What’s the secret to a stress-free weeknight dinner that’s packed with flavor? This instant pot chicken and sausage jambalaya is a quick and easy homemade solution, featuring tender chicken and spicy sausage in a savory one-pot dish. Save this idea for a family favorite meal that’s perfect for busy nights, try it soon and enjoy the comfort of a delicious homemade meal.

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

Introduction

Imagine a dish that combines the spicy kick of sausage, the tender bite of chicken, and the comforting warmth of rice, all perfectly balanced and ready to devour in under an hour. Welcome to the world of Instant Pot Chicken and Sausage Jambalaya, a culinary masterpiece that brings the vibrant flavors of Louisiana right into your kitchen. This recipe is not just about the flavors; it’s about the ease, the creativity, and the joy of cooking with everyday ingredients. Whether you’re a busy weeknight warrior or a weekend culinary adventurer, this dish promises to delight your senses and leave you wanting more.

Why This Works

• Flavor balance and ingredient accessibility: The beauty of Jambalaya lies in its perfect balance of spices, meats, and vegetables, making it a dish that’s both exciting and comforting. The ingredients are easily accessible and can be found in most grocery stores, making it a practical choice for any meal.
• Ease of preparation: Using an Instant Pot significantly reduces the cooking time and effort, allowing you to achieve restaurant-quality results with minimal fuss. The pressure cooking function ensures that all the flavors meld together beautifully and that the chicken and sausage are cooked to perfection.
• Impressive results with minimal effort: Despite its simplicity, this dish is incredibly impressive. The combination of chicken, sausage, and the array of spices creates a depth of flavor that will make your dinner guests believe you’ve been cooking all day. The addition of chopsticks on the side adds a fun and unique twist, perfect for adventurous eaters.

Key Ingredients

The main ingredients in this recipe include chicken breasts, smoked sausage (such as Andouille), uncooked white rice, diced tomatoes, onion, bell pepper, garlic, chicken broth, and a blend of spices including paprika, cayenne pepper, and thyme. For practical substitutions, you can use boneless chicken thighs if you prefer darker meat, and any smoked sausage will work if Andouille is not available. Additionally, you can customize the spice level to your liking by adjusting the amount of cayenne pepper. The chopsticks on the side add a playful element, allowing each diner to pick up bites of the Jambalaya in a unique and interactive way.

Instructions

1. Step 1: Begin by prepping your ingredients. Chop the onion and bell pepper into medium-sized pieces. Mince the garlic and slice the smoked sausage. Measure out your spices and rice.
2. Step 2: Press the “Saute” function on the Instant Pot and heat a couple of tablespoons of olive oil. Add the chopped onion and bell pepper and cook until they’re softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
3. Step 3: Add the sliced sausage to the pot and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Then, add the chicken and cook until it’s browned on all sides. Add the diced tomatoes, chicken broth, spices, and rice. Stir well to combine.
4. Step 4: Close the lid of the Instant Pot and make sure the valve is set to “Sealing”. Press the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” function and set the cooking time to 10 minutes at high pressure. When the cooking time is up, allow the pressure to release naturally for 10 minutes, then quick-release any remaining pressure. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions if desired, and don’t forget to place a pair of chopsticks on the side of each bowl for a fun and unexpected dining experience.

Handy Tips

• Always deglaze the pot after sautéing the sausage and chicken to get all the flavorful bits off the bottom. You can do this by adding a bit of the chicken broth and scraping the bottom of the pot with a wooden spoon.
• For a spicier Jambalaya, increase the amount of cayenne pepper or add in some diced jalapeños.
• To avoid overcooking the rice, make sure to follow the cooking time and natural release instructions carefully. Overcooking can result in mushy, unappetizing rice.

Heat Control

The ideal temperature for cooking the Jambalaya is the high-pressure setting on the Instant Pot. The cooking time is 10 minutes, and it’s crucial to let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes afterward to ensure the chicken is cooked through and the rice is perfectly tender. Signs of doneness include the chicken reaching an internal temperature of 165°F and the rice being fluffy and separate.

Crunch Factor

The crunch factor in this dish comes from the toasted rice at the bottom of the pot, known as the “crust” in traditional Jambalaya recipes. To achieve this, make sure to not stir the Jambalaya too much after cooking, allowing the bottom layer to crisp up slightly. Additionally, the crunch of the chopped scallions on top adds a nice textural element to each bite.

Pro Kitchen Tricks

• For an extra depth of flavor, use homemade chicken broth instead of store-bought. You can make this by simmering chicken bones in water for a few hours and then straining the liquid.
• To make cleanup easier, line the Instant Pot with parchment paper or a reusable liner before cooking. This prevents food from sticking to the pot and makes washing up a breeze.
• Consider making a double batch of this recipe and freezing it for later meals. Jambalaya freezes beautifully and can be reheated in the microwave or on the stovetop.

Storage Tips

• Leftover Jambalaya can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through.
• For freezing, portion the cooled Jambalaya into airtight containers or freezer bags and store in the freezer for up to 3 months. Reheat frozen Jambalaya by thawing it overnight in the fridge and then reheating as usual.
• The best containers for storing Jambalaya are airtight, microwave-safe containers to prevent moisture and other flavors from affecting the dish.

Gift Packaging Ideas

While Jambalaya is typically a dish served hot and fresh, it can be gifted in creative ways. Consider packaging cooled Jambalaya in decorative, airtight containers and pairing it with a bag of crusty bread or a side of homemade biscuits. You can also include a small bottle of hot sauce or a packet of gourmet spices to enhance the flavor. For a more unique gift, fill mason jars with layers of Jambalaya, toppings, and spices, creating a “Jambalaya in a jar” that the recipient can cook at home.

Flavor Variations

• Different spices: Experiment with various spice blends, such as adding more paprika for a smokier flavor or introducing cumin for a Mexican twist.
• Creative toppings: Add some diced avocado, sour cream, or shredded cheese on top of the Jambalaya for extra creaminess and flavor.
• Ingredient swaps: Substitute the chicken with shrimp or use a combination of meats for a heartier dish. You can also add in other vegetables like mushrooms or zucchini to increase the nutritional value.

Troubleshooting

• Texture problems: If the rice is mushy, it may be overcooked. Try reducing the cooking time or the amount of liquid in the recipe. If the chicken is tough, it might not have been cooked long enough or was not cooked at the right temperature.
• Ingredient replacements: If you can’t find Andouille sausage, you can substitute it with another smoked sausage. For a vegetarian version, omit the sausage and chicken and add more vegetables or tofu for protein.
• Over/undercooking signs: Check the chicken for an internal temperature of 165°F to ensure it’s cooked through. The rice should be tender but not mushy. If you’re unsure, it’s always better to err on the side of undercooking, as you can always cook it a bit longer but you can’t undo overcooking.

FAQs

• Can I freeze it? Yes, Jambalaya freezes well. Cool it down, then portion it into airtight containers or freezer bags and store in the freezer for up to 3 months.
• Is it gluten-free? This recipe is naturally gluten-free, making it a great option for those with gluten intolerance. However, always check the ingredients of the sausage and chicken broth to ensure they are gluten-free.
• Can I double the recipe? Yes, you can easily double or triple this recipe in a larger Instant Pot or by cooking it in batches. Just remember to adjust the cooking time slightly if you’re using a larger quantity of ingredients.

Conclusion

Instant Pot Chicken and Sausage Jambalaya with chopsticks on the side is a recipe that embodies the spirit of adventurous eating while remaining accessible and easy to make. It’s a dish that will become a staple in your household, not just for its incredible flavor but for the joy and simplicity it brings to your cooking routine. Feel free to experiment with the recipe, share it with friends and family, and enjoy the process of creating something truly delicious. Bon appétit, and don’t forget to have fun with those chopsticks!