Kelly's Clean Kitchen Jambalaya: Easy, Healthy Recipe Step-by-Step

Kelly's Clean Kitchen: A Taste of New Orleans in Every Bite

Welcome to Kelly's Clean Kitchen, where we believe that delicious food doesn't have to be complicated or unhealthy. Today, we're excited to share our recipe for a classic New Orleans dish with a healthy twist - Kelly's Clean Kitchen Jambalaya. This dish is a perfect blend of Creole and Cajun flavors, packed with protein, vegetables, and a kick of spice that will leave your taste buds dancing.

What is Jambalaya?

Jambalaya is a rich, hearty stew that originated in Louisiana. It's a one-pot wonder that combines meat, seafood, vegetables, and rice in a flavorful broth. The dish is a testament to the melting pot that is New Orleans, with influences from French, Spanish, African, and Native American cuisines. Traditionally, jambalaya is made with a 'holy trinity' of onions, bell peppers, and celery, along with the 'holy trinity' of Cajun seasonings - thyme, oregano, and bay leaves.

Why Kelly's Clean Kitchen Jambalaya is Different

Our version of jambalaya is different from the traditional because we've lightened it up and made it healthier. We've reduced the amount of oil, used leaner proteins, and added more vegetables. We've also made it easy to customize based on your dietary preferences - you can make it vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free with just a few simple swaps. But don't worry, we haven't sacrificed any flavor in the process. This jambalaya is still packed with the bold, smoky flavors you expect from a New Orleans classic.

Ingredients You'll Need

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces (optional - can be omitted for a vegetarian version)
• 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined (optional - can be omitted or substituted with tofu for a vegetarian version)
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 large onion, diced
• 1 bell pepper, diced (any color)
• 1 stalk celery, diced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 can (14.5 oz) tomato sauce
• 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian version)
• 1 cup long-grain white rice
• 2 tsp Cajun seasoning (ensure it's gluten-free if necessary)
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 bay leaf
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Chopped fresh parsley and green onions, for garnish

Instructions

In a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken (if using) and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove the chicken from the pot and set aside.

In the same pot, add the onion, bell pepper, and celery. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened, about 5 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for another minute.

Stir in the diced tomatoes (with juice), tomato sauce, chicken broth, rice, Cajun seasoning, thyme, oregano, and bay leaf. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for 20 minutes, or until the rice is tender.

Stir in the cooked chicken (if using) and the shrimp (if using). Cook for another 5-7 minutes, or until the shrimp are pink and cooked through. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Remove the bay leaf and garnish with chopped fresh parsley and green onions. Serve hot, and enjoy a taste of New Orleans in every bite!

Nutrition Facts

Note: Nutrition facts are approximate and may vary based on the specific brands of ingredients used.