Chicken Jambaloga
A hearty baked chicken and sausage dish with flavorful rice, mushrooms, and herbs, perfect for comforting family dinners and gatherings with bold, savory tastes.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F.
- Combine all ingredients in a baking dish, stirring well.
- Bake uncovered for 1 hour and 15 minutes until cooked through.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using smoked paprika or a dash of hot sauce to enhance the dish's kick. If you don't have smoked sausage, any spicy sausage can work as a substitute. For a healthier version, you can use brown rice instead of white rice, but adjust the liquid and cooking time accordingly. This dish is similar to Surprise Chicken Casserole, so feel free to experiment with additional vegetables.
Serving Suggestions
This Chicken Jambaloga pairs beautifully with a fresh garden salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. For those who enjoy a bit of crunch, a side of Scalloped Celery can complement the rich flavors of the dish. For a hearty meal, consider serving it alongside cornbread or homemade rolls to soak up the delicious juices.
Storage & Reheating
To store leftovers, let the Chicken Jambaloga cool completely and transfer it to an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, place in the oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes, or microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally, until heated through. Adding a splash of chicken broth can help keep it moist.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chicken Jambaloga contains roughly 1119 calories, with 50g protein, 127g carbohydrates, and 61g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (282% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (132% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (117% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1564mg per serving (68% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, you can substitute brown rice for white rice, but it will require more liquid and a longer baking time. Brown rice typically takes about 45-50 minutes to cook, so you may need to adjust the liquid proportions and baking duration to ensure everything is cooked thoroughly.
Is there a vegetarian option for this recipe?
Absolutely! You can replace the chicken and sausage with your favorite plant-based proteins, such as tofu or tempeh, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Additionally, incorporate more vegetables like bell peppers and zucchini for added flavor and texture.
Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Yes, you can prepare Chicken Jambaloga in advance. Simply combine all the ingredients in the baking dish, cover tightly with foil, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Just remember to adjust the baking time slightly if baking straight from the fridge.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).