Bourbon Street Chicken & Shrimp from Applebee's features juicy grilled chicken and tender shrimp sauteed with garlic and Cajun spices, served on a bed of seasoned rice and topped with sauteed onions and mushrooms, delivering a flavorful Cajun-inspired dish with a savory and spicy kick.
Equipments
- Grill or grill pan
- Sauté pan or skillet
- Tongs
- Spatula
- Knife
- Cutting board
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring spoons
- Rice cooker or saucepan
- Serving plates
Ingredients
- 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 8 oz (225g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup sliced mushrooms
- 1 cup sliced yellow onion
- 2 cups cooked white rice
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- Lemon wedges (for serving)
When preparing Bourbon Street Chicken & Shrimp, using fresh, peeled, and deveined shrimp ensures a tender texture and even cooking. The blend of Cajun seasoning, paprika, garlic powder, and dried herbs creates the dish's signature spicy and savory flavor. Sauteing onions and mushrooms separately in butter enhances their richness and complements the grilled proteins. Measuring spices accurately helps balance the heat and aroma critical to an authentic taste. Your homemade version of Bourbon Street Chicken & Shrimp from Applebee's copycat menu captures the same bold Cajun essence and satisfying combination of textures.
Instructions
- Preheat grill or grill pan.
- In a mixing bowl, combine Cajun seasoning, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, oregano, black pepper, and salt.
- Coat chicken breasts with olive oil and half of the seasoning mixture.
- Coat shrimp with remaining seasoning mixture.
- Grill chicken for 6-7 minutes per side, until fully cooked.
- In a sauté pan, melt butter over medium heat.
- Add onions and mushrooms; sauté until softened.
- Add minced garlic; sauté 1-2 minutes.
- Add shrimp and cook until opaque and pink, about 2-3 minutes.
- Slice grilled chicken.
- Place cooked white rice on serving plates.
- Top rice with sliced chicken, sautéed shrimp, onions, and mushrooms.
- Sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley.
- Serve with lemon wedges.
Substitution
Bourbon Street Chicken & Shrimp from Applebee's copycat menu combines grilled chicken and sauteed shrimp with Cajun spices over seasoned rice, creating a robust and zesty meal. If large shrimp are unavailable, medium shrimp can be used without significantly altering the dish's texture or flavor. When a grill or grill pan is not accessible, searing the chicken in a hot skillet offers a suitable alternative to achieve a caramelized exterior. Substitute fresh herbs with dried ones by reducing the quantity by half, as dried herbs are more concentrated. Your choice of rice can be adjusted, with brown rice offering a nuttier taste and added fiber for a healthier twist.
Tips
Ensure the chicken is evenly coated with the Cajun seasoning for balanced flavor throughout. Use tongs to flip the chicken and shrimp carefully to avoid tearing the meat during grilling and sauteing. Your shrimp will cook quickly; watch for an opaque white color with pink edges to prevent overcooking and maintain tenderness. Rest the chicken for a few minutes after grilling to retain its juices before slicing and serving.
Nutritions
Bourbon Street Chicken & Shrimp from Applebee's provides a balanced mix of lean protein from grilled chicken breasts and shrimp, which supports muscle repair and growth. The dish contains approximately 450-550 calories per serving, with a moderate amount of healthy fats from olive oil and butter, contributing to essential fatty acid intake. Seasoned rice offers a carbohydrate source for energy, while mushrooms and onions add fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants that support immune health. Your meal is well-rounded to fuel your body while enjoying bold Cajun flavors.
Storage
Store leftover Bourbon Street Chicken & Shrimp in airtight containers to maintain freshness and prevent moisture loss. Refrigerate the dish within two hours of cooking and consume it within 3-4 days for optimal safety and flavor. To reheat, use a microwave or stovetop, ensuring the chicken and shrimp reach an internal temperature of 165degF (74degC) to avoid foodborne illness.
Variation or Alternatives
You can substitute the white rice with cauliflower rice for a low-carb alternative while maintaining the dish's texture. Swap yellow onions with red onions for a slightly sweeter and more vibrant flavor. Instead of grilling, sear the chicken and shrimp in a cast-iron skillet for a smoky, caramelized crust. For an extra kick, add a splash of hot sauce or cayenne pepper to the Cajun seasoning blend before cooking.
Allergies
You should be cautious if you have allergies to shellfish, as the dish contains shrimp, a common allergen. The recipe also includes dairy in the form of unsalted butter, which could affect those with lactose intolerance or milk allergies. Additionally, spices such as garlic powder, onion powder, and Cajun seasoning may trigger sensitivity in some individuals.
Why this recipe?
Bourbon Street Chicken & Shrimp from Applebee's is praised for its bold Cajun spices and tender grilled chicken paired with perfectly cooked shrimp, delivering a flavorful and satisfying meal. The dish features a rich blend of seasonings that create a savory, smoky taste, enhanced by sauteed onions and peppers for added texture and aroma. Many enjoy the balanced combination of protein and spices that feel both comforting and indulgent. You'll find recreating this recipe at home rewarding, offering a delicious taste experience with the flexibility to customize the heat and ingredients to your preference.