15-Minute Easy Microwave Jambalaya
A quick weeknight version of the Louisiana classic that delivers authentic Creole flavors in under 15 minutes using your microwave. This simplified jambalaya combines smoky kielbasa, tender chicken, and instant rice with a robust base of stewed tomatoes and salsa for bold, satisfying flavor. Perfect for busy families who crave comfort food without the long stovetop cooking time. The frozen vegetable mix and pre-cooked proteins make this accessible any night of the week, while still capturing the essential spirit of traditional jambalaya.
Ingredients
- 1 cup frozen bell pepper and onion stir-fry, from 16-oz bag
- ½ cup thick & chunky salsa
- 1 can (14.5 oz) Mexican-style stewed tomatoes, undrained
- ¾ cup uncooked instant white riceinstant brown rice1:1healthy
may need extra 1-2 minutes cooking
- ¼ lb cooked kielbasa or Polish sausage, cut into 1/2-inch-thick slicesandouille sausage1:1cajun
adds smoky heat
- 1 cup chopped cooked chicken
Instructions
- 1
Mix bell pepper and onion stir-fry, salsa and tomatoes in microwavable casserole
- 2
Cover and microwave on High 3 to 5 minutes, stirring once or twice, until mixture boils and vegetables are crisp-tender
- 3
Stir in rice
- 4
Cover and microwave on High 2 minutes, stirring once halfway through
- 5
Gently stir in kielbasa and chicken
- 6
Cover and microwave on High 2 to 3 minutes, stirring once or twice, until meats are thoroughly heated
Tips
Use a deeper casserole dish to prevent overflow during the initial boiling stage
Let stand 2-3 minutes after final heating to allow flavors to meld and rice to fully absorb liquid
Stir gently in final step to avoid breaking up the rice grains
Good to Know
Refrigerate leftovers up to 3 days in covered container
Can prep ingredients up to 1 day ahead, store separately and combine when ready to cook
Serve hot directly from casserole dish, garnish with green onions or hot sauce if desired
Common Mistakes
Use microwave-safe dish to avoid cracking
Don't skip stirring steps to prevent hot spots and ensure even heating
Let mixture boil fully in first step to properly soften vegetables
Substitutions
may need extra 1-2 minutes cooking
saute 1 minute first in microwave
FAQ
Can I use regular long-grain rice instead of instant?
No, regular rice won't cook properly in this short microwave time. Stick with instant rice or increase liquid and cooking time significantly.
What if I don't have Mexican-style stewed tomatoes?
Regular stewed tomatoes work fine, just add a pinch of cumin and chili powder to boost the flavor profile.
How long will leftovers keep in the refrigerator?
Store covered in refrigerator up to 3 days. Reheat in microwave, adding a splash of water if mixture seems dry.