Chicken and Chorizo Jambalaya Recipe – A Hearty One-Pot Comfort Dish
If you’re looking for a flavorful, hearty, and easy-to-make dinner that brings bold taste straight to your table, then Chicken and Chorizo Jambalaya Recipe is the dish for you. Jambalaya is a classic Louisiana Creole recipe that combines rice, meat, vegetables, and spices into a one-pot wonder. It’s warm, comforting, and perfect for both weeknight dinners and special gatherings.
This recipe puts a tasty twist on the traditional jambalaya by blending smoky Spanish chorizo with tender chicken. The combination creates a rich depth of flavor, while the rice soaks up all the delicious spices. The best part? It’s budget-friendly, easy to customize, and feeds the whole family.
Whether you’re new to Creole cooking or just love experimenting with bold flavors, this Chicken and Chorizo Jambalaya recipe is sure to become a favorite in your home.
Why You’ll Love This Chicken and Chorizo Jambalaya Recipe
- One-pot recipe – Less cleanup and maximum flavor.
- Budget-friendly – Uses affordable ingredients to feed a crowd.
- Customizable – Add shrimp, extra veggies, or make it spicier to suit your taste.
- Meal prep friendly – Tastes even better the next day as the flavors deepen.
Ingredients for Chicken and Chorizo Jambalaya Recipe
To make this delicious jambalaya, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 chicken breasts, diced (or thighs for extra flavor)
- 200g (7 oz) chorizo sausage, sliced
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 2 celery sticks, chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon thyme
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 can (400g/14 oz) chopped tomatoes
- 300g (1 ½ cups) long-grain rice
- 750ml (3 cups) chicken stock
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Optional: A few dashes of hot sauce for an extra spicy kick.
Step-by-Step Instructions for this Jambalaya Recipe
Step 1: Cook the chicken and chorizo
Heat the olive oil in a large, deep pan or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the diced chicken and cook until browned on all sides. Remove and set aside. Next, add the chorizo slices and cook until they release their oils and turn slightly crisp. Remove and set aside with the chicken.
Step 2: Sauté the vegetables
In the same pan, add the onion, peppers, and celery. Cook for about 5 minutes until softened. Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Step 3: Add the spices
Sprinkle in the smoked paprika, oregano, cayenne pepper, thyme, and bay leaves. Stir well to coat the vegetables in the spices, releasing their aroma.
Step 4: Add tomatoes and rice
Pour in the chopped tomatoes and stir to combine. Add the rice and mix so it’s evenly coated with the spices and tomato mixture.
Step 5: Simmer with chicken stock
Pour in the chicken stock and return the chicken and chorizo to the pan. Season with salt and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and let simmer for about 25–30 minutes, stirring occasionally. The rice should absorb the liquid and become tender.
Step 6: Finish and serve
Once the rice is cooked and the flavors have blended, remove from heat. Discard the bay leaves, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve hot.
Cooking Tips for the Perfect Jambalaya
- Use chicken thighs instead of breasts for extra flavor and tenderness.
- Don’t over-stir the rice while cooking—this helps avoid mushiness.
- Adjust spice levels by adding more cayenne or hot sauce.
- Meal prep tip – Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. It freezes well, too!
- Add variety – You can add shrimp or sausage to make it even heartier.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes! In fact, jambalaya often tastes even better the next day after the flavors have melded together.
Q: Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
You can, but brown rice takes longer to cook and may require extra stock.
Q: How spicy is this jambalaya?
The heat level depends on the chorizo and how much cayenne you use. If you prefer mild dishes, start with less and adjust as needed.
Q: Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Yes! Simply skip the chicken and chorizo, and add extra vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or okra.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approx.)
- Calories: 420
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fat: 15g
- Fiber: 5g
(Values may vary depending on ingredient brands used)
Final Thoughts For This Authentic Chicken & Chorizo Jambalaya Recipe
This Chicken and Chorizo Jambalaya recipe is the ultimate comfort food. It’s hearty, smoky, and loaded with flavor—perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or meal prep. By combining simple ingredients in one pot, you can create a satisfying dish that feels gourmet without the fuss.
If you loved this recipe, be sure to check out my other budget-friendly recipes here: Budget-Friendly Recipes.