sticking.
Step 5: Optional Add-Ins
- If you’re adding prawns, stir them in during the last 5 minutes of cooking. They’ll cook quickly and become tender.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
- Once the rice is fully cooked and the liquid is absorbed, remove the pot from the heat.
- Garnish with fresh parsley or chopped spring onions and serve while hot.
Tips for Success
- Brown the chicken and chorizo well: This creates a richer flavor base for your jambalaya.
- Adjust the spice level: Add more cayenne pepper or even a few sliced jalapeños if you like extra heat.
- Stick to long-grain rice: This type of rice stays fluffy and separate, which is perfect for jambalaya. Avoid sticky or short-grain rice.
- Experiment with seafood: For a fun variation, try adding prawns, scallops, or even mussels.
What to Serve with Jambalaya
Chicken and chorizo jambalaya is a complete meal on its own, but you can pair it with:
- Cornbread or crusty bread
- A fresh green salad
- Roasted vegetables or steamed green beans
Ingredient Swaps
If you’re out of something, here are some alternatives:
| Ingredient | Substitute |
|---|---|
| Chorizo | Smoked sausage or turkey sausage |
| Long-grain rice | Basmati or brown rice (adjust cooking time) |
| Chicken breasts | Chicken thighs or leftover cooked chicken |
| Bell peppers | Any color peppers or zucchini |
Common Questions
What is chicken chorizo?
Chicken chorizo is a lighter version of regular pork chorizo. It’s made with ground chicken and flavored with spices like paprika and garlic. It’s perfect for jambalaya if you’re looking for a lower-fat option.
Why use chorizo in jambalaya?
Chorizo adds a smoky and savory flavor that pairs wonderfully with the spices and rice, giving the dish its bold taste.
What does jambalaya taste like?
Jambalaya is a flavorful dish with smoky, spicy, and aromatic notes. The rice absorbs all the seasonings, making it hearty and satisfying.
Final Thoughts
This chicken and chorizo jambalaya is easy to make, packed with bold flavors, and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re trying out new chicken recipes, exploring Creole cooking, or just want a comforting one-pot meal, this jambalaya recipe will not disappoint. Try it out and enjoy the delicious mix of smoky, spicy, and savory flavors!
