If you think eating keto means giving up bold, comforting flavors—think again! Keto Jambalaya is a low-carb twist on the classic Louisiana favorite, packed with smoky sausage, juicy shrimp, and tender chicken, all simmered in a rich, spicy tomato broth. The best part? You won’t even miss the rice! Trust me, this one’s a keeper.
It’s hearty, satisfying, and full of Creole spice, making it the perfect one-pot meal for busy weeknights. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to make—so whether you’re a seasoned keto pro or just looking for a flavorful, healthy dinner, this dish has you covered.
Why You’ll Love Keto Jambalaya
Big Bold Flavors
This dish is loaded with smoky, spicy, and savory flavors that will keep you coming back for more.
Low-Carb & Keto-Friendly
By swapping out traditional rice for cauliflower rice, you get all the goodness of jambalaya without the carbs.
One-Pot Wonder
Minimal cleanup, maximum flavor! Everything comes together in a single pot, making weeknight cooking a breeze.
Protein-Packed
With chicken, sausage, and shrimp, this meal is loaded with protein to keep you full and energized.
Customizable Heat
Love spice? Add extra cayenne or hot sauce! Prefer it milder? Adjust the seasoning to your liking.
Ingredients in Keto Jambalaya
Here’s what makes this dish so flavorful:
Andouille Sausage – Adds smoky, spicy goodness. You can also use smoked sausage if preferred.
Chicken Breast or Thighs – Tender, juicy, and packed with protein.
Shrimp – Brings that classic seafood touch to jambalaya.
Cauliflower Rice – The perfect low-carb alternative to traditional rice. It soaks up all the delicious flavors!
Bell Peppers – A mix of red, green, and yellow peppers adds natural sweetness and crunch.
Celery – Essential for that authentic Cajun flavor.
Onion – Adds depth and sweetness to balance the spice.
Garlic – Because everything is better with garlic!
Diced Tomatoes – Provides a rich, slightly tangy base.
Chicken Broth – Enhances the flavor and keeps everything juicy.
Cajun Seasoning – The star spice blend that gives jambalaya its signature kick.
Paprika & Cayenne – For extra warmth and depth.
Bay Leaf – A little touch of earthy, herbal goodness.
Olive Oil or Butter – For sautéing and adding richness.
Salt & Pepper – Simple seasonings to balance the flavors.
(Note: The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)
Instructions
Let’s bring this keto-friendly jambalaya to life!
Sauté the Sausage & Chicken
Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add sliced andouille sausage and diced chicken, cooking until browned. Remove and set aside.
Cook the Veggies
In the same pot, sauté the onions, bell peppers, celery, and garlic until softened and fragrant.
Add the Tomatoes & Broth
Stir in the diced tomatoes, chicken broth, Cajun seasoning, paprika, cayenne, and bay leaf. Let it simmer for about 10 minutes to build flavor.
Return the Protein & Add Shrimp
Return the sausage and chicken to the pot, then add the shrimp. Cook for another 5 minutes, or until the shrimp is pink and fully cooked.
Stir in the Cauliflower Rice
Add the cauliflower rice and mix well. Let it cook for a few minutes until heated through and slightly tender.
Final Touches
Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Remove the bay leaf and give everything one last stir.
Serve & Enjoy
Garnish with fresh parsley and a squeeze of lemon for extra brightness. Serve hot and enjoy this low-carb comfort dish!
How to Serve Keto Jambalaya
This dish is a full meal on its own, but here are some great ways to serve it:
- With Extra Heat – A drizzle of hot sauce takes it up a notch!
- With Keto Bread – A slice of low-carb garlic bread is perfect for soaking up the flavorful broth.
- With a Side Salad – A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette balances the spice.
- Topped with Avocado – Creamy avocado slices add a cool contrast to the bold flavors.
Additional Tips
Make It Even More Keto-Friendly
Double the shrimp and reduce the tomatoes slightly for an ultra-low-carb version.
Swap the Protein
Try using turkey sausage, scallops, or even beef for a different twist.
Make It Ahead
Jambalaya tastes even better the next day! Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Storage Tips
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave, adding a splash of broth if needed.
FAQ
Q1: Can I use frozen shrimp?
A1: Yes! Just thaw them first and pat dry before adding them to the dish.
Q2: Is there a dairy-free option?
A2: Yes! Just use olive oil instead of butter.
Q3: Can I make this spicier?
A3: Absolutely! Add extra cayenne, hot sauce, or sliced jalapeños.
Q4: What’s the best way to store leftovers?
A4: Keep them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Q5: Can I freeze Keto Jambalaya?
A5: Yes! Freeze it in portions for up to 2 months. Just reheat and enjoy!
Q6: Can I make this in a slow cooker?
A6: Definitely! Sauté the sausage and chicken first, then add everything except the shrimp and cauliflower rice. Cook on low for 4-6 hours, then add the shrimp and cauliflower rice in the last 30 minutes.
Q7: What if I don’t like cauliflower rice?
A7: You can leave it out or use finely chopped zucchini for a different texture.
Q8: Can I use store-bought Cajun seasoning?
A8: Yes! Just check the label to make sure it’s keto-friendly and doesn’t contain added sugar.
Q9: What’s the best substitute for andouille sausage?
A9: Smoked sausage, chorizo, or kielbasa work well as alternatives.
Q10: Can I add more veggies?
A10: Of course! Mushrooms, okra, or spinach make great additions.
Final Thoughts
Keto Jambalaya is proof that eating low-carb doesn’t mean sacrificing bold flavors. This dish is spicy, smoky, satisfying, and perfect for anyone looking to enjoy a comforting meal while staying on track with their keto goals. Give it a try—you won’t regret it!
Print
Keto Jambalaya
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This keto jambalaya is a flavorful, low-carb, high-protein dish packed with spicy Cajun flavors. Made with chicken, shrimp, and sausage, it’s a delicious one-pot meal that’s both gluten-free and perfect for a healthy weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 6 oz andouille sausage, sliced
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs, diced
- 1/2 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1/2 cup celery, diced
- 1/2 cup green bell pepper, diced
- 1/2 cup red bell pepper, diced
- 1/2 cup onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 1 1/2 cups cauliflower rice
- 1 1/2 cups chicken broth
- 1 tsp Cajun seasoning
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tbsp butter
- Juice of 1/2 lemon
Instructions
- Cook the Sausage & Chicken:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat.
- Add andouille sausage and cook until browned (about 3 minutes). Remove and set aside.
- In the same pan, add chicken and cook until browned (5-6 minutes). Remove and set aside.
- Sauté the Vegetables:
- Add celery, bell peppers, onion, and garlic to the pan.
- Cook for 3-4 minutes until softened.
- Simmer the Jambalaya:
- Add diced tomatoes, chicken broth, Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, thyme, salt, black pepper, cayenne, and Worcestershire sauce.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
- Add the Shrimp & Cauliflower Rice:
- Stir in shrimp, cauliflower rice, and butter.
- Cover and cook for 5 minutes until shrimp is pink and cooked through.
- Finish & Serve:
- Return sausage and chicken to the pan, stirring well.
- Squeeze in lemon juice and sprinkle with fresh parsley.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 720mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 37g
- Cholesterol: 195mg