Introducing the delectable “Express Jambalaya” – a savory delight that combines the essence of Creole cuisine with the convenience of a one-dish meal, perfect for those busy weeknights when you crave something comforting yet quick to prepare. 🍽️
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 packet Spanish rice mix
- 2 cups water
- 1 can chunky tomatoes with crushed red peppers
- 1/2 Polish sausage
Instructions:
1. Prep Chicken:
- Begin by heating a skillet over medium-high heat.
- Cook the chicken breasts until they attain a light brown hue, ensuring they’re thoroughly cooked. Once done, remove them from the skillet and set them aside momentarily.
2. Prepare Rice:
- Using the same skillet, add the Spanish rice mix (without the seasonings) and cook it until it achieves a similar light brown color. This step enhances the nutty flavor of the rice.
3. Add Liquid Ingredients:
- Gradually pour in 2 cups of water into the skillet, followed by the chunky tomatoes with crushed red peppers. If you’re unable to find the specific variety, regular chunky tomatoes can suffice, but do sprinkle in some crushed red peppers for that characteristic kick.
4. Bring to a Boil:
- Increase the heat to bring the mixture to a gentle boil, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully.
5. Incorporate Sausage and Chicken:
- Once the mixture is simmering, reintroduce the cooked chicken breasts back into the skillet, along with the sliced Polish sausage. These ingredients infuse the dish with rich meaty goodness.
6. Simmer:
- Reduce the heat to low, covering the skillet, and let the jambalaya simmer gently for 15-20 minutes. During this time, remember to stir occasionally to ensure even cooking and absorption of the flavors.
7. Final Touches:
- As the liquid gradually reduces and is absorbed by the rice, and the chicken cooks through, you’ll notice the enticing aroma filling your kitchen. Keep simmering until the chicken is no longer pink in the center and the liquid is mostly absorbed.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
- Once ready, remove the skillet from the heat and uncover the steaming, flavorful jambalaya. Spoon it onto plates, ensuring each serving has a generous portion of chicken, sausage, and rice. Garnish with freshly chopped herbs if desired, and serve hot.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
- Calories: 314.6
- Total Fat: 17.8g
- Saturated Fat: 6.2g
- Cholesterol: 108.1mg
- Sodium: 575.8mg
- Carbohydrates: 0.9g
- Fiber: 0g
- Sugar: 0g
- Protein: 35.2g
Recipe Notes:
- This Express Jambalaya recipe offers a delightful blend of flavors, with the chicken and sausage infusing the dish with hearty goodness, while the rice absorbs all the savory juices, resulting in a truly satisfying meal.
- Feel free to customize the recipe to suit your taste preferences. You can adjust the spice level by adding more or less crushed red peppers, or even incorporate your favorite vegetables for added texture and nutrition.
- Serve this dish with a side of crusty bread or a simple green salad to round out the meal and enjoy a complete dining experience that’s sure to please the whole family.
