Easy Slow Cooker Chicken Jambalaya 6-Ingredient

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Some nights just call for a meal that practically cooks itself while you get on with life—and that’s where Slow Cooker Chicken Jambalaya swoops in like a superhero with a ladle. It’s hearty, cozy, and so full of Cajun flavor that your kitchen will smell like a New Orleans street party. Plus, it’s perfect for busy nights when you’re juggling work, kids, or just your own to-do list.

This dish is the kind of comfort food that lets your slow cooker do all the heavy lifting. You toss everything in, go about your day, and come home to a dinner that tastes like you spent hours babysitting it (spoiler alert: you didn’t).

Why You’ll Love This Slow Cooker Chicken Jambalaya

Set-it-and-forget-it magic: Just dump, stir, and let the slow cooker work its magic.
Packed with flavor: Cajun seasoning, smoky sausage, and tender chicken make every bite sing.
Crowd-friendly: Perfect for family dinners or when you need to feed a hungry group.
Meal-prep approved: It reheats beautifully, so leftovers are never a problem.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Chicken Breast – Or swap in boneless, skinless chicken thighs for extra juiciness.
Andouille Sausage – Use your favorite sausage (or turkey sausage if you want it lighter).
Cajun Seasoning – The soul of jambalaya flavor.
Vegetables – Onion, celery, red bell pepper, and green bell pepper chopped into bite-size pieces.
Minced Garlic – Because garlic just makes everything better.
Crushed Tomatoes – Diced tomatoes work too if that’s what you have on hand.
Chicken Broth – No broth? No problem. Water with a bouillon cube works in a pinch.
Rice – Cooked rice to stir in right before serving.

Find all ingredient quantities and nutrition information in the recipe card.

How to Make Slow Cooker Chicken Jambalaya

Load up the slow cooker. Start by adding the chicken, sausage, chopped vegetables, garlic, Cajun seasoning, crushed tomatoes, and chicken broth into your crock pot. Make sure to give everything a gentle stir so the seasoning coats the meat and veggies evenly. Leave out the cooked rice for now, as adding it too early can make it mushy.
Let it do its thing. Cover the slow cooker with the lid and choose your cooking setting. Cook on low for 6-8 hours if you’ll be gone for the day, or on high for 3-4 hours if you need dinner a bit sooner. As it cooks, the chicken becomes tender, the sausage infuses everything with smoky flavor, and the veggies release their sweetness.
Shred and stir. Once the chicken is cooked through, remove it from the slow cooker, shred it with two forks, and return it to the pot. This ensures every bite has flavorful pieces of chicken throughout.
Finish it up. About 15 minutes before serving, stir in the cooked rice. The rice will soak up all those delicious juices and seasonings without becoming soggy.
Serve and savor. Ladle generous portions into bowls, garnish with fresh parsley or a squeeze of lemon if you like, and enjoy while it’s warm and comforting. Don’t be surprised if everyone asks for seconds!

Cooking Tips from My Kitchen

Thick or soupy? If your jambalaya looks too thick, add a splash of broth. Too thin? Let it cook uncovered for 20-30 minutes on high.
Spice control: Cajun seasoning can pack a punch. Start with less if you prefer mild heat, then add more at the end.
Make it ahead: This dish tastes even better the next day. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

Fun fact—this recipe saved me on a week when my calendar looked like a losing game of Tetris. I threw everything in the slow cooker before work and came home to the smell of pure happiness. Total lifesaver!

Slow Cooker Chicken Jambalaya with tender chicken, sausage, peppers, and rice in a crockpot, packed with Cajun spices. — Slow Cooker Chicken Jambalaya – a hearty, Cajun-inspired dish with chicken, sausage, veggies, and rice for an easy weeknight dinner.

FAQs About Slow Cooker Chicken Jambalaya

Can I use uncooked rice instead of cooked?

I wouldn’t recommend it. Uncooked rice can soak up too much liquid and turn mushy. Cooking it separately keeps the texture perfect.

Can I freeze jambalaya?

Yes! Freeze in portions without the rice. Add freshly cooked rice when reheating for the best texture.

What if I don’t have andouille sausage?

Any smoked sausage works, or even turkey sausage for a lighter option.

Bring Big Cajun Flavor to Your Table

Slow Cooker Chicken Jambalaya is one of those meals that feels special without requiring a special occasion. It’s bold, flavorful, and practically cooks itself—exactly what you need on a hectic weeknight. Whether you’re making it for a casual family dinner or serving it up for friends, this dish always impresses with its rich flavors and vibrant colors.

The best part? It tastes just as amazing the next day, making it perfect for meal prep or a no-stress leftover lunch. So grab your slow cooker, let the magic happen, and get ready for a cozy dinner that tastes like pure Southern comfort. Your kitchen will smell incredible, your taste buds will thank you, and your family might just crown you the weeknight dinner hero!

More Delicious Slow Cooker Recipes You’ll Love

Looking for more cozy, flavorful meals that are just as easy as this jambalaya? Here are some reader favorites to try next:

Try this Crockpot Sweet and Sour Chicken for a tangy, family-friendly dinner that pairs perfectly with rice.
For a creamy and comforting meal, you’ll love Healthy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta—it’s an easy weeknight win.
If you’re craving hearty beef, make Caramelized Pulled Beef Brisket that’s perfect for sandwiches or tacos.
For another flavor-packed chicken dish, check out this Slow Cooker Orange Chicken that’s both sweet and savory.

These recipes are just as simple and satisfying—perfect for busy days when you still want a home-cooked meal without the stress!