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Jambalaya has always been one of those meals that feels like home in our family.
It all started more than 30 years ago when my parents took a cooking class at the New Orleans School of Cooking and learned how to make jambalaya completely from scratch. That recipe has been passed down and is still one we love today… but let’s be honest, it’s a labor of love.
Traditional jambalaya requires a lot of chopping of the “holy trinity,” as it’s called in Cajun cooking: celery, onions, and bell peppers. If you’re making a brown jambalaya, you’ll also need to take the time to make a roux. If you’re going the red jambalaya route, you’ll add tomatoes instead of the roux. Either way, it’s delicious… but definitely more time-intensive.
That’s where this shortcut version comes in.
When we’re short on time but still craving those classic Cajun flavors, this easy rotisserie chicken jambalaya absolutely saves the day. Using a boxed jambalaya mix keeps things simple, and with a few small upgrades, you can still have a rich, comforting meal on the table in under 30 minutes.
This has become one of our go-to, family-favorite dinners! Quick, filling, and full of flavor.
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Cajun
Ingredients
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- ½ bag frozen bell peppers and onions
- ½ pound smoked sausage sliced (We love Conecuh sausage from South Alabama)
- 1 rotisserie chicken chopped
- 1 regular-size box Zatarain’s Jambalaya Mix
- Chopped celery OPTIONAL: if you have it on hand
- Chicken broth OPTIONAL: to replace the water called for on the box
Method
- Add the sliced smoked sausage to a large saucepan over medium heat. Cook until browned.
- Add the frozen peppers and onions (and celery, if using). Sauté until the onions are soft and translucent.
- Stir in the chopped rotisserie chicken and cook for a few minutes, just until the chicken browns slightly and everything is well combined.
- Add the jambalaya rice mix and substitute chicken broth for the water listed on the box.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then cover, reduce the heat, and simmer for the amount of time directed on the box.
- Fluff, taste, and adjust seasoning if needed. That's it!!!
How to Serve
We love serving this jambalaya with:
- Crusty bread
- Extra Cajun seasoning
- Hot sauce
- Green Onions
- Or whatever toppings your family loves
This dish is hearty enough on its own but pairs beautifully with a simple side or a big loaf of bread for soaking up all that flavor.
If you’re looking for an easy rotisserie chicken dinner that still feels comforting and familiar, this jambalaya is a must-make. It’s proof that shortcuts can still taste amazing, and sometimes become new family traditions all on their own. 💛



