Savory rotisserie chicken jambalaya has a way of making my kitchen feel like home, no matter what. I remember the first time I tried making it myself; the aroma of spices and the bubbling rice filled every corner, and I knew I’d stumbled upon something special. It’s such an easy rotisserie chicken jambalaya to whip up, perfect for those nights when you want something hearty without a lot of fuss. You’ll be amazed at how simple it is and wonder how to make rotisserie chicken jambalaya became your go-to. This dish is pure comfort in a bowl, and I can’t wait for you to experience it too. Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Easy Rotisserie Chicken Jambalaya
This jambalaya is a weeknight dinner dream! Here’s why it’ll become a favorite:
- Incredible flavor: The combination of savory chicken, rice, and spices is simply delicious.
- Super speedy prep: It’s a truly quick rotisserie chicken jambalaya that gets dinner on the table fast.
- Budget-friendly: Using store-bought rotisserie chicken makes this dish incredibly affordable.
- Family-approved: Even picky eaters will devour this comforting Southern classic.
- Healthy-ish: Packed with protein and veggies, it’s a more wholesome way to enjoy a hearty meal.
- Versatile: Easily adaptable to your taste, making it a go-to for a quick rotisserie chicken jambalaya.
- Minimal cleanup: Everything cooks in one pot – less washing up means more relaxing!
Rotisserie Chicken Jambalaya Ingredients
Gathering these rotisserie chicken jambalaya ingredients is the first step to a truly delicious meal. Using a pre-cooked rotisserie chicken makes this dish incredibly convenient, saving you so much time. I love that the rice absorbs all the wonderful flavors from the chicken broth and spices, creating a perfectly seasoned base. Fresh vegetables add both color and a lovely texture to the jambalaya.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil – for sautéing the veggies
- 1 large onion, chopped – the aromatic base
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped – for sweetness and color
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped – adds a vibrant hue and mild flavor
- 3 celery stalks, chopped – essential for that classic jambalaya flavor
- 4 cloves garlic, minced – because garlic makes everything better!
- 1 pound rotisserie chicken, shredded – the star of the show
- 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained – adds moisture and acidity
- 1 (10 ounce) can Rotel diced tomatoes and green chilies, undrained – for a little kick and depth
- 4 cups chicken broth – the liquid base for cooking the rice
- 2 cups uncooked long-grain white rice – absorbs all the delicious flavors
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme – a classic herb for Southern cooking
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano – complements the thyme beautifully
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper – adjust for your preferred spice level
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper – for a touch of warmth
- Salt to taste – to enhance all the flavors
- 1/2 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined (optional) – for extra protein and seafood flavor
- 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish) – adds a fresh finish
How to Make Savory Rotisserie Chicken Jambalaya
Whipping up this comforting dish is surprisingly simple. The key is building those flavors layer by layer, and with the help of rotisserie chicken, the rotisserie chicken jambalaya cooking time is cut significantly!
- Step 1: Grab a large pot or Dutch oven and heat 2 tablespoons olive oil over medium heat. Toss in 1 large onion, chopped, 1 green bell pepper, chopped, and 3 celery stalks, chopped. Let them soften up, stirring occasionally, for about 5-7 minutes. You’ll start to smell that delicious aroma building.
- Step 2: Now, add 4 cloves garlic, minced, and stir it around for just a minute until it’s fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic!
- Step 3: Time for the stars of the show! Stir in the 1 pound rotisserie chicken, shredded, 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained, and the 1 (10 ounce) can Rotel diced tomatoes and green chilies, undrained.
- Step 4: Pour in 4 cups chicken broth and add 2 cups uncooked long-grain white rice. Sprinkle in 1 teaspoon dried thyme, 1 teaspoon dried oregano, 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper, and 1/2 teaspoon black pepper. Give everything a good stir to combine.
- Step 5: Bring this glorious mixture to a boil. Once it’s bubbling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot tightly, and let it simmer. The total rotisserie chicken jambalaya cooking time for the rice is about 20-25 minutes. Resist the urge to peek too often – this helps the rice cook evenly.
- Step 6: If you’re adding shrimp, stir in the 1/2 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined during the last 5 minutes of cooking. They’ll cook quickly in the hot jambalaya.
- Step 7: Taste your creation and season with salt to taste.
- Step 8: Serve this amazing savory rotisserie chicken jambalaya hot, garnished with 2 green onions, sliced. Enjoy every comforting bite!
Pro Tips for the Best Rotisserie Chicken Jambalaya
Want to elevate your jambalaya game? Here are a few tricks I’ve picked up that make all the difference:
- Don’t skip sautéing the “holy trinity” (onion, bell peppers, celery) – this builds a crucial flavor base.
- Rinse your rice before adding it to the pot. This helps remove excess starch, preventing a gummy texture.
- Let the jambalaya rest for about 5-10 minutes after cooking before serving. This allows the flavors to meld and the rice to finish absorbing any remaining liquid.
- For an even deeper flavor, use a good quality chicken broth instead of water when cooking the rice.
What’s the secret to perfect Savory Rotisserie Chicken Jambalaya?
The secret to the best rotisserie chicken jambalaya lies in building layers of flavor from the start. Sautéing your aromatics until softened and fragrant, then adding the chicken and spices before the liquid, really unlocks that deep, savory profile.
Can I make Rotisserie Chicken Jambalaya ahead of time?
Yes, you absolutely can prepare the base of your rotisserie chicken jambalaya ahead of time! You can sauté the vegetables and add the chicken, tomatoes, and broth. Store it covered in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Just add the uncooked rice and cook according to instructions when you’re ready to serve.
How do I avoid common mistakes with Rotisserie Chicken Jambalaya?
A common pitfall is overcooking the rice, leading to a mushy texture. Make sure to stick to the recommended rotisserie chicken jambalaya cooking time and avoid peeking too often. Also, don’t be afraid to season generously with salt and pepper; jambalaya needs robust flavor!
Best Ways to Serve Rotisserie Chicken Jambalaya
This hearty savory rotisserie chicken jambalaya is a complete meal on its own, but I love pairing it with a few simple sides to really round out the meal. For a classic Southern touch, a crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette is fantastic. It cuts through the richness of the jambalaya beautifully. Another favorite of mine is a side of crusty French bread – perfect for soaking up any extra flavorful sauce. When I’m looking for more substantial rotisserie chicken jambalaya side dishes, I often opt for simple steamed green beans or collard greens. These pairings make for a truly satisfying dinner experience.
Nutrition Facts for Savory Rotisserie Chicken Jambalaya
This hearty dish is packed with flavor and satisfying ingredients. Here’s a breakdown of the approximate nutritional values per serving of this delightful savory rotisserie chicken jambalaya:
- Calories: 450
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 900mg
Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used and portion sizes.
How to Store and Reheat Rotisserie Chicken Jambalaya
This delicious savory rotisserie chicken jambalaya makes for fantastic leftovers, proving it’s a perfect quick meal for busy days. Once your jambalaya has cooled down to room temperature, which usually takes about an hour or so, transfer it into airtight containers. You can store it safely in the refrigerator for about 3 to 4 days. If you want to keep this delightful dish for longer, freezing is a great option. Pack it into freezer-safe containers or bags, and it will last for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, the best way to reheat is gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. You can also microwave it, covered, for a minute or two, stirring halfway!
Frequently Asked Questions About Savory Rotisserie Chicken Jambalaya
What is Savory Rotisserie Chicken Jambalaya?
What is rotisserie chicken jambalaya? It’s a comforting, one-pot Southern dish where tender, shredded rotisserie chicken is simmered with rice, vegetables like onions, bell peppers, and celery, and a flavorful broth seasoned with spices like thyme, oregano, and cayenne. It’s a heartier, quicker take on traditional jambalaya, making it a fantastic weeknight meal.
Why is Savory Rotisserie Chicken Jambalaya popular?
Why is rotisserie chicken jambalaya popular? It’s incredibly satisfying and packed with flavor, offering that delicious Southern comfort food experience. The use of rotisserie chicken significantly cuts down on prep time, making it an accessible and delicious meal for busy families. Plus, its adaptability means you can easily tweak the spice level or add extra veggies, making it a universally loved dish.
Can I use a different type of chicken for this jambalaya?
While rotisserie chicken is perfect for its convenience and pre-cooked tenderness, you can certainly use other cooked chicken. Leftover baked chicken or chicken breasts simmered and shredded would work well. Just ensure the chicken is cooked through before adding it to the jambalaya.
How do I make this jambalaya spicier?
To turn up the heat in your savory rotisserie chicken jambalaya, you have a few options. Increase the amount of cayenne pepper, add a pinch of red pepper flakes along with the other spices, or use a spicier variety of diced tomatoes and green chilies like Rotel. You could even add a dash of your favorite hot sauce at the end!
Variations of Rotisserie Chicken Jambalaya You Can Try
This recipe is wonderfully adaptable, and exploring different rotisserie chicken jambalaya variations can bring exciting new flavors to your table. For those who love a bit of heat, easily transform this into a spicy rotisserie chicken jambalaya by increasing the cayenne pepper or adding a dash of hot sauce. If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, simply omit the chicken and shrimp and add extra vegetables like corn, peas, or even some diced smoked tofu for a hearty meatless meal.
- Spicy Kick: Amp up the heat by adding extra cayenne pepper or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes when you add the other spices.
- Seafood Lover’s Dream: While optional, adding both shrimp and perhaps some smoked sausage or andouille sausage can create a richer, more complex flavor profile.
- Vegetarian Delight: Skip the chicken and shrimp. Sauté extra vegetables like corn and peas, and perhaps add some diced bell peppers or even smoked tofu for a satisfying meatless version.
- Creamy & Cheesy: Stir in a handful of shredded cheddar cheese at the very end until melted for a decadent, cheesy twist.

Savory Rotisserie Chicken Jambalaya: 1 Pot Wonder
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6–8 servings 1x
- Diet: None
Description
A rich and flavorful Southern-style jambalaya made with tender rotisserie chicken and seasoned rice. This dish is a comforting and easy-to-make meal perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 3 celery stalks, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pound rotisserie chicken, shredded
- 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 (10 ounce) can Rotel diced tomatoes and green chilies, undrained
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups uncooked long-grain white rice
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Salt to taste
- 1/2 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined (optional)
- 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add onion, bell peppers, and celery. Cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add garlic and cook for 1 minute more until fragrant.
- Stir in the shredded rotisserie chicken, diced tomatoes, Rotel tomatoes, chicken broth, rice, thyme, oregano, cayenne pepper, and black pepper.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and liquid is absorbed.
- If using shrimp, stir them in during the last 5 minutes of cooking.
- Season with salt to taste.
- Garnish with sliced green onions before serving.
Notes
- For a spicier jambalaya, add more cayenne pepper or a pinch of red pepper flakes.
- You can add other vegetables like corn or peas.
- This recipe is easily customizable with your favorite spices.
- Leftovers store well and can be reheated.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Southern
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 900mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
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