Just when you thought your Instant Pot couldn’t get any more magical, here comes jambalaya to prove you wrong. This one-pot wonder is your ticket to a hearty, spicy, and utterly delicious meal that’s as easy as pressing a button. Let’s dive into the flavors of the South without leaving your kitchen!
Why This Recipe Works
- Quick and Easy: The Instant Pot cuts down cooking time without sacrificing flavor, making this jambalaya a weeknight hero.
- One-Pot Wonder: Less cleanup means more time to enjoy your meal and less time scrubbing pots.
- Customizable Heat: Adjust the spices to make it as mild or as fiery as your heart desires.
- Protein-Packed: With chicken, shrimp, and sausage, this dish is a protein powerhouse that satisfies every craving.
Ingredients
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 lb chicken breast, cubed
- 12 oz andouille sausage, sliced
- 1 onion, diced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
- Salt and pepper to taste
Equipment Needed
- Instant Pot or pressure cooker
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Knife and cutting board
Instructions
Step 1: Sauté the Good Stuff
Set your Instant Pot to ‘Sauté’ and heat the olive oil. Add the chicken and sausage, cooking until the chicken is no longer pink and the sausage is slightly browned, about 5 minutes. This step builds the foundation of flavor, so don’t rush it. Tip: If the pot gets too hot, lower the temperature to avoid burning.
Step 2: Veggie Time
Throw in the onion, bell pepper, celery, and garlic, sautéing until they’re soft and fragrant, about 3 minutes. These veggies are the holy trinity of Cajun cooking, so give them the love they deserve. Tip: Dice your veggies uniformly for even cooking.
Step 3: Rice and Liquids
Stir in the rice, then add the chicken broth, diced tomatoes, Cajun seasoning, and thyme. Give everything a good mix to ensure the rice is evenly distributed. This is where the magic starts to happen, as the rice will soak up all those incredible flavors.
Step 4: Pressure Cook
Secure the lid, set the valve to ‘Sealing’, and cook on high pressure for 10 minutes. Once done, let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes, then quick release any remaining pressure. This method ensures perfectly cooked rice every time.
Step 5: Shrimp Finish
Add the shrimp to the pot, stirring gently to submerge them in the hot mixture. Close the lid and let the residual heat cook the shrimp for about 5 minutes, or until they’re pink and opaque. Tip: Overcooked shrimp are rubbery, so keep an eye on them.
Tips and Tricks
For an even deeper flavor, consider browning the sausage and chicken in batches to avoid overcrowding the pot. If you’re short on time, frozen shrimp can be used directly without thawing, just add a couple of extra minutes to the cooking time. To make this dish vegetarian, swap the meats for extra veggies like okra and use vegetable broth. Always taste and adjust the seasoning before serving, as the saltiness of the broth and sausage can vary.
Recipe Variations
- Seafood Lover’s Dream: Swap the chicken and sausage for a mix of scallops, crab, and extra shrimp.
- Vegetarian Twist: Use mushrooms, okra, and bell peppers as the main ingredients, and vegetable broth for cooking.
- Spicy Kick: Add chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to turn up the heat.
- Brown Rice Version: Substitute white rice with brown rice and adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen shrimp?
Absolutely! Frozen shrimp can go straight into the pot without thawing. Just add a few extra minutes to ensure they’re fully cooked. This is a great time-saver for busy weeknights.
How can I make it less spicy?
Reduce the amount of Cajun seasoning or opt for a mild version. You can also omit the cayenne pepper if your seasoning blend includes it. Taste as you go to adjust the heat level to your preference.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, jambalaya reheats beautifully. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Add a splash of broth when reheating to bring back the moisture.
Summary
This Instant Pot Jambalaya is a quick, flavorful, and satisfying meal that brings the taste of Louisiana to your table with minimal effort. Perfect for busy nights or when you’re craving something spicy and hearty.
