Quinoa Jambalaya

Quinoa Jambalaya is a hearty and wholesome twist on the classic Cajun dish that’s packed with flavor and nutrition. This one-pot meal combines tender chicken, smoky sausage, and vibrant vegetables, all simmered with quinoa for a delightful and satisfying dish. Perfect for busy weeknights or a flavorful weekend feast, this recipe is easy to prepare and sure to please everyone at the table. The beauty of this Quinoa Jambalaya lies not only in its rich flavors but also in its adaptability—making it a fantastic choice for those looking to enjoy a comforting dish without compromising on health.

Why This Recipe Is Reliable

This Quinoa Jambalaya recipe is reliable for several reasons. First, it brings together simple, wholesome ingredients that are usually easy to find at your local grocery store. Second, it’s a one-pot meal, which means minimal cleanup—a major plus for busy cooks! Third, the flavors meld beautifully as everything cooks together, ensuring each bite is bursting with taste, while the quinoa provides a nutritious base that’s gluten-free and full of protein. Lastly, it’s a versatile recipe; you can easily adjust the spice levels, swap out proteins, or add more vegetables based on what you have on hand.

What Goes In

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cubed
• ½ cup diced smoked sausage (about 2 ounces)
• 1 cup diced green pepper
• 1 small yellow onion, minced
• 2 tablespoons minced garlic
• 1 cup quinoa
• 2 cups low-sodium chicken stock
• 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
• 15 ounces diced tomatoes
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon hot sauce, optional

What’s in the Gear List

• Large Pot or Dutch Oven: This will be your cooking vessel, allowing for even heat distribution.
• Chopping Board: A sturdy board for prepping your vegetables and proteins.
• Knife: A sharp knife will make chopping efficient and easy.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: For precision in your ingredient quantities.
• Spoon or Spatula: For stirring and keeping everything well mixed.

Quinoa Jambalaya Made Stepwise

Step 1: Heat the Oil

In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Allow it to warm up for about a minute.

Step 2: Sauté Chicken and Sausage

Add the 1 pound of cubed chicken breasts to the pot. Season with salt and pepper, and cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is browned on all sides. Next, add in the ½ cup of diced smoked sausage and continue cooking for another 3–4 minutes.

Step 3: Add Vegetables

Stir in the 1 cup of diced green pepper, 1 small minced yellow onion, and 2 tablespoons of minced garlic. Sauté the mixture until the vegetables are softened, about 4–5 minutes.

Step 4: Incorporate Quinoa and Seasoning

Add the 1 cup of quinoa to the pot, stirring to combine with the chicken and vegetable mixture. Sprinkle in the 1 tablespoon of Cajun seasoning and mix well.

Step 5: Add Liquids

Pour in the 2 cups of low-sodium chicken stock and the 15 ounces of diced tomatoes (with juices). Stir in the 1 teaspoon of Worcestershire sauce and give everything a good mix.

Step 6: Bring to a Simmer

Increase the heat until the mixture comes to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for about 15–20 minutes, or until the quinoa is fully cooked and the liquid has been absorbed.

Step 7: Final Touches

Once cooked, remove the pot from the heat. If desired, stir in the 1 teaspoon of hot sauce for an extra kick. Fluff the quinoa gently with a fork, and it’s ready to serve!

No-Store Runs Needed

• Olive oil
• Chicken breasts (can be frozen if needed)
• Smoked sausage (substitute with turkey or beef sausage if preferred)
• Green pepper (can substitute with any bell pepper)
• Onion and garlic
• Quinoa (a pantry staple)
• Chicken stock (homemade or store-bought)
• Cajun seasoning (or create your own blend with spices on hand)
• Diced tomatoes (canned variety works well)
• Worcestershire sauce
• Hot sauce (optional)

Cook’s Notes

This Quinoa Jambalaya is highly customizable! Feel free to add in your favorite vegetables or swap the proteins. To make it vegetarian, simply replace the chicken and sausage with a mix of hearty vegetables or beans. If you’re looking to cut back on carbs, consider using cauliflower rice instead of quinoa. Remember to taste as you go, adjusting the seasonings to match your preferences.

Store, Freeze & Reheat

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To freeze, portion out the jambalaya into freezer-safe containers, and it will last for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave until warmed through. You may need to add a splash of broth or water to prevent it from drying out during reheating.

Ask & Learn

Can I use brown rice instead of quinoa?

Yes, but you will need to adjust the cooking time and liquid amounts. Brown rice typically takes longer to cook than quinoa, so you might want to simmer it for 30–40 minutes instead.

What if I don’t have Cajun seasoning?

You can easily make your own Cajun seasoning by combining paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, thyme, oregano, and black pepper. Adjust the spice levels to your liking!

Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?

Absolutely! You can replace the chicken and sausage with a mix of beans, lentils, or a variety of vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, and spinach. Just be sure to incorporate a flavorful seasoning blend to keep it delicious!

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, Quinoa Jambalaya can be made ahead of time. It actually tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to meld. Just store it in the fridge and reheat when ready to enjoy!

Weekend Projects

• Vegetable Stir-Fry – A vibrant medley of your favorite veggies tossed in a savory sauce.
• Chicken Tacos – Easy-to-make tacos loaded with flavor and topped with fresh ingredients.
• Hearty Chili – A warm and comforting bowl of chili that’s perfect for sharing.
• Sweet Potato Casserole – A delicious side dish that’s both sweet and savory.

Make It Tonight

What are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, and whip up this delightful Quinoa Jambalaya for dinner tonight! This dish not only delivers on flavor but also provides a nourishing meal that everyone will love. Perfectly seasoned and beautifully colorful, it’s a dish that you can feel good about serving to your loved ones. Enjoy the comforting warmth of this easy-to-make meal, and savor every delicious bite.