Creating Cajun Chicken Jambalaya is easy when you follow these steps:

1. Heat Oil: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat vegetable oil over medium heat.
2. Brown Chicken: Add the diced chicken thighs and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken and set aside.
3. Cook Sausage: In the same pot, add the sliced smoked sausage and cook until browned, about 4-5 minutes. Remove and set aside with the chicken.
4. Sauté Vegetables: Add the chopped onion, bell pepper, and celery to the pot. Sauté for about 5 minutes or until softened.
5. Add Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute until fragrant.
6. Combine Ingredients: Return the chicken and sausage to the pot. Add the diced tomatoes with their juice, rice, chicken broth, Cajun seasoning, thyme, and bay leaf.
7. Simmer: Bring the mixture to a boil. Then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for about 20-25 minutes, or until the rice is tender and has absorbed the liquid.
8. Season to Taste: Remove the bay leaf and season with salt and pepper to taste.
9. Garnish: Serve hot, garnished with chopped green onions. Optionally, provide hot sauce on the side for those who like an extra kick.

These simple steps lead to a satisfying and flavorful dish that will impress anyone lucky enough to taste it.