Save A hearty, oven-baked version of the classic Louisiana jambalaya, packed with tender chicken, smoky sausage, and aromatic vegetables in a flavorful tomato rice base.
I first served this cozy chicken and sausage jambalaya bake at a family gathering, and it was an instant hit!
Ingredients
- Meats: 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1 inch pieces, 250 g (9 oz) smoked andouille sausage or kielbasa, sliced
- Vegetables: 1 large onion, finely chopped, 1 green bell pepper, diced, 2 celery stalks, diced, 3 garlic cloves, minced, 1 can (400 g / 14 oz) diced tomatoes, with juices
- Rice & Liquids: 1½ cups (285 g) long-grain white rice, rinsed, 2½ cups (600 ml) chicken broth, 2 tbsp tomato paste
- Spices & Seasonings: 1 tsp smoked paprika, 1 tsp dried thyme, 1 tsp dried oregano, ½ tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to taste), 1 bay leaf, 1½ tsp kosher salt, ½ tsp black pepper
- Oil & Garnish: 2 tbsp olive oil, 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (for garnish), Lemon wedges (optional, for serving)
Instructions
- Preheat:
- Preheat oven to 190°C (375°F). Grease a large baking dish (about 9x13 inches).
- Cook Meats:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken pieces and sausage sauté for 4 5 minutes until lightly browned. Transfer to the prepared baking dish.
- Sauté Vegetables:
- In the same skillet, add onion, bell pepper, and celery cook for 4 minutes until softened. Add garlic and cook for another minute.
- Add Spices:
- Stir in tomato paste, smoked paprika, thyme, oregano, cayenne, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute to release the flavors.
- Add Tomatoes:
- Add diced tomatoes with juices and stir well, scraping up any browned bits.
- Combine:
- Transfer the vegetable mixture to the baking dish with the chicken and sausage. Add rice and bay leaf, then pour in chicken broth. Stir gently to combine and spread evenly.
- Bake Covered:
- Cover the dish tightly with foil and bake for 40 minutes.
- Bake Uncovered:
- Remove foil, stir gently, and bake uncovered for 10 more minutes, or until the rice is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
- Finish:
- Remove from oven and discard bay leaf. Fluff with a fork, garnish with parsley, and serve with lemon wedges if desired.
Save This recipe always brings my family together around the table sharing stories and laughter.
Notes
For a one-pot option, use a large ovenproof Dutch oven from stovetop to oven. Serve with a simple green salad or cornbread.
Required Tools
Large skillet, 9x13-inch baking dish, Aluminum foil, Cutting board and knife, Mixing spoon
Allergen Information
Contains Meat (chicken sausage). Sausage may contain soy gluten or dairy check labels for sensitivities. Chicken broth may contain allergens use homemade or check packaging.
Save This jambalaya bake is a comforting meal that’s simple to prepare and perfect for any occasion.
Recipe Guide
- → How do I ensure the rice cooks evenly in the dish?
Use long-grain rice rinsed well and cover the baking dish tightly with foil during most of the cooking time to trap steam, ensuring even cooking and tender texture.
- → Can I substitute other meats for the sausage?
Yes, turkey sausage or smoked kielbasa are good alternatives. You can also omit sausage for a lighter flavor, adjusting seasoning as needed.
- → What vegetables enhance the flavor of this bake?
Onions, bell peppers, celery, and garlic combine to provide a classic aromatic base that complements the meats and spices.
- → Is it possible to add more heat to the dish?
Definitely. Increase cayenne pepper or add hot sauce to suit your preferred spice level without altering the core flavors.
- → What are good garnishes to serve with this dish?
Fresh chopped parsley adds color and brightness. Lemon wedges add a refreshing zest when squeezed over before eating.