Easy Instant Pot Chicken & Sausage Jambalaya: An Incredible 7-Ingredient Recipe

Easy Instant Pot Chicken & Sausage Jambalaya is a delightful dish that satisfies cravings for hearty Southern cuisine without the hassle. This jambalaya recipe combines tender chicken, flavorful sausage, and aromatic spices, creating an amazing meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights. Cooking it in an Instant Pot saves both time and effort, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully while you focus on other things.

If you are seeking comfort food that is quick and easy to prepare, this Easy Instant Pot Chicken & Sausage Jambalaya is sure to become a favorite. Imagine sitting down to a bowl of this dish, with its rich colors and inviting aroma wafting through your kitchen. It’s a complete meal that is both filling and bursting with flavor, making it a fantastic option for everything from family dinners to casual gatherings.

In this article, we will explore why you’ll love this recipe, how to prepare it efficiently, and, of course, the step-by-step instructions that will guide you in making this delightful jambalaya. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this incredible dish that proves you don’t need a culinary degree to create something amazing!

Preparation and Cooking Time

Preparing and cooking the Easy Instant Pot Chicken & Sausage Jambalaya is efficient and straightforward. Here’s a breakdown of the total time you need to plan:

• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20 minutes
• Natural Pressure Release: 10 minutes
• Total Time: Approximately 40 minutes

This quick timeline makes it easy to plan your meals, especially when you need something delicious on a hectic day!

Ingredients

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 pound smoked sausage, sliced
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 1 bell pepper, diced (green or red)
• 2 cups long-grain rice, rinsed and drained
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your Easy Instant Pot Chicken & Sausage Jambalaya:

1. Sauté the Chicken: Set your Instant Pot to the sauté function. Add the chicken pieces and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the Sausage: Incorporate the sliced sausage and sauté for an additional 2-3 minutes until heated through.
3. Add Vegetables: Stir in the diced onion and bell pepper. Cook for about 2 minutes until they begin to soften.
4. Add Rice and Spices: Carefully add the rinsed rice and Cajun seasoning. Stir properly to combine all ingredients.
5. Pour in Chicken Broth: Add the chicken broth to the pot. Make sure the rice is submerged but do not stir once the broth is added.
6. Seal and Cook: Close the lid and set the valve to sealing. Cook on high pressure for 7 minutes.
7. Natural Pressure Release: Once cooking is complete, allow the Instant Pot to naturally release the pressure for about 10 minutes before manually releasing any remaining pressure.
8. Fluff and Serve: Open the lid carefully, fluff the jambalaya with a fork, and serve hot.

These straightforward steps will ensure that you have a delicious jambalaya ready to go with minimal effort!

How to Serve

Serving your Easy Instant Pot Chicken & Sausage Jambalaya can enhance the dish’s appeal and effectiveness. Here are some tips:

1. Presentation: Serve in deep bowls to highlight the vibrant colors. Consider garnishing with chopped green onions or a sprinkle of parsley for added visual appeal.
2. Pairings: This dish pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad and crusty bread to soak up any extra sauce. For a traditional touch, consider serving it with coleslaw.
3. Beverage Pairing: A chilled glass of white wine or iced tea complements the flavors beautifully.
4. Scoop or Serve: You can either serve it as a scoop from the pot or present it on a serving platter for guests to help themselves.

By focusing on how you serve this jambalaya, you can create an inviting atmosphere that makes mealtime special!

Additional Tips

• Use a Good Quality Sausage: Choose a smoked sausage that you’ll enjoy. It adds depth to the dish.
• Adjust Spice Levels: Depending on your preference, feel free to add more Cajun seasoning or include some cayenne pepper for extra heat.
• Add Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle some chopped parsley or thyme before serving for an aromatic touch.
• Experiment with Rice Types: While long-grain rice is traditional, consider brown rice for a healthier option, but remember to adjust the cooking time.
• Use a Protein Thermometer: Ensure your chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for safe consumption.

Recipe Variations

Get creative with your Easy Instant Pot Chicken & Sausage Jambalaya! Here are a few variations you might enjoy:

1. Seafood Option: Add shrimp or crab meat along with the other proteins for a delightful seafood jambalaya twist.
2. Vegetarian Version: Skip the chicken and sausage entirely, using additional vegetables, legumes, or tofu as protein substitutes.
3. Spicy Cajun Version: For those who love heat, incorporate diced jalapeños or use hot sausage and adjust the Cajun seasoning accordingly.
4. Rice Alternatives: Try quinoa or cauliflower rice for a low-carb version while still enjoying that jambalaya flavor.

Freezing and Storage

• Storage: Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This dish should maintain its flavor and texture for 3 to 4 days.
• Freezing: If you want to make a big batch, you can freeze portions of jambalaya. Just ensure it’s well-cooled before transferring to freezer-safe containers. It can last up to 3 months in the freezer.

Special Equipment

To make your Easy Instant Pot Chicken & Sausage Jambalaya smoothly, you will need a couple of essential items:

• Instant Pot: This is the star of the show that makes this dish quick and easy to prepare.
• Cutting Board and Knife: For dicing your veggies and proteins.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: Ensure you get the right proportions of ingredients.
• Spatula or Wooden Spoon: Use this to stir and mix your ingredients well.

Conclusion

The Easy Instant Pot Chicken & Sausage Jambalaya is a fantastic recipe that brings the flavors of Southern cuisine to your kitchen with minimal effort. With just seven ingredients and the help of an Instant Pot, you can create a hearty, satisfying meal that will delight your family and friends. Whether you’re hosting a casual gathering or cooking for a busy weeknight, this dish will impress with its rich flavor and vibrant colors. Don’t hesitate to experiment with variations, and make it your own. This jambalaya will surely become a go-to recipe in your collection!