Get ready to turn up the heat and flavor with this bold and satisfying Spicy Chicken Shrimp Jambalaya! Packed with juicy shrimp, tender chunks of chicken, smoky sausage, and perfectly seasoned rice, this one-pot wonder is your ticket to a dinner that impresses without stress. With colorful peppers, rich tomato undertones, and a gentle heat that lingers, every spoonful delivers a taste of the South right to your kitchen.

Jambalaya is the kind of meal that brings people together—it’s festive, filling, and full of bold personality. Whether you’re hosting friends, feeding your family, or meal-prepping for the week, this recipe offers a comforting, flavor-packed solution. And best of all? It comes together in one pot, making cleanup as easy as cooking.

Why You’ll Love This Spicy Chicken Shrimp Jambalaya

Hearty and Satisfying: A complete meal in every bite—protein, veggies, and rice all in one pot.
Easy to Customize: Adjust the spice level, switch the protein, or add extra veggies.
One-Pot Wonder: Fewer dishes, more flavor.
Big Flavors: Smoked sausage, spices, and fresh herbs add depth and boldness.
Great for Leftovers: It tastes even better the next day!

What Kind of Sausage Should I Use?

For authentic jambalaya flavor, smoked andouille sausage is the traditional choice. It brings a smoky, slightly spicy kick that pairs beautifully with the shrimp and chicken. If you can’t find andouille, kielbasa or any smoked sausage will do the job. Just avoid sweet or mild sausages, as they won’t hold up to the bold flavors of this dish.

Ingredients for the Spicy Chicken Shrimp Jambalaya

Each ingredient in this jambalaya has a purpose—from building depth of flavor to adding texture and richness. Here’s what you need:

Chicken Breast: Lean and hearty, it absorbs the spices and sears beautifully.
Shrimp: Adds a briny sweetness and tender bite to balance the heat.
Andouille Sausage: Brings a smoky, spicy edge that defines traditional jambalaya.
Long Grain Rice: Perfect for absorbing the bold, spiced broth without turning mushy.
Bell Peppers (green and red): Offer a slight sweetness and beautiful color.
Celery & Onion: The aromatic base that brings everything together.
Garlic: Fresh cloves add an essential, savory backbone.
Crushed Tomatoes: Add richness and help form the tomato-based broth.
Chicken Stock: Deepens the flavor while keeping the dish moist.
Cajun Seasoning: The bold, spicy soul of the dish.
Paprika: Adds warmth and depth without overpowering.
Salt & Pepper: Essential for balance.
Green Onions & Parsley: Fresh garnishes for a pop of color and freshness.

How To Make the Spicy Chicken Shrimp Jambalaya

Step 1: Sear the Meats

In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat oil and brown the chicken pieces. Once golden, remove and sear the sliced sausage until slightly crispy. Set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

Add chopped onion, bell peppers, and celery to the same pot. Cook until softened, then add minced garlic and sauté for another minute.

Step 3: Build the Base

Stir in the crushed tomatoes, Cajun seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. Let it simmer briefly to meld the flavors.

Step 4: Add the Rice and Stock

Pour in the rice and chicken stock. Return the chicken and sausage to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cover and cook until the rice is tender (about 20-25 minutes).

Step 5: Add the Shrimp

Gently fold in the shrimp during the last 5-7 minutes of cooking. Simmer until they turn pink and are cooked through.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Top with chopped green onions and fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy the rich, smoky aroma that fills your kitchen!

How to Serve and Store Spicy Chicken Shrimp Jambalaya

This jambalaya is a meal in itself, but how you serve it can elevate the entire experience. Dish it out hot, straight from the pot, garnished with fresh green onions and parsley. The steamy, spicy aroma will have everyone at the table before you call them!

This recipe feeds about 6 to 8 people, making it perfect for a family meal or a casual gathering with friends.

To store leftovers, allow the jambalaya to cool completely. Transfer it into airtight containers and refrigerate for up to 4 days. You can also freeze it for up to 2 months—just thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of broth to loosen.

What to Serve With Spicy Chicken Shrimp Jambalaya?

Cornbread

A warm, crumbly slice of cornbread pairs perfectly with the spicy, saucy rice.

Southern Coleslaw

Its tangy crunch provides a cool contrast to the jambalaya’s heat.

Garlic Bread

Crispy, buttery slices are ideal for scooping up the rich tomato base.

Green Salad with Citrus Vinaigrette

A fresh, zesty salad cuts through the bold flavors of the dish.

Fried Okra

Crunchy and classic, fried okra adds Southern flair to your meal.

Grilled Corn on the Cob

Sweet and smoky, it complements the spice with natural sweetness.

Pickled Vegetables

A tangy bite to balance the richness of the meats and rice.

Sweet Iced Tea or Lemonade

Cool down the heat with a refreshing Southern-style drink.

Want More Dinner Ideas with a Southern Twist?

If this Spicy Chicken Shrimp Jambalaya fired up your appetite, you’ll definitely want to check out these flavorful favorites from the NoraNosh kitchen:

Try this comforting and cheesy Doritos Chicken Casserole for a quick dinner that’s always a hit.
Spice things up with Cajun Shrimp with Garlic Butter Sauce—a bold seafood recipe that complements jambalaya nights.
Enjoy the creamy decadence of Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Lasagna.
Looking for a meatless night? Easy Veggie Patties deliver big flavor with zero fuss.
Or go classic with The Best Chili Recipe that’s always in season.

Save This Pin For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out! Did you dial up the spice or keep it mild? Add extra sausage or sneak in some okra? I love hearing the creative twists readers bring to these dishes.

Questions are welcome too—let’s help each other cook better, bolder meals.

Explore beautifully curated comfort meals, vibrant one-pot dishes, and health-boosting drinks on NoraNosh Recipes on Pinterest and find your next crave-worthy favorite!

Spicy Chicken Shrimp Jambalaya

Author: Tanya Rivers
Total Time: 50 minutes
Yield: 6 servings

Print Recipe

Description

Craving something bold, hearty, and irresistibly flavorful? This Spicy Chicken Shrimp Jambalaya is your go-to dish! Bursting with juicy shrimp, tender chicken, and smoky sausage, all simmered in a rich Cajun-seasoned tomato broth with peppers and rice—it’s the one-pot dinner dreams are made of. Whether you’re after a cozy family dinner, easy dinner recipe, weeknight comfort meal, or something to spice up your food ideas, this jambalaya checks every box. It’s also perfect for entertaining or weekly meal prep. Quick to cook, full of Southern charm, and made to satisfy!

Instructions

1. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced chicken and cook until browned. Remove and set aside.

2. In the same pot, sear sausage slices until slightly crispy. Remove and set aside.

3. Add diced onions, bell peppers, and celery. Sauté until softened, then stir in minced garlic for 1 minute.

4. Add crushed tomatoes, Cajun seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5 minutes.

5. Stir in rice and chicken stock. Return chicken and sausage to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce to simmer. Cover and cook for 20–25 minutes.

6. Add shrimp in the last 5–7 minutes of cooking. Simmer until shrimp are pink and cooked through.

7. Garnish with green onions and parsley. Serve hot and enjoy!

Notes

You can increase the Cajun seasoning if you prefer a spicier kick or reduce it for a milder version.

For a thicker texture, uncover the pot during the last 5 minutes of simmering to reduce excess liquid.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Category: Dinner
Method: One-Pot
Cuisine: Southern / Cajun

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 bowl
Calories: 490
Sugar: 6g
Sodium: 820mg
Fat: 16g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Unsaturated Fat: 9g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 42g
Fiber: 4g
Protein: 37g
Cholesterol: 175mg

Keywords: spicy jambalaya, shrimp jambalaya, chicken and rice, Cajun dinner, easy weeknight meals