Sizzling Chicken & Chorizo Jambalaya Recipe for Spicy Souls

Bursting with rich flavors, this hearty chicken and chorizo jambalaya captures the vibrant spirit of louisiana’s culinary landscape.

Spicy sausage mingles with tender chicken pieces in a one-pot wonder that promises satisfaction.

Southern comfort meets bold seasoning through each carefully crafted bite.

Aromatic rice absorbs the robust blend of meats and vegetables, creating a symphony of taste.

Complex layers of spice dance across your palate with every forkful.

Home cooking reaches new heights when tradition and creativity merge seamlessly.

Why You’ll Love Chicken & Chorizo Jambalaya

• Spark Flavor Explosion: Dive into a zesty jambalaya that combines succulent chicken and spicy chorizo, creating a taste adventure in every bite.
• Master One-Pot Magic: Simplify your cooking with this single-pot wonder that minimizes cleanup while maximizing deliciousness for busy home cooks.
• Customize Your Comfort: Easily adjust spice levels and ingredients to suit different taste preferences, making this recipe perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.
• Nutrition-Packed Meal: Packed with protein, vegetables, and whole grains, this jambalaya offers a balanced and satisfying meal that keeps everyone full and happy.

Ingredients for Chicken & Chorizo Jambalaya

• Chicken: A lean protein that adds substantial texture and flavor to the jambalaya.
• Chorizo: A spicy Spanish sausage that brings robust and smoky taste to the dish.

• Onion, Bell Pepper, Garlic: A classic flavor base that provides depth and aromatic foundation for the jambalaya.
• Frozen Peas: A sweet and colorful vegetable that adds freshness and nutritional value.
• Diced Tomatoes: Provides moisture and tangy flavor to the overall dish.

• Rice: The main starch that absorbs all the delicious flavors of the jambalaya.
• Olive Oil: Helps to sauté ingredients and prevent sticking.
• Paprika, Thyme, Cayenne Pepper: Spices that create a complex and warm flavor profile.
• Bay Leaf: Adds a subtle herbal note to the dish.
• Salt, Pepper: Essential seasonings for balancing and enhancing the overall taste.

• Fresh Parsley: Adds a bright, fresh finish and visual appeal to the dish.

How to Make Chicken & Chorizo Jambalaya

Step 1: Prep the Protein

Brown the chicken and chorizo in a large pot over medium heat. Let the meats develop a beautiful golden crust and release their rich, spicy flavors. Once cooked, transfer the meats to a separate plate, keeping all those delicious juices intact.

Step 2: Awaken the Aromatics

• Onions
• Bell peppers
• Garlic

Sauté these vegetables until the onions become soft and translucent, filling your kitchen with mouthwatering fragrance.

Step 3: Toast the Rice and Spices

Introduce rice and spice blend into the pot, stirring gently to coat every grain. Let the rice toast lightly, releasing nutty undertones and absorbing the surrounding flavors.

Step 4: Create the Flavor Base

• Diced tomatoes
• Chicken broth

Bring the mixture to a rolling boil, then reduce heat. Cover and let simmer, allowing the rice to become tender and absorb all the incredible seasonings.

Step 5: Final Touch of Freshness

Fold in frozen peas for a pop of color and sweetness. Season with salt and pepper to elevate the overall taste profile. Remove the bay leaf before serving.

Step 6: Serve with Flair

Sprinkle fresh parsley on top for a burst of color and freshness. Serve piping hot and watch everyone’s eyes light up with excitement.

Pro Tips for Chicken & Chorizo Jambalaya

• Meat Searing Secret: Brown chicken and chorizo separately to lock in deep, rich flavors and prevent steaming instead of caramelizing.
• Rice Toasting Trick: Lightly toast rice with spices before adding liquid to enhance nutty undertones and improve overall dish complexity.
• Liquid Ratio Magic: Ensure precise chicken broth measurement for perfectly cooked, fluffy rice without becoming mushy or dry.
• Spice Level Control: Adjust cayenne pepper quantity to match personal heat tolerance while maintaining authentic jambalaya flavor profile.
• Pea Preservation Technique: Add frozen peas at the end to maintain bright color and prevent overcooking, keeping them tender and vibrant.

Variation Ideas for Chicken & Chorizo Jambalaya

• Seafood Jambalaya: Replace chicken and chorizo with shrimp, crab, and andouille sausage for a classic New Orleans-style seafood version.
• Vegetarian Power Jambalaya: Swap meats with firm tofu, black beans, and plant-based sausage, adding extra vegetables like zucchini and mushrooms for protein.
• Low-Carb Cauliflower Jambalaya: Substitute rice with cauliflower rice, keeping all original spices and meat ingredients for a lighter, keto-friendly alternative.
• Gluten-Free Adaptation: Use gluten-free chicken broth and ensure all spices are certified gluten-free, maintaining the original recipe's robust flavor profile.

Pairing Suggestions for Chicken & Chorizo Jambalaya

• Spice Up with Crisp White Wine: A zesty Sauvignon Blanc perfectly balances the jambalaya's rich, spicy flavors, cutting through the chorizo's intensity with its bright, citrusy notes.
• Refresh with Cold Beer Companion: A light, crisp Mexican lager like Modelo Especial complements the dish's spiciness, providing a cool contrast to the warm, bold jambalaya.
• Elevate with Southern Cocktail Pairing: A classic Sazerac cocktail from New Orleans matches the jambalaya's Louisiana roots, with rye whiskey and bitters enhancing the dish's complex spice profile.
• Cool Down with Fruity Sangria: A red sangria loaded with fresh citrus fruits offers a sweet and tangy counterpoint to the jambalaya's robust and spicy character, creating a delightful flavor harmony.

Storage Advice for Chicken & Chorizo Jambalaya

• Store leftovers in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking. Keep refrigerated for 3-4 days. Cool completely before sealing to prevent bacterial growth.
• Transfer jambalaya to freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. Remove excess air to prevent freezer burn. Freeze for up to 3 months. Label with date and contents.
• Place portion in microwave-safe dish. Sprinkle 2-3 tablespoons water to prevent dryness. Cover and heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through. Check internal temperature reaches 165°F.
• Pour jambalaya into skillet. Add splash of chicken broth or water. Heat over medium-low, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.

FAQs About Chicken & Chorizo Jambalaya

• What is jambalaya and where does it come from?

Jambalaya is a traditional Louisiana Creole rice dish that originated in New Orleans, combining French, Spanish, and African culinary influences. It typically includes meat, vegetables, and rice cooked together in one pot.

• Can I make this jambalaya spicier?

Yes, you can increase the heat by adding more cayenne pepper or including diced jalapeños during the vegetable sautéing stage. Some people also add hot sauce when serving for extra kick.

• Is chorizo necessary for this recipe?

While chorizo adds rich flavor, you can substitute it with andouille sausage or another spicy sausage if preferred. For a vegetarian version, use plant-based sausage or additional vegetables.

Chicken & Chorizo Jambalaya Recipe

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4.8 from 11 reviews

• Total Time: 45-52 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Spicy chicken & chorizo jambalaya brings Louisiana’s soulful culinary spirit to your dinner table. Rich layers of seasoned rice, tender meat, and bold spices create a memorable meal that transports taste buds to New Orleans’ lively kitchens.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Protein:

• 1 pound (454 grams) chicken thighs, diced
• 12 ounces (340 grams) chorizo sausage, sliced

Vegetables and Aromatics:

• 1 large onion, chopped
• 1 bell pepper, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup frozen peas

Pantry and Seasoning Ingredients:

• 1 cup long-grain rice
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 can (14.5 ounces / 411 grams) diced tomatoes
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 1 bay leaf
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

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Instructions

1. Sear the proteins in a large pot over medium heat with olive oil until chicken browns and chorizo develops a crispy exterior, approximately 5-7 minutes. Transfer meats to a separate plate.
2. Using the same pot, sauté diced onions, bell peppers, and minced garlic until onions become translucent and soft, around 5 minutes.
3. Introduce rice and aromatic spices, toasting them briefly to enhance their flavors, stirring continuously for 1-2 minutes.
4. Reintegrate the seared chicken and chorizo into the vegetable mixture, then pour in diced tomatoes and chicken broth. Increase heat to bring the liquid to a boil.
5. Reduce heat to low, cover the pot, and allow the jambalaya to simmer for 20-25 minutes, ensuring rice absorbs the liquid and becomes tender.
6. Incorporate frozen peas during the final 5 minutes of cooking, creating additional texture and color.
7. Season with salt and pepper according to taste preferences, removing the bay leaf before serving.
8. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve immediately while hot, creating a vibrant and flavorful one-pot meal.

Notes

• Meat Preparation: Ensure chicken and chorizo are cut into uniform sizes for even cooking and consistent flavor distribution.
• Spice Balance: Adjust cayenne pepper quantity based on heat preference, creating a milder or spicier jambalaya.
• Rice Selection: Use long-grain rice like basmati or jasmine for optimal texture and preventing mushiness during cooking.
• Dietary Modifications: Substitute chicken with tofu or additional vegetables for vegetarian version, or use gluten-free chorizo for celiac-friendly option.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 35-42 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Dinner
• Method: Simmering
• Cuisine: Creole

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 446 kcal
• Sugar: 3 g
• Sodium: 820 mg
• Fat: 29 g
• Saturated Fat: 9 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 18 g
• Trans Fat: 0.2 g
• Carbohydrates: 23 g
• Fiber: 3 g
• Protein: 28 g
• Cholesterol: 90 mg