Spicy Jambalaya from Yard House features tender shrimp, smoked sausage, and chicken simmered with bell peppers, onions, and Cajun spices over a bed of fluffy rice, delivering a vibrant and hearty Southern-inspired dish bursting with bold flavors.
Equipments
- Large pot or Dutch oven
- Chef’s knife
- Cutting board
- Wooden spoon
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
- Mixing bowls
- Saucepan (for rice)
- Ladle
- Serving spoon
- Tongs
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 8 oz (225g) smoked sausage, sliced
- 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 large onion, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 2 stalks celery, diced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (14.5 oz/410g) can diced tomatoes
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 2 teaspoons Cajun seasoning
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cups long-grain white rice
- 3 cups water (for rice)
- Chopped parsley (for garnish)
- Scallions (for garnish)
Using fresh shrimp and high-quality smoked sausage ensures the authentic smoky and spicy flavors characteristic of Spicy Jambalaya from Yard House. Boneless, skinless chicken breast allows for quick cooking and tenderness, while fresh vegetables like bell peppers, onion, and celery provide a vibrant texture and depth. Cajun seasoning and smoked paprika are essential for achieving the bold Southern-inspired taste, so measure carefully to match the original flavor profile. You can substitute long-grain white rice with other varieties, but the texture of fluffy rice is key to replicating the dish accurately. This Spicy Jambalaya copycat recipe captures the hearty blend of shrimp, sausage, and chicken simmered in a spicy tomato broth just like the Yard House favorite.
Instructions
- Prepare all ingredients: dice onion, bell peppers, celery; mince garlic; cut chicken; slice sausage; peel and devein shrimp.
- Measure and combine spices: Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, thyme, oregano, cayenne, black pepper, and salt.
- Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
- Add chicken pieces; cook until browned on all sides, remove and set aside.
- Add smoked sausage to pot; brown slices, remove and set aside.
- Add remaining olive oil to the same pot.
- Sauté onions, bell peppers, and celery until softened, about 4–5 minutes.
- Stir in minced garlic; cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Stir in tomato paste and cook for 1–2 minutes.
- Add diced tomatoes (with juices) and chicken broth to pot; stir to combine.
- Sprinkle in prepared spice mix; stir well.
- Return cooked chicken and sausage to the pot; bring mixture to a simmer.
- Simmer uncovered for 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Meanwhile, cook rice: rinse 2 cups long-grain white rice, place in saucepan with 3 cups water, bring to boil, reduce heat to low, cover, and cook 15–18 minutes until fluffy; remove from heat and let steam.
- Add shrimp to simmering pot; cook 2–3 minutes, until pink and opaque.
- Taste and adjust salt or spice level if needed.
- Fluff cooked rice with fork.
- Serve jambalaya over bed of rice.
- Garnish with chopped parsley and scallions.
- Serve immediately with serving spoon or ladle.
Substitution
The Spicy Jambalaya from Yard House copycat menu captures the essence of Southern cuisine by blending shrimp, smoked sausage, and chicken with a medley of vegetables and bold Cajun spices. If you have difficulty finding smoked sausage, Andouille sausage or chorizo make great substitutes that maintain a smoky, spicy profile. When fresh bell peppers are unavailable, frozen diced peppers can be used without compromising flavor or texture. For a lighter version, consider substituting chicken broth with vegetable broth to suit dietary preferences. Your jambalaya will stay authentic and flavorful by carefully balancing seasoning and cooking rice separately for optimal fluffiness.
Tips
Ensure shrimp is added last to prevent overcooking, which can make it tough and rubbery. Browning the chicken and sausage separately before simmering enhances the depth of flavor in your jambalaya. Use medium-high heat to saute vegetables until softened but not browned for the ideal texture and aroma. When cooking rice, rinse it thoroughly to remove excess starch, ensuring a fluffy outcome that complements your spicy jambalaya perfectly.
Nutritions
Spicy Jambalaya provides a balanced mix of protein from shrimp, chicken breast, and smoked sausage, supporting muscle growth and repair. The dish includes vegetables like bell peppers, onions, and celery, which offer dietary fiber, vitamins A and C, and antioxidants to promote immune health. Long-grain white rice adds carbohydrates for sustained energy, while olive oil contributes healthy monounsaturated fats essential for heart health. Your meal delivers a flavorful yet nutritious Southern-inspired option rich in essential nutrients and moderate spices.
Storage
Store your Spicy Jambalaya in airtight containers and refrigerate promptly to maintain freshness, ideally consuming it within 3-4 days. For longer storage, freeze portions in freezer-safe containers, and thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave to keep the shrimp tender and the flavors vibrant.
Variation or Alternatives
For a smoky twist, swap smoked sausage with andouille sausage or chorizo, enhancing the depth of flavor. You can replace white rice with brown rice or cauliflower rice for a healthier option, adjusting cooking time accordingly. If fresh shrimp isn't available, frozen shrimp works equally well--just thaw completely before cooking to maintain texture. You might want to stir in hot sauce or extra cayenne pepper to intensify the heat based on your spice preference.
Allergies
This Spicy Jambalaya contains common allergens such as shellfish from the shrimp and potentially pork from the smoked sausage. The dish also includes garlic and bell peppers, which may trigger sensitivities in some individuals. When ordering or preparing this meal, be mindful of these ingredients to ensure your dietary safety.
Why this recipe?
Spicy Jambalaya from Yard House excites your taste buds with its bold blend of Cajun spices, tender chicken, shrimp, and smoked sausage, perfectly combined with rice and fresh vegetables. Fans appreciate its rich, smoky flavor profile and the satisfying balance of heat and savory ingredients that reflect authentic Louisiana cooking. Making a copycat version lets you customize the spice level and freshness while recreating the irresistible taste in your own kitchen. You'll enjoy the rewarding experience of mastering a classic dish that represents Yard House's commitment to quality and bold flavors.