Description
This Jambalaya Foil Packets recipe offers a convenient and flavorful way to enjoy a classic Cajun-inspired dish with smoky kielbasa, tender shrimp, aromatic vegetables, and perfectly cooked rice all in individual foil packets. Ideal for grilling or baking, this recipe combines bold seasonings with easy prep and cleanup, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or outdoor cookouts.
Ingredients
Scale
Proteins
- 1 (14-ounce) package kielbasa smoked sausage, sliced into 1/2-inch thick coins
- 1/2 pound shrimp (31-40 count), peeled and deveined, tails off (thawed if frozen)
Vegetables and Aromatics
- 1 medium sweet onion, chopped
- 1 medium red bell pepper, chopped
- 2 ribs celery, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (15-ounce) can petite diced tomatoes with garlic and oregano, drained
- 2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh parsley
Other Ingredients
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1 1/2 teaspoons Cajun seasoning
- Kosher salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 cup instant rice (Minute® rice)
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
Instructions
- Preheat Grill or Oven: Preheat your grill or oven to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C) to ensure the cooking environment is hot and ready for the foil packets.
- Prepare Foil Sheets: Cut five large sheets of heavy-duty foil, approximately 12 by 17 inches each. Coat each sheet generously with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine sliced kielbasa, shrimp, olive oil, drained diced tomatoes, chopped sweet onion, red bell pepper, celery, minced garlic, Cajun seasoning, fresh parsley, salt, pepper, instant rice, and low-sodium chicken broth. Stir well to evenly distribute all components and seasonings.
- Assemble Foil Packets: Divide the combined mixture evenly among the foil sheets. Fold and seal each foil sheet into a packet, ensuring there is some space inside for steam to circulate.
- Cook Packets: Place the foil packets on a baking sheet if using the oven or directly on the grill grates. Cook for 25 to 30 minutes until the shrimp turn pink, the rice is cooked through, and the vegetables are tender. If grilling, flip the packets halfway through the cooking time for even heat distribution.
- Serve Carefully: Remove the packets carefully from the oven or grill. Open each packet cautiously to release steam, allow them to cool slightly before serving to ensure safety and optimal taste.
Notes
- Using heavy-duty foil is important to prevent leaks and allow for even cooking.
- Thaw frozen shrimp completely before use for best texture and uniform cooking.
- You can customize this recipe by adding other vegetables such as okra or swapping proteins like chicken or sausage varieties.
- Use instant rice as specified for quick cooking; regular rice will require longer cooking time.
- This recipe works well both indoors in the oven or outdoors on a grill, providing versatility.
- Adjust Cajun seasoning and salt to taste depending on your preference and dietary needs.
