Keto Jambalaya

Embark on a culinary journey with this Keto Jambalaya, a one-pot wonder that delivers all the bold, smoky flavors of a classic Cajun dish without the carbs. This recipe cleverly swaps traditional rice for cauliflower rice, creating a satisfying and rich meal packed with smoky sausage, juicy chicken, succulent shrimp, and a vibrant blend of vegetables. It proves that you can certainly enjoy hearty, flavorful comfort food while on a low-carb or ketogenic diet.

Ingredients & What You’ll Need

• Roasted Chicken (2-3 cups, chopped): The star protein; dark meat is a great option for its juiciness.
• Shrimp (1 lb): Peeled and deveined, they add a sweet, briny flavor.
• Andouille Sausage (1 lb, sliced): A classic smoky, spicy Cajun sausage that provides essential flavor.
• Bell Peppers (3, chopped): A mix of red and green peppers works best for color and flavor.
• Yellow Onion (1, chopped): A core aromatic that forms the base of the “Cajun trinity.”
• Celery (2-3 stalks, chopped): Adds a signature crunch and depth.
• Jalapeño Pepper (1, diced): An optional ingredient for those who enjoy a spicier kick.
• Butter (1-2 tbsp): Adds a rich flavor to the pan.
• Avocado Oil (1-2 tbsp): Use this for its high smoke point when searing.
• Dried Herbs (1 tsp each): Oregano and thyme are essential for classic jambalaya flavor.
• Cajun Seasoning (2-3 tsp): The heart of the dish, use your favorite blend.
• Hot All-Purpose Seasoning: Adjust to your preferred spice level.
• Chicken Base (1 tsp): A concentrated flavor builder for the broth.
• Garlic Paste (2 tsp) & Tomato Paste (1 tbsp): They provide umami and thicken the sauce.
• Canned Diced Tomatoes (1, 14 oz can): Adds body and a tangy sweetness.
• Chicken Broth (1 cup): Used for deglazing the pan and simmering the sauce.
• Cauliflower Rice (3-4 cups): The perfect low-carb substitute for rice.
• Smoked Paprika (1 tsp): A finishing spice that adds a layer of smokiness.
• Fresh Parsley (2 tbsp, chopped): A final garnish for color and freshness.

How to Make Keto Jambalaya

Making this low-carb jambalaya is a straightforward process that builds deep flavors in one single pot.

Searing the Proteins

First, heat a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add butter and avocado oil to the pan. Next, sear the sliced andouille sausage until it’s nicely browned and the fat has rendered. Use a slotted spoon to remove the sausage from the pan and then set it aside, reserving the drippings.

Building the Flavor Base

Add the chopped bell peppers, onion, celery, and jalapeño to the same skillet. Sauté them until tender, making sure they soak up the delicious sausage drippings. As you cook, sprinkle in the oregano, thyme, Cajun seasoning, hot all-purpose seasoning, and chicken base. Once the vegetables soften, add the garlic paste and tomato paste, stirring constantly for a minute to let the tomato paste caramelize slightly. Deglaze the pan by pouring in the canned diced tomatoes and chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom.

Combining the Main Ingredients

Now, return the seared sausage and the roasted chicken to the skillet, stirring to combine all the ingredients with the sauce. At this point, microwave the cauliflower rice until it is tender. Be sure to drain any excess moisture from the rice before adding it to the skillet. Stir the cauliflower rice into the jambalaya mixture and then season generously with smoked paprika, adding more Cajun seasoning or salt to taste.

Cooking the Shrimp and Final Touches

Finally, you will cook the shrimp. Season the shrimp lightly with salt and pepper, then arrange them on top of the jambalaya mixture. Cover the skillet and let the residual heat steam the shrimp until they are pink and cooked through—this usually takes about 10–12 minutes. Finish the dish by sprinkling with fresh chopped parsley for a burst of color and flavor. Give it a final stir to distribute the shrimp evenly, then serve immediately.

Tips for the Perfect Keto Jambalaya

Adapt the Ingredients

This recipe is incredibly flexible. Feel free to use whatever proteins you have, such as smoked turkey sausage or leftover chicken thighs. You can also easily swap veggies based on what’s in your fridge.

Control the Spice Level

Adjust the heat by modifying the amount of jalapeño and Cajun seasoning. Omit the jalapeño for a milder dish or leave the seeds in for extra fire.

Prep the Cauliflower Rice

Frozen cauliflower rice is a great shortcut, but make sure to drain any excess moisture after microwaving. This step prevents the jambalaya from becoming watery.

Cooking Shrimp

Shrimp cook very quickly. To avoid a rubbery texture, you should always add them at the end of the cooking process and let the residual heat finish the job.

Adjust Seasoning

Because cauliflower rice is bland on its own, it’s a good idea to taste the jambalaya as you go. Add more seasoning, salt, or herbs to suit your personal palate.

Final Thoughts

Making healthy choices does not mean sacrificing flavor or satisfaction. This Keto Jambalaya demonstrates that you can enjoy the bold, comforting tastes of Cajun cuisine while still meeting your dietary goals. Its simple one-pot method, quick cooking time, and flexible ingredients make it a recipe you will undoubtedly return to time and again. Savor every smoky, spicy bite as you continue your journey to better health.