Instant Pot Jambalaya

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Instant Pot Jambalaya is the ultimate comfort food with a spicy, smoky flavor that’s sure to satisfy. The Instant Pot makes it incredibly easy to prepare, cutting down on the traditional long cooking time while still delivering that delicious, deep flavor. Whether you’re craving a flavorful dinner for your family or a meal to impress guests, this jambalaya is a great choice. With a balance of meats, veggies, and seasonings, it’s a well-rounded dish that will leave everyone coming back for more.

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1 pound chicken breast or thighs, diced

• 1/2 pound smoked sausage, sliced

• 1/2 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined

• 1 small onion, diced

• 1 bell pepper, diced

• 2 celery stalks, diced

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 1/2 cups long-grain white rice

• 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes

• 2 1/2 cups chicken broth

• 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning

• 1 teaspoon paprika

• 1/2 teaspoon thyme

• 1/2 teaspoon oregano

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• 1 bay leaf

• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Turn the Instant Pot to the “Sauté” function and heat the olive oil. Add the diced chicken and sausage, and cook for 5-7 minutes until browned. Remove from the pot and set aside.

2. In the same pot, add the onion, bell pepper, celery, and garlic. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened.

3. Stir in the rice, diced tomatoes (with juices), chicken broth, Cajun seasoning, paprika, thyme, oregano, salt, pepper, and bay leaf. Mix well.

4. Return the cooked chicken and sausage to the pot, then close the lid and set the Instant Pot to “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” for 8 minutes on high pressure.

5. Once the cooking cycle is complete, carefully release the pressure by using the quick release method.

6. Open the lid and add the shrimp to the pot. Stir to combine and allow the residual heat to cook the shrimp for 3-5 minutes, or until they are pink and opaque.

7. Discard the bay leaf and adjust seasoning to taste. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Servings and timing

• Servings: 6

• Preparation time: 10 minutes

• Cooking time: 15 minutes (plus pressure release time)

• Total time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Meat options: You can substitute the chicken or sausage with other proteins, such as andouille sausage, pork, or even crawfish for a more traditional New Orleans flavor.

• Vegetarian version: Skip the meat and shrimp, and add extra vegetables like okra, mushrooms, or zucchini for a vegetarian jambalaya.

• Spice level: If you prefer a spicier jambalaya, add chopped jalapeños or more cayenne pepper to the dish.

• Rice alternatives: You can use brown rice, but you will need to adjust the cooking time and liquid. Brown rice requires more liquid and a longer cooking time (about 22 minutes on high pressure).

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover jambalaya in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Reheating: Reheat the jambalaya in the microwave or on the stovetop. If the rice has absorbed too much liquid, add a splash of chicken broth or water when reheating.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just make sure to thaw them beforehand and add them to the Instant Pot as instructed.

2. Can I make this recipe without an Instant Pot?

Yes, you can make jambalaya on the stovetop or in a slow cooker. For stovetop cooking, follow the same steps but cook the dish for about 25-30 minutes on medium heat, until the rice is tender. In a slow cooker, combine all ingredients and cook on low for 4-6 hours.

3. What type of sausage is best for jambalaya?

Smoked sausage or andouille sausage is commonly used in jambalaya. Andouille sausage has a distinctive, smoky flavor that complements the dish well, but any smoked sausage will work.

4. Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, but keep in mind that brown rice takes longer to cook. If you use brown rice, you will need to adjust the cooking time to around 22 minutes on high pressure and increase the amount of liquid.

5. Can I make jambalaya ahead of time?

Yes, jambalaya can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors will deepen and develop, making it even better the next day!

6. Can I add other vegetables to the jambalaya?

Yes, feel free to add other vegetables such as okra, peas, or even mushrooms. Just chop them and add them along with the other veggies.

7. How can I make the jambalaya spicier?

Add more Cajun seasoning, a pinch of cayenne pepper, or a chopped jalapeño to the pot for extra heat.

8. Can I use a different type of rice?

Long-grain white rice is best for this recipe, but you can substitute with jasmine or basmati rice for a different texture and flavor. Avoid using short-grain rice, as it tends to be stickier.

9. What can I serve with jambalaya?

Jambalaya is a complete meal on its own, but you can serve it with a side of cornbread, a simple green salad, or sautéed vegetables.

10. Can I freeze leftover jambalaya?

Yes, jambalaya freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, then store it in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 2 months. Reheat in the microwave or stovetop with a little added liquid.

Conclusion

Instant Pot Jambalaya is a flavorful, easy-to-make dish that brings the tastes of New Orleans right to your home. With the convenience of the Instant Pot, this dish comes together quickly without sacrificing the depth of flavor that makes jambalaya so delicious. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or a gathering with friends, this hearty, satisfying meal will surely be a crowd-pleaser.