New Orleans Jambalaya from BJ's Restaurant & Brewhouse features a savory blend of spicy Cajun sausage, tender chicken, succulent shrimp, bell peppers, onions, and tomatoes simmered with fragrant rice, delivering a hearty and vibrant dish rich in bold Louisiana flavors and colorful, rustic presentation.
Equipments
- Large skillet or Dutch oven
- Chef’s knife
- Cutting board
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
- Ladle
- Mixing bowls
- Plate or tray (for holding prepped ingredients)
Ingredients
- 1/2 lb (225g) Cajun sausage
- 1/2 lb (225g) boneless, skinless chicken breast
- 1/2 lb (225g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 green bell pepper
- 1 red bell pepper
- 1 medium onion
- 3 cloves garlic
- 1 can (14.5 oz/410g) diced tomatoes
- 2 cups long grain rice
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 green onions (for garnish)
- Fresh parsley (for garnish)
Fresh shrimp should be peeled and deveined to ensure a tender texture and clean flavor in your jambalaya. Using both green and red bell peppers adds a vibrant color contrast and enhances the depth of the dish. Long grain rice is preferred for its ability to absorb the rich spices and broth without becoming mushy. Make sure to simmer the dish in chicken broth to infuse bold Louisiana flavors that mimic the authentic taste of New Orleans jambalaya. Your copycat version of New Orleans Jambalaya from BJ's Restaurant & Brewhouse will deliver a hearty, spicy, and colorful meal perfect for recreating that classic Cajun experience at home.
Instructions
- Instructions:
- Slice Cajun sausage into rounds.
- Cut chicken breast into bite-sized pieces.
- Peel and devein shrimp.
- Dice green bell pepper, red bell pepper, and onion.
- Mince garlic.
- Chop green onions and parsley for garnish; set aside.
- Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
- Add sausage and cook until browned; remove and set aside.
- Add remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil.
- Add chicken pieces; season with salt and pepper. Cook until browned and cooked through; remove and set aside.
- Sauté diced onion, green and red bell peppers in the same pan until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Stir in paprika, cayenne pepper, thyme, and oregano.
- Add rice; stir to coat with spices and vegetables.
- Pour in diced tomatoes (with juice) and chicken broth; mix well.
- Return sausage and chicken to the pan.
- Bring mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low.
- Cover and simmer for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Add shrimp; stir to combine.
- Cover and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, until shrimp are pink and rice is tender.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
- Remove from heat and let rest, covered, for 5 minutes.
- Fluff with a fork.
- Garnish with green onions and fresh parsley.
- Serve hot.
Substitution
New Orleans Jambalaya from BJ's Restaurant & Brewhouse copycat menu combines Cajun sausage, chicken, shrimp, bell peppers, onions, and tomatoes with seasoned rice for an authentic Louisiana taste. You can substitute Andouille sausage with smoked kielbasa or chorizo if unavailable, and frozen shrimp works well when fresh is out of reach. Long grain rice can be replaced with medium grain or jasmine rice, although cooking times may vary slightly. For a spicier kick, add extra cayenne pepper or hot sauce during the simmering process. Keep prepped ingredients organized on a tray to streamline cooking and ensure even layering of flavors.
Tips
Make sure to prep all ingredients before heating your skillet to streamline cooking and avoid overcooking seafood like shrimp, which should be added last to prevent toughness. Use a heavy-bottomed skillet or Dutch oven for even heat distribution and prevent burning the rice while simmering. Stirring occasionally during simmering helps prevent rice from sticking to the pan without releasing too much steam, which is crucial for properly cooked rice. Remember to let the jambalaya rest covered after cooking to allow flavors to meld and the rice to finish steaming, ensuring a perfect texture.
Nutritions
New Orleans Jambalaya from BJ's Restaurant & Brewhouse provides a balanced mix of protein from Cajun sausage, chicken breast, and shrimp, supporting muscle maintenance and repair. The inclusion of bell peppers and onions adds dietary fiber, vitamins A and C, and antioxidants, enhancing immune function and digestive health. Long grain rice serves as a carbohydrate source, fueling your energy needs throughout the day. Olive oil contributes heart-healthy monounsaturated fats, complementing the dish's overall nutrient profile for a satisfying and wholesome meal.
Storage
Store your New Orleans Jambalaya in an airtight container and refrigerate within two hours of cooking to maintain freshness and prevent bacterial growth. Consume within 3 to 4 days for optimal taste and safety. For longer storage, freeze the jambalaya in a freezer-safe container, where it will remain good for up to 3 months.
Variation or Alternatives
For a variation, substitute Andouille sausage for Cajun sausage to introduce a smokier, spicier flavor profile. You can swap the long grain rice with brown rice or quinoa for a heartier texture or added nutritional value. If you prefer a milder dish, reduce cayenne pepper to 1/4 teaspoon or omit it entirely. Your jambalaya can also be enriched by simmering the rice in homemade seafood stock instead of chicken broth, amplifying the dish's depth of flavor.
Allergies
Your New Orleans Jambalaya from BJ's Restaurant & Brewhouse contains shrimp, which is a common shellfish allergen that may cause severe reactions in sensitive individuals. The dish also includes Cajun sausage and chicken, which could contain other allergens like soy, wheat, or dairy depending on the specific preparation. Bell peppers, onions, and garlic are less common allergens but may still cause sensitivities.
Why this recipe?
BJ's Restaurant & Brewhouse New Orleans Jambalaya stands out for its authentic blend of Cajun spices, smokey sausage, tender chicken, and perfectly cooked rice. The dish's rich, layered flavors deliver a true taste of Southern comfort, making it a favorite among guests seeking bold, hearty meals. Your taste buds will appreciate the balance of heat and savory depth, reflecting careful preparation and high-quality ingredients. Trying to recreate this copycat recipe lets you enjoy a beloved classic anytime while tailoring the spice levels to your preference.