There’s something magical about a recipe that lets you set it, forget it, and still end up with a dinner that tastes like it took all day. That’s the beauty of this Slow Cooker Chicken Jambalaya—a one-pot meal full of deep Southern flavor, all made easier with the shortcut of rotisserie chicken. This dish brings the bold spice of Cajun cooking together with the hands-off convenience of your slow cooker.
Whether you’re cooking for your family on a busy weeknight or preparing meals for the week ahead, this chicken jambalaya is here to deliver—no hovering over the stove required.
❤️ 2. Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe checks all the boxes:
- Effortless: The slow cooker does the heavy lifting.
- Flavor-packed: Smoky, spicy, and full of depth.
- Comforting: A warm, hearty bowl every time.
- Time-saving: Using rotisserie chicken slashes prep time.
- Family-friendly: Kids and adults both go back for seconds.
📚 3. The History of Jambalaya
Originating in Louisiana, jambalaya is a dish with deep roots in Creole and Cajun cuisine. It’s traditionally a mix of meat, rice, vegetables, and bold spices. Influenced by Spanish paella, jambalaya uses what’s available—from chicken to sausage to shrimp—making it a dish of both heritage and practicality.
What sets jambalaya apart from other rice-based meals is the Holy Trinity of Cajun cooking: onions, bell peppers, and celery—a flavor base that forms the soul of the dish.
🍗 4. The Power of Rotisserie Chicken
Let’s be honest—some days you need a shortcut. That’s where rotisserie chicken becomes a weeknight hero. It’s:
- Already cooked and juicy
- Rich in flavor from its slow roasting
- Time-saving—just shred and go
- A great way to reduce food waste if you’ve got leftovers
In this recipe, it blends seamlessly with the other ingredients, absorbing all those spices and brothy goodness during the slow cook.
🛒 5. Ingredients Breakdown
Main Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked rotisserie chicken, shredded
- 12 oz smoked sausage, sliced (Andouille or Kielbasa recommended)
- 1 cup long grain white rice (avoid quick-cook varieties)
- 1 red or green bell pepper, chopped
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, with juice
- 2 cups chicken broth, low sodium preferred
Spice Mix:
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp dried thyme
- ½ tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
Optional Add-ins:
- Bay leaf for added aroma
- Green onions for garnish
- Hot sauce for a spicy kick
🍲 6. Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients
Shred the rotisserie chicken and slice your sausage into rounds. Dice all your veggies.
Step 2: Load the Slow Cooker
Add chicken, sausage, rice, bell pepper, onion, celery, garlic, and diced tomatoes to the crockpot.
Step 3: Pour & Season
Add the chicken broth and then sprinkle all the spices directly on top. Stir everything gently to combine.
Step 4: Cook on Low
Set your slow cooker to low for 4 to 5 hours. The rice should be tender, and the mixture will thicken as it absorbs flavor.
Step 5: Stir & Serve
Before serving, give it a final stir. Ladle into bowls and garnish with fresh green onions or parsley if you like.
🧂 7. Variations & Substitutions
- Protein Swap: Use shrimp, turkey sausage, or even tofu for a different spin.
- Low-Carb Version: Substitute rice with cauliflower rice, but add it in the last 30 minutes to avoid mush.
- Spice Level: Control heat by adjusting cayenne, or using a milder sausage.
🧠 8. Tips for the Best Slow Cooker Jambalaya
- Use Long-Grain Rice: It holds up best during long cooking.
- Layer Wisely: Place the rice on the bottom so it gets enough liquid to cook evenly.
- Avoid Overcooking: Check at the 4-hour mark to prevent mushy rice.
- Reheat Gently: Add a splash of broth when reheating for best texture.
🧊 9. Make-Ahead & Storage Tips
Make-Ahead:
- Prep all veggies and sausage the night before.
- Store shredded chicken separately until ready to assemble and cook.
Storage:
- Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezer: Not recommended—rice can turn mushy after thawing.
🍽️ 10. What to Serve with Jambalaya
Pair your jambalaya with:
- Cornbread or crusty bread
- Simple green salad
- Sautéed greens or collard greens
- Roasted okra or zucchini
🔢 11. Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 410 |
| Protein | 22g |
| Carbohydrates | 32g |
| Fiber | 2g |
| Sugars | 4g |
| Fat | 22g |
| Saturated Fat | 6g |
| Cholesterol | 65mg |
| Sodium | 780mg |
❓ 12. Common FAQs
Can I use brown rice instead of white?
Yes, but it may need more cooking time and liquid. Monitor closely.
Can I make it spicy without cayenne?
Use diced jalapeños or spicy smoked sausage instead.
Will it get too dry if left on warm?
After cooking, switch to warm for no more than 1 hour. Add a splash of broth if it looks dry.
📝 13. Final Thoughts
This Slow Cooker Chicken Jambalaya is a lifesaver recipe—flavorful, forgiving, and fiercely satisfying. With rotisserie chicken on your side, you cut down on prep but keep all the comfort. Whether you’re serving a family meal or packing lunches for the week, this dish earns a permanent spot in your meal rotation.
There’s a reason jambalaya is beloved—it brings people together. One bowl, full of warmth and spice, is all it takes.
📄 14. Printable Recipe Card
Slow Cooker Chicken Jambalaya – Easy Recipes with Rotisserie Chicken
Prep Time: 15 min
Cook Time: 5 hr
Total Time: 5 hr 15 min
Servings: 6
Ingredients:
- 2 cups shredded rotisserie chicken
- 12 oz smoked sausage, sliced
- 1 cup long grain white rice
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz), undrained
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp dried thyme
- ½ tsp cayenne pepper
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
Instructions:
- Add all ingredients to slow cooker.
- Stir gently to combine.
- Cover and cook on low for 4 to 5 hours.
- Stir and serve hot.
Notes:
- For less spice, reduce cayenne.
- Garnish with parsley or green onions.
