A flavorful and hearty dish inspired by Creole cuisine, perfect for a family dinner.
Melt the butter in a large pot over medium heat.
Using unsalted butter allows you to control the saltiness of the dish.
Add the onion, bell pepper, celery, and garlic to the pot and sauté until softened.
Sautéing the vegetables enhances their natural sweetness and flavor.
Add the chicken, shrimp, bay leaves, and thyme to the pot and cook until the chicken is no longer pink and the shrimp is opaque.
Cut the chicken into even pieces for uniform cooking.
Stir in the paprika, tomatoes, chicken broth, and Worcestershire sauce.
Using smoked paprika adds a depth of flavor to the dish.
Add the sausage and ham, stirring well.
Slice the sausage thinly for even distribution.
Stir in the scallions, salt, and rice, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and cook until the rice is tender.
Avoid lifting the lid during cooking to ensure the rice cooks evenly.
Serve the dish warm, garnished with additional scallions if desired.
Pair with crusty bread for a complete meal.