What if you could have a taste of the Big Easy on a busy weeknight? This instant pot chicken and sausage jambalaya is a quick and easy homemade solution, packed with spicy sausage and tender chicken, perfect for a family favorite dinner – Save this idea

two bowls of instant pot chicken and sausage jambalya with chopsticks on the side

Introduction

Imagine a dish that’s as easy to make as it is flavorful, using ingredients you likely have on hand. The instant pot chicken and sausage jambalaya is a creative twist on traditional jambalaya, made simpler and quicker thanks to the Instant Pot. This recipe combines the rich flavors of chicken, sausage, and spices, all cooked to perfection in under 30 minutes. With its blend of ease, flavor, and creativity, this dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. The addition of chopsticks on the side adds a fun and unique touch, allowing you to enjoy your meal in a new and exciting way.

Why This Works

• Flavor balance and ingredient accessibility: This recipe strikes a perfect balance between spicy sausage, tender chicken, and aromatic spices, all of which are easily found in most grocery stores.
• Ease of preparation: The Instant Pot simplifies the cooking process, allowing you to cook all the ingredients together in one pot, which reduces cleanup and preparation time.
• Impressive results with minimal effort: Despite its simplicity, this dish is impressive in its depth of flavor and texture, making it perfect for serving to guests or enjoying as a family meal.

Key Ingredients

The main ingredients in this recipe include boneless, skinless chicken breasts, smoked sausage (such as Andouille), uncooked white rice, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, and a blend of spices including paprika, cayenne pepper, and thyme. You can substitute the sausage with another type of smoked sausage if Andouille is not available, and use vegetable broth for a lighter flavor. The chopsticks on the side add a fun and interactive element to the meal, allowing you to pick up the chicken and sausage with ease.

Instructions

1. Step 1: Begin by prepping your ingredients. Chop the onion and bell pepper, slice the sausage, and measure out the spices and broth. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and heat the olive oil until shimmering. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Step 2: Add the sliced sausage to the pot and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Then add the chicken and cook until it starts to brown, about 5-6 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
3. Step 3: Add the diced tomatoes, chicken broth, paprika, cayenne pepper, and thyme to the pot. Stir to combine, then add the uncooked white rice. Close the lid of the Instant Pot and set the valve to “Sealing”. Press the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” button and set the cooking time to 10 minutes at high pressure.
4. Step 4: When the cooking time is up, allow the pressure to release naturally for 10 minutes, then quick-release any remaining pressure. Open the lid and check that the rice is tender and the liquid has been absorbed. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions and a side of chopsticks.

Handy Tips

• Use high-quality ingredients, such as smoked sausage and fresh spices, to get the best flavor out of your dish. If you can’t find Andouille sausage, you can substitute it with another type of smoked sausage.
• Avoid overfilling the Instant Pot, as this can lead to a messy and potentially dangerous situation. Leave at least a 2-inch gap between the top of the food and the lid.
• Don’t be afraid to experiment with different spices and seasonings to make the dish your own. You can add diced jalapenos for extra heat or use different types of protein, such as shrimp or chicken thighs.

Heat Control

The Instant Pot makes it easy to control the heat and cooking time, ensuring that your dish is cooked to perfection. The “Saute” function allows you to brown the sausage and chicken, while the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” function cooks the rice and absorbs the liquid. The ideal temperature for cooking jambalaya is high pressure, which is achieved by closing the lid and setting the valve to “Sealing”. The cooking time will depend on the type and amount of ingredients, but for this recipe, 10 minutes at high pressure is sufficient.

Crunch Factor

The crunch factor in this dish comes from the browned sausage and chicken, as well as the tender but still slightly crunchy vegetables. To achieve this texture, make sure to cook the sausage and chicken until they are nicely browned, and don’t overcook the vegetables. You can also add some crunchy toppings, such as chopped scallions or diced bell peppers, to add texture and flavor to the dish.

Pro Kitchen Tricks

• Use the “Saute” function to brown the sausage and chicken, which adds depth and richness to the dish. This step is crucial in developing the flavor of the jambalaya.
• Don’t stir the rice too much, as this can make it sticky and clumpy. Instead, let it cook undisturbed for a few minutes, then fluff it with a fork to separate the grains.
• Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes, which allows the flavors to meld together and the rice to absorb the liquid. This step is important in achieving the perfect texture and flavor.

Storage Tips

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until hot and steaming.
• Freeze individual portions in zip-top bags or airtight containers for up to 3 months. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until hot and steaming.
• Use a vacuum sealer to remove air from the container and prevent freezer burn. This will help to preserve the texture and flavor of the dish.

Gift Packaging Ideas

This dish is perfect for gifting to friends and family, especially during the holidays. Package individual portions in decorative containers or jars, and add a side of chopsticks and a sprinkle of paprika on top. You can also include a bottle of hot sauce or a bag of crusty bread for a complete meal. Consider adding a gift tag or a handwritten note to make it a more personal and thoughtful gift.

Flavor Variations

• Different spices: Try adding some cumin or coriander to give the dish a smoky flavor, or use different types of hot sauce to add heat.
• Creative toppings: Add some diced avocado or sour cream to add creaminess, or use different types of cheese, such as cheddar or pepper jack, to add flavor.
• Ingredient swaps: Use chicken thighs or legs instead of breasts, or add some shrimp or scallops for a seafood twist. You can also use different types of sausage, such as chorizo or kielbasa, to add flavor.

Troubleshooting

• Texture problems: If the rice is too sticky or clumpy, try adding a little more liquid or stirring it gently with a fork. If the sausage is too dry, try adding a little more oil or cooking it for a shorter time.
• Ingredient replacements: If you can’t find Andouille sausage, try using another type of smoked sausage or adding some smoked paprika to give it a smoky flavor. If you don’t have chicken broth, try using vegetable broth or water as a substitute.
• Over/undercooking signs: If the rice is undercooked, it will be crunchy or hard in the center. If it’s overcooked, it will be mushy or sticky. Check the rice regularly during the cooking time to ensure it’s cooked to perfection.

FAQs

• Can I freeze it? Yes, you can freeze individual portions of the jambalaya for up to 3 months. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until hot and steaming.
• Is it gluten-free? Yes, this recipe is gluten-free, making it a great option for those with dietary restrictions. However, if you’re using a store-bought sausage, make sure to check the ingredients list for any gluten-containing ingredients.
• Can I double the recipe? Yes, you can easily double or triple the recipe to feed a larger crowd. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time and liquid accordingly to ensure the rice is cooked to perfection.

Conclusion

This instant pot chicken and sausage jambalaya recipe is a game-changer for anyone looking for a quick, easy, and flavorful meal. With its rich and spicy flavors, tender chicken and sausage, and perfectly cooked rice, this dish is sure to become a staple in your household. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different spices and ingredients to make it your own, and consider gifting it to friends and family during the holidays. Whether you’re a busy weeknight cook or a weekend meal prep warrior, this recipe is sure to impress. So go ahead, give it a try, and enjoy the delicious flavors of jambalaya in the comfort of your own home!