Slow Cooker Cajun Jambalaya with Chicken, Sausage & Shrimp

Name: Slow Cooker Cajun Jambalaya with Chicken, Sausage & Shrimp
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 8 h
Total time: 8 h 20 min
Cuisine: Cajun
Ingredients: 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cubed; 1 pound andouille sausage, sliced; 1 can (28 ounces) diced tomatoes; 1 large onion, chopped; 2 celery stalks, thinly sliced; 1 red bell pepper, finely chopped; 2 cups chicken broth; 1 tablespoon tomato paste; ½ teaspoon dried thyme; 2 teaspoons dried oregano; 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning; ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper; 1 cup uncooked long-grain rice; 1 pound raw shrimp (large, about 13–15 count)

Author: Lora

Published: February 6, 2026

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Introduction to Slow Cooker Cajun Jambalaya with Chicken, Sausage & Shrimp

Hey there, fellow food lovers! If you’re like me, juggling a busy schedule, finding time to whip up something delicious can feel daunting. That’s where my Slow Cooker Cajun Jambalaya with Chicken, Sausage & Shrimp comes to the rescue! This dish is a flavorful celebration of Cajun goodness, perfectly crafted for those hectic days. Picture this: bright spices, tender meats, and hearty shrimp all simmering together in one pot while you go about your day. It’s not just a meal; it’s a way to gather loved ones around the table, making memories without breaking a sweat!

Why You’ll Love This Slow Cooker Cajun Jambalaya with Chicken, Sausage & Shrimp

This recipe is a total game-changer! First off, it’s all about the ease of throwing everything into the slow cooker and letting it work its magic. You’ll savor rich, bold flavors without spending hours slaving over the stove. Plus, it’s a one-pot wonder, which means fewer dishes to wash! Every bite of Slow Cooker Cajun Jambalaya with Chicken, Sausage & Shrimp bursts with deliciousness, making it a family favorite that everyone will request again and again.

Ingredients for Slow Cooker Cajun Jambalaya with Chicken, Sausage & Shrimp

Let’s gather our ingredients and kick off this flavorful journey! Each component plays a vital role in crafting the irresistible essence of Slow Cooker Cajun Jambalaya with Chicken, Sausage & Shrimp. Here’s what you’ll need:

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Tender, juicy pieces of chicken add protein and richness. They soak up the spices beautifully.
Andouille sausage: This flavorful sausage brings that authentic Cajun kick, with its smoky and spicy profile.
Diced tomatoes: A can of juicy tomatoes provides acidity and moisture, creating a saucy base for the dish.

Onion: Chopped onion adds sweetness and depth, enhancing the overall flavor with every savory bite.
Celery: Thinly sliced celery contributes a crisp texture and aromatic undertones, essential in Cajun cooking.
Red bell pepper: Finely chopped for color and sweetness, this ingredient also complements the other veggies well.

Chicken broth: Providing depth and richness, chicken broth acts as the cooking liquid that melds all the flavors together.
Tomato paste: A spoonful of tomato paste elevates the tomato flavor, giving it a rich and concentrated taste.
Dried thyme: This herb adds an earthy flavor profile that balances the spices beautifully.

Dried oregano: Another herb that enhances the dish, adding a fragrant and savory touch.
Cajun seasoning: The star of the dish! This blend is packed with flavors like paprika, garlic, and cayenne to bring the heat.
Cayenne pepper: Use this for a kick! Adjust to your spice preference for the perfect heat level.

Long-grain rice: Essential for absorbing moisture and completing the jambalaya, giving it that classic texture.
Raw shrimp: Added towards the end, shrimp provides a sweet, seafood flavor that beautifully complements the dish.

For detailed measurements, check out the bottom of the article where you can find a printable version. Feel free to get creative with your ingredient choices—perhaps a mix of proteins or an extra dash of your favorite spices. Cooking should be fun, after all!

How to Make Slow Cooker Cajun Jambalaya with Chicken, Sausage & Shrimp

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

First, let’s get everything ready! Begin by cubing the boneless chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. Then, slice the andouille sausage into rounds. Chop the onion, celery, and red bell pepper; these veggies will bring a burst of flavor. For the diced tomatoes, simply open the can and drain any excess liquid if desired. Measure out the chicken broth and tomato paste, and don’t forget to gather the spices. Preparation is key, as it sets the stage for a wonderful dish.

Step 2: Assemble in Slow Cooker

Now that everything is ready, it’s time to assemble! Grab your slow cooker and toss in the chicken, sausage, diced tomatoes, onion, celery, and bell pepper. Follow this with the chicken broth and a dollop of tomato paste. Next, sprinkle in the dried thyme, oregano, Cajun seasoning, and cayenne pepper. With a wooden spoon, give it all a good stir to combine the flavors before sealing up the slow cooker. It’s like magic in a pot!

Step 3: Cooking Time

Set your slow cooker to the right temperature. If you’re short on time, opt for the high setting, cooking for 3–4 hours. However, if you can take it slow, the low setting for 7–8 hours works wonders! This leisurely cooking time allows all those flavors to meld beautifully, creating a comforting dish that feels like a warm hug. Just imagine the aroma filling your home; it’s enough to make anyone eager for dinner!

Step 4: Add Rice

About an hour before your jambalaya is ready, it’s time to add the uncooked rice. Measure out the long-grain rice and stir it into the pot. The rice absorbs the flavorful broth as it cooks, helping to create that delightful, traditional jambalaya texture. Be sure to give it a gentle mix so everything gets cozy together. This step makes the dish heartier and more filling, perfect for the family!

Step 5: Adding the Shrimp

Finally, during the last 15 minutes of cooking, toss in the raw shrimp. This is where the seafood magic happens! Stir them in gently and cover the slow cooker. The shrimp will cook quickly, turning from gray to a lovely pink. Be careful not to overcook them, as they can become rubbery. Trust me, perfectly cooked shrimp is the cherry on top of your delicious Slow Cooker Cajun Jambalaya with Chicken, Sausage & Shrimp experience!

Tips for Success

Prep ingredients the night before for a smooth cooking day.

Adjust the cayenne pepper based on your family’s spice tolerance.
For extra depth, sauté the onions, celery, and bell peppers before adding them to the slow cooker.
Don’t skip the 15-minute shrimp addition; it ensures they’re cooked just right!

Serve with a fresh green salad for a complete meal experience.

Equipment Needed

Slow cooker: A traditional slow cooker is best, but an Instant Pot with a slow cook function works too.
Chopping board and knife: Essential for prepping your ingredients.
Wooden spoon: Great for mixing everything in the pot.
Cup and measuring spoons: For precise ingredient measurements.

Variations of Slow Cooker Cajun Jambalaya with Chicken, Sausage & Shrimp

Vegetarian Jambalaya: Swap out the chicken, sausage, and shrimp for extra vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, and bell peppers. Use vegetable broth as a base for a hearty vegetarian option.

Seafood Lovers: Enhance flavors by adding scallops or crab along with the shrimp. Feel free to increase the spice levels with more Cajun seasoning!
Spicy Kick: For those who crave heat, include sliced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce during the cooking process.
Brown Rice Variation: Substitute long-grain white rice with brown rice. Just remember to adjust the cooking time, as brown rice requires more time to cook through.

Mediterranean Twist: Incorporate olives and artichokes for a Mediterranean flair, changing up the spices with Italian seasoning instead of Cajun.

Serving Suggestions for Slow Cooker Cajun Jambalaya with Chicken, Sausage & Shrimp

Serve your jambalaya in deep bowls, garnished with fresh parsley or green onions for a pop of color.
Pair with warm, crusty bread or buttery cornbread to soak up all that delicious sauce.

A light salad with citrus vinaigrette complements the rich flavors perfectly.
Enjoy with a refreshing iced tea or a crisp white wine for a delightful meal.

FAQs about Slow Cooker Cajun Jambalaya with Chicken, Sausage & Shrimp

Can I make this dish ahead of time? Absolutely! One of the best features of Slow Cooker Cajun Jambalaya with Chicken, Sausage & Shrimp is its adaptability. You can prepare it in advance, then store it in the fridge. When you’re ready to eat, just reheat in the microwave or on the stove!

What if I’m not a fan of shrimp? No problem! Simply omit the shrimp and add extra chicken or sausage. Alternatively, you could replace it with other seafood like diced fish or even scallops, depending on your taste preference.

Can I freeze leftovers? Yes, this dish freezes quite well! After cooking, let it cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the freezer for up to three months. Just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

How do I make it less spicy? If you’re aiming for a milder taste, reduce the amount of Cajun seasoning and cayenne pepper. You could also use smoked sausage that has milder spices. A touch of cream could help balance the heat, too.

What should I serve with my jambalaya? I love to pair this dish with a fresh green salad or some warm, crusty bread. A little cornbread on the side never hurts, either! Don’t forget a cool glass of iced tea!

Final Thoughts

As I wrap up this journey into the wonderful world of Slow Cooker Cajun Jambalaya with Chicken, Sausage & Shrimp, I can’t help but feel a sense of warmth and joy. This dish is more than just a meal; it’s a way to build memories with family and friends, all while savoring bold, delicious flavors. It brings a touch of Louisiana charm right into our busy households. With each hearty spoonful, you’re not just feeding bellies, but also the soul. So, gather around the table, share good laughs, and let this jambalaya work its magic!