Can I use a different cut of chicken?

Yes, thighs or drumsticks work well and add more flavor and tenderness to the dish.

Is the dish gluten-free?

It's naturally gluten-free if you ensure the broth and Cajun seasoning have no gluten-based ingredients.

What vegetables can I add for more flavor?

Diced bell peppers, celery, or onions enhance the traditional Cajun taste.

How can I adjust the spiciness?

Increase the Cajun seasoning or add a dash of hot sauce to give the dish an extra kick.

Can I substitute the rice?

Long grain white rice works best, but brown rice or quinoa can be used with adjusted liquid and cooking time.

What garnish is recommended?

Fresh parsley and sliced green onions boost flavor and add color to the finished meal.

Budget Chicken Jambalaya Cajun

Featured in: One-Skillet Wonders

Savor a warming Cajun-inspired meal featuring tender chicken, rice, and okra, all simmered together with aromatic Cajun spices for bold flavors. This one-pot southern classic is ideal for quick weeknight dinners, offering a balance of protein, vegetables, and satisfying carbs. Perfectly seasoned and garnished with fresh herbs, each forkful brings a taste of comforting southern cuisine without breaking your budget. Preparation is simple and quick, making it accessible for home cooks. Customize with extra vegetables or spice to suit your palate and enjoy a nourishing, high-protein main dish.

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By Jackson Reed

Updated on Fri, 31 Oct 2025 16:28:00 GMT

hearty Budget Chicken Jambalaya in a colorful pot, garnished with fresh parsley | smokyfeast.com

A hearty, flavorful one-pot meal featuring chicken, rice, okra, and bold Cajun spices & affordable and delicious.

On busy weeknights, this chicken jambalaya is my go-to recipe. The savory flavors and simple method always give me tasty results without spending a fortune.

Ingredients

Chicken breasts: 2, diced
Frozen okra: 2 cups
Uncooked rice: 1 cup
Cajun seasoning: 2 tsp
Water or broth: 2 cups
Salt and pepper: to taste
Garnish: Fresh parsley or green onions

Instructions

Brown the Chicken:: Heat a large pot over medium heat. Add diced chicken pieces and cook for about 5 minutes until golden.
Add Remaining Ingredients:: Add rice, okra, Cajun seasoning, and water or broth. Stir well to combine everything together.
Simmer:: Bring to a boil, then cover and reduce the heat. Simmer for around 18 minutes until the rice is cooked and liquid absorbed.
Finish and Garnish:: Fluff with a fork and garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or green onion.

My kids love scooping up this jambalaya after soccer practice & it always brings everyone to the table in minutes.

Required Tools

Large pot or Dutch oven, cutting board, and knife are all you need for this recipe.

Allergen Information

This recipe is suitable for most diets & just check Cajun seasoning for allergens.

Nutritional Information

Per serving: Calories 370, Fat 6g, Carbohydrates 42g, Protein 32g.

steaming bowl of Budget Chicken Jambalaya filled with chicken, rice, and vibrant okra | smokyfeast.com

This Budget Chicken Jambalaya is perfect for a weeknight or anytime you want Southern comfort food that's both easy and affordable.

Kitchen Questions

→ Can I use a different cut of chicken?: Yes, thighs or drumsticks work well and add more flavor and tenderness to the dish.
→ Is the dish gluten-free?: It's naturally gluten-free if you ensure the broth and Cajun seasoning have no gluten-based ingredients.
→ What vegetables can I add for more flavor?: Diced bell peppers, celery, or onions enhance the traditional Cajun taste.
→ How can I adjust the spiciness?: Increase the Cajun seasoning or add a dash of hot sauce to give the dish an extra kick.
→ Can I substitute the rice?: Long grain white rice works best, but brown rice or quinoa can be used with adjusted liquid and cooking time.
→ What garnish is recommended?: Fresh parsley and sliced green onions boost flavor and add color to the finished meal.

Budget Chicken Jambalaya Cajun

Savor hearty Cajun chicken, rice, and okra cooked together for a quick, flavorful one-pot Southern meal.

Prep duration

10 min

Heat time

25 min

Complete duration

35 min

Created by Jackson Reed

Style One-Skillet Wonders

Skill Level Medium

Heritage Southern Cajun-Inspired

Output 4 Portions

Nutrition Labels No Dairy, No Gluten

What You'll Need

Protein

01 2 chicken breasts, diced

Vegetables

01 2 cups frozen okra

Pantry

01 1 cup uncooked rice

02 2 teaspoons Cajun seasoning

03 2 cups water or broth

04 Salt and pepper, to taste

Garnish

01 Fresh parsley or green onions, chopped

Method

Phase 01

Prepare Ingredients: Dice the chicken breasts and chop the parsley or green onions for garnish.

Phase 02

Brown Chicken: Heat a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add diced chicken and sauté for 5 to 6 minutes until golden brown.

Phase 03

Combine and Season: Add uncooked rice, frozen okra, Cajun seasoning, and water or broth to the pot. Stir well to combine all ingredients.

Phase 04

Simmer: Bring the mixture to a boil. Cover the pot with a lid, reduce heat to low, and simmer for 18 to 20 minutes, or until rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.

Phase 05

Finish and Serve: Fluff the jambalaya with a fork and season with additional salt and pepper if needed. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley or green onions before serving.

Kitchen Tools

Large pot or Dutch oven
Cutting board
Knife

Allergy Details

Always review ingredients for potential allergens and seek professional medical guidance if unsure.

Naturally gluten-free if prepared with certified GF broth. Cajun seasoning may include mustard or celery.

Nutrition Details (per portion)

Values shown are estimates only - please consult healthcare providers for specific advice.

Energy: 370
Fats: 6 g
Carbohydrates: 42 g
Proteins: 32 g