Jambalaya is a beloved dish that hails from Louisiana, combining the flavors of the South in a one-pot meal that’s perfect for gatherings, weeknight dinners, or simply a cozy night in. This Instant Pot Jambalaya Recipe brings together succulent chicken, spicy andouille sausage, and tender shrimp, all enveloped in fragrant rice and a medley of vegetables and spices. Using the Instant Pot not only speeds up the cooking process but also infuses the ingredients with rich flavors, making it a go-to recipe for anyone who appreciates a hearty meal.

Why This Instant Pot Jambalaya Recipe Stands Out

This Instant Pot Jambalaya Recipe stands out for its simplicity and depth of flavor. Cooking in the Instant Pot means you can achieve that slow-cooked taste in a fraction of the time. The combination of chicken, sausage, and shrimp provides a delightful mix of textures, while the spices and aromatics create a symphony of flavors that dance on your palate. Plus, it’s a one-pot dish, which means fewer dishes to wash and more time to enjoy your meal with loved ones.

What You’ll Need

4 tablespoons canola oil – for sautéing and flavor.
1 1/2 cups low sodium chicken broth – adds moisture and richness.
20 ounces canned diced tomatoes – the base of the sauce.
1 tablespoon liquid smoke – for that smoky flavor.
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce – adds depth and umami.
2 cups basmati or long grain rice – the heart of the dish.
2 skinless, boneless chicken breasts – cut into 1-inch chunks for protein.
1 pound andouille sausage – sliced for a spicy kick.
1 pound shrimp – thawed, peeled, and deveined for a seafood twist.
1 large onion – chopped for sweetness.
6 cloves garlic – minced for aromatic depth.
1 red bell pepper – finely chopped for color and sweetness.
1 green bell pepper – finely chopped for crunch.
2 stalks celery – thinly sliced for texture.
2 tablespoons Creole seasoning – the star of the spice blend.
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper – or more to taste for heat.
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme – for earthy flavor.
1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary – adds a piney note.
1 teaspoon dried oregano – for herby freshness.
2 bay leaves – for aromatic complexity.
Salt and pepper – to taste for seasoning.

Tools & Equipment Needed

Instant Pot – the star of the show for quick cooking.
Cutting board and knife – for chopping all your veggies and proteins.
Measuring cups and spoons – for accuracy in your ingredients.
Wooden spoon or spatula – for stirring and mixing.
Serving spoon – to dish out your delicious jambalaya.

Cooking Instant Pot Jambalaya Recipe: The Process

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Begin by setting your Instant Pot to the sauté function and adding the canola oil. Once the oil is hot, add the chopped onion, garlic, red and green bell peppers, and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes, or until the vegetables are softened and fragrant.

Step 2: Add the Meats

Next, add in the chicken chunks and sliced andouille sausage. Stir well to combine and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes until the chicken is lightly browned and the sausage is heated through.

Step 3: Incorporate the Spices

Sprinkle in the Creole seasoning, cayenne pepper, thyme, rosemary, oregano, and a bit of salt and pepper. Stir the mixture well, allowing the spices to coat the meats and vegetables for about 1 minute.

Step 4: Add the Rice and Liquids

Pour in the chicken broth, canned diced tomatoes (with their juices), liquid smoke, and Worcestershire sauce. Then, add the rice and bay leaves. Stir gently to combine, ensuring the rice is submerged in the liquid.

Step 5: Cook Under Pressure

Close the Instant Pot lid, making sure the valve is set to sealing. Set it to manual high pressure for 8 minutes. Once the cooking time is up, let it naturally release pressure for 10 minutes, then carefully switch to quick release to release any remaining steam.

Step 6: Add the Shrimp

After the pressure is fully released, open the lid and gently fold in the thawed shrimp. Close the lid for another 5 minutes to allow the shrimp to cook through with the residual heat.

Step 7: Final Touches

Remove the bay leaves and taste for seasoning. Adjust with more salt, pepper, or cayenne if desired. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or green onions if you like.

Year-Round Variations

Add your favorite vegetables like zucchini or peas for extra color and nutrients.
Substitute the andouille sausage with turkey sausage or chicken sausage for a lighter option.
Use different types of rice like brown rice—just adjust the liquid and cooking time accordingly.
For a vegan version, replace the chicken and sausage with plant-based proteins and use vegetable broth.

Watch Outs & How to Fix

When making this Instant Pot Jambalaya Recipe, keep an eye on the following:

Burn Notice: If you see a burn notice on your Instant Pot, it may be due to not enough liquid. Always ensure the rice is submerged in the broth.
Too Watery: If your jambalaya ends up too watery, you can sauté it for a few minutes after pressure cooking to evaporate some of the excess liquid.
Undercooked Rice: If the rice is undercooked after the first round, close the lid and let it sit for a few extra minutes to steam.
Overcooked Shrimp: To avoid rubbery shrimp, add them at the end and let them cook in the residual heat.

Save for Later: Storage Tips

Leftover jambalaya can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze in individual portions for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then microwave or heat on the stovetop until warmed through.

Quick Q&A

Can I make this jambalaya in advance?

Yes! You can prepare it ahead of time and store it in the fridge or freezer. Just reheat when you’re ready to eat!

Is it possible to make this dish spicier?

Absolutely! Feel free to increase the cayenne pepper or add hot sauce to the dish according to your spice preference.

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, but you will need to adjust the liquid and cooking time since brown rice takes longer to cook.

What can I serve with jambalaya?

Jambalaya is delicious on its own, but you can serve it with a side salad, cornbread, or crusty bread to soak up the flavorful juices.

In Closing

This Instant Pot Jambalaya Recipe is a fantastic way to bring the taste of New Orleans into your kitchen, delivering a hearty, satisfying meal that’s bursting with flavor. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, meal prepping for the week, or enjoying a quiet evening at home, this dish promises to be a crowd-pleaser. With a few simple ingredients and the magic of the Instant Pot, you can create a comforting, delicious jambalaya that will have everyone coming back for seconds. So grab your Instant Pot, gather your ingredients, and get ready to enjoy a taste of the South!