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Cajun Jambalaya Soup

A warm, hearty, high-protein soup featuring chicken, smoked sausage, vegetables, and rice simmered in a flavorful Cajun-spiced broth. This comforting soup delivers authentic Louisiana flavor in an easy weeknight format.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 portions
Course: Dinner, Main Course, Soup
Cuisine: American, Cajun, Southern
Calories: 375
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb chicken thighs cut into small pieces
  • 6 oz halal smoked sausage sliced
  • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
  • 1 onion diced
  • 1 bell pepper diced
  • 2 celery stalks sliced
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 14 oz diced tomatoes 1 can
  • 6 cups chicken broth
  • 1 cup cooked rice
  • 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning more to taste
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
  • salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 cup shrimp peeled and deveined, optional
  • fresh parsley for garnish
  • green onions for garnish

Equipment

  • large pot or Dutch oven
  • Wooden spoon
  • cutting board
  • Chef's knife

Method
 

  1. Heat vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chicken thighs and sliced sausage, cooking until browned, about 5 to 7 minutes.
  2. Add diced onion, bell pepper, celery, and minced garlic to the pot. Sauté until vegetables are softened and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
  3. Pour in diced tomatoes with their juices, chicken broth, Cajun seasoning, paprika, thyme, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
  4. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce heat to maintain a gentle simmer. Cook for 20 to 25 minutes to allow flavors to develop.
  5. Stir in cooked rice and simmer for an additional 5 minutes to heat through.
  6. If using shrimp, add them during the last 5 minutes of cooking until they turn pink and are cooked through.
  7. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. Ladle into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley and sliced green onions.

Notes

For a kid-friendly version, use only half a teaspoon Cajun seasoning. For extra heat, add cayenne pepper or hot sauce to taste. Soup can be made ahead and reheats beautifully. Best served with crusty bread or cornbread. Can substitute turkey or beef sausage for the smoked sausage.
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