Start by seasoning the bite-sized pieces of chicken breast with 1 tablespoon of Cajun seasoning. This will coat the chicken in a robust flavor that sets the stage for the rest of the dish. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, carefully add the seasoned chicken. Cook for about 5 to 7 minutes or until it’s browned on all sides. The chicken should be golden and fragrant. Remove it from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of olive oil and bring the heat back up. Next, toss in the Andouille sausage slices. Sauté them until they’re browned and crispy, which should take around 4 to 5 minutes. The fat from the sausage will enrich the dish. Transfer the cooked sausage to the plate with the chicken.
Now, add the last tablespoon of olive oil to the skillet. This time, incorporate the diced onion, celery, and bell peppers. Season them with salt and pepper to taste. Cook these vegetables for about 5 to 7 minutes until they’re softened and fragrant. You want them to become translucent, enhancing the savory base.
Stir in the minced garlic and let it cook for another minute. The garlic should become aromatic but not browned, as burnt garlic can impart an unpleasant bitterness.
Now, it’s time to bring it all together. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, the remaining Cajun seasoning, oregano, chicken broth, and white rice. Mix everything well to combine, ensuring the rice is evenly distributed.
Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cover the skillet with a lid, allowing it to cook undisturbed for about 20 to 25 minutes. The magic happens here as the rice absorbs the flavors and liquid. Do not lift the lid too often; this keeps the steam inside, ensuring the rice cooks properly.
Once the rice is cooked and the liquid has been absorbed, stir in the cooked chicken and Andouille sausage. Cook everything together for an additional 5 minutes until everything is heated through. The dish should be cohesive and hearty.
Finally, give the jambalaya a good stir to fluff the rice. Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. The flavors should be robust and satisfying.
Serve your delicious Chicken Jambalaya hot, garnished with green onions or parsley if desired. Enjoy every bite!
