The Best Bulgur Jambalaya Ever
A delightful twist on traditional jambalaya, Bulgur Jambalaya combines proteins, veggies, and spices for a quick, nutritious meal.

Bulgur Jambalaya is a delightful twist on the traditional jambalaya, offering a unique combination of flavors and textures that can turn any ordinary meal into a gourmet experience. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners, family gatherings, or any occasion when you want to impress without spending hours in the kitchen. The use of bulgur not only adds depth to the dish but also makes it a healthier option compared to some classic recipes. I love this dish because it’s packed with protein and veggies, making it both nutritious and satisfying. You may also find Crock Pot Jambalaya 2 useful.
Why make this recipe
When you choose to prepare Bulgur Jambalaya, you’re not only opting for a dish that’s delicious, but you’re also embracing a multitude of benefits. This recipe is quick to make, budget-friendly, and a fantastic way to put a healthy spin on comfort food. The blend of Cajun spices, chicken, sausage, and colorful vegetables creates a harmonious flavor profile that appeals to both kids and adults. You may also find Crock Pot Jambalaya useful.
How to make Bulgur Jambalaya
The process of making Bulgur Jambalaya is straightforward and approachable. You’ll sauté your proteins, add in your fresh vegetables, and finish with the bulgur and broth. This method allows for robust flavor development while keeping the preparation time manageable.
Ingredients
Gather these items to make your Bulgur Jambalaya:
- 8 ounces boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into 3/4-inch pieces
- 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
- 2 teaspoons olive oil
- 6 ounces smoked turkey sausage, sliced
- 1 medium sweet red pepper, diced
- 2 celery ribs, diced
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 1/2 cup no-salt-added tomato sauce
- 1 cup bulgur
- 1 cup reduced-sodium chicken broth
- 3/4 cup water
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper, optional
Feel free to customize with veggies you have on hand or make this vegetarian by omitting the meat!
Directions
To prepare your Bulgur Jambalaya, follow these steps:
- Toss the chicken pieces with the Cajun seasoning to coat evenly.
- In a large saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat and sauté the chicken for 2-3 minutes until browned. Remove the chicken and set it aside.
- In the same pan, add the smoked turkey sausage and sauté for 1-2 minutes until it’s browned.
- Next, add the diced sweet red pepper, celery, and onion. Cook and stir for about 2 minutes until the vegetables start to soften.
- Stir in the tomato sauce and cook for another 30 seconds just to combine the flavors.
- Add the bulgur, chicken broth, water, chicken, and cayenne pepper if you’re using it. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer, covered, for about 10 minutes. Stir occasionally until the bulgur is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed.

01Ingredients
Protein and Seasoning
Vegetables
Base Ingredients
02Method
- Preparation
- Cooking
- Serving
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0 OF 7 DONE03Recipe notes
- 01Allow leftovers to cool before storing in an airtight container for up to three days in the refrigerator or freeze in portions for longer storage. Reheat thoroughly before serving.
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How to serve Bulgur Jambalaya
Bulgur Jambalaya is best served hot, straight from the pot. Garnish with chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness. You might also consider pairing it with a crisp green salad or some crusty bread to soak up the delicious juices.
How to store
To store leftovers, allow the Bulgur Jambalaya to cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to three days. For longer storage, consider freezing it in portions. Remember to reheat thoroughly before serving.
Variations
Don’t be afraid to get creative with your Bulgur Jambalaya! You might try adding black beans for an extra protein punch, or substitute the chicken with shrimp for a seafood twist. You can also experiment with different spices like smoked paprika or even add diced tomatoes for extra juiciness.
FAQs
Can I make Bulgur Jambalaya in advance?
Yes, you can prepare it ahead of time and simply reheat when you’re ready to serve.
What can I substitute for bulgur?
If bulgur isn’t available, you can use quinoa or brown rice as a suitable alternative, keeping in mind that cooking times may vary.
How can I make this dish spicier?
Increase the amount of Cajun seasoning and cayenne pepper to amplify the heat to your taste.
Conclusion
Bulgur Jambalaya is not only a delicious option for dinner, but it also brings together wonderful flavors in a healthy way. You can explore variations of this dish by checking out a couple of great resources. For more ideas, check out Bulgur Jambalaya Recipe: How to Make It – Taste of Home.
Crockpot & Slow Cooker
Dinner Bowls
Casseroles
