Chicken Jambalaya

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Brown Chicken and Sausage

In a medium-sized pan, add in smoked sausage and cook for about 4-5 minutes. Remove and add in the diced chicken seasoned with salt and pepper to taste, cook using the fat released from the sausage to brown the chicken, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside.

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Sauté Vegetables and Toast Rice

In the same pan, add the chopped onion, bell pepper, and celery. Sauté for 5 minutes until the vegetables are softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Stir in the uncooked rice, Cajun seasoning, paprika, and dried thyme. Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently, to toast the rice and coat it with the spices.

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Add Liquid and Simmer

Pour in the diced tomatoes and chicken broth. Stir well to combine, making sure the rice is submerged in the liquid. Return the cooked chicken and smoked sausage to the pan. Bring to a boil, cover, and simmer on low heat for about 20-25 minutes, or until the rice is fully cooked and has absorbed most of the liquid. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. If needed, add a bit more broth or water if the mixture becomes too dry.

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Serve

Once the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed, remove the pan from heat, optionally garnish with sliced green onions and chopped parsley before serving.