Applebee’s Bourbon Street Chicken and Shrimp Recipe

If you’re a fan of Applebee’s Bourbon Street Chicken & Shrimp, we’re in the same club!

This dish combines Cajun-seasoned chicken and blackened shrimp, which is SO good.

The key to getting that special flavor is letting the Cajun seasoning mingle with the meat for at least 30 minutes before cooking.

Pair this with a side of sautéed onions, bell peppers, and your favorite garlic mashed potatoes to recreate the restaurant experience.

My favorite part about this recipe is the rich, buttery garlic sauce that brings an irresistible aroma!

How to Make Applebee’s Bourbon Street Chicken and Shrimp Recipe

Ingredients

• 4 Boneless Chicken Breasts
• 1 lb. Large Shrimp (peeled and deveined)
• 3 tbsp Cajun Seasoning
• 2 tbsp Olive Oil
• 2 tbsp Butter
• 1 tsp Garlic (minced)
• 1 Onion (sliced)
• 1 cup Mushrooms (sliced)
• Salt and Pepper to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1:

Preheat your oven to 350°F.

While the oven heats, slice the onions and mushrooms.

This gives them time to soften as they cook.

Step 2:

In a bowl, combine the chicken with half of the Cajun seasoning and olive oil.

Ensure the chicken is coated well.

Let it sit for about 15 minutes.

Step 3:

Place the marinated chicken on a lined baking sheet.

Bake for approximately 25-30 minutes.

This allows the chicken to cook through while staying juicy.

Step 4:

In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat.

Add garlic, onions, and mushrooms, and sauté until fragrant.

Don’t rush this to fully develop their flavors.

Step 5:

Add shrimp to the skillet, sprinkle with remaining Cajun seasoning, and sauté until the shrimp is pink.

Avoid overcooking for the best texture.

Serve the chicken and shrimp together while hot!

Tips and Tricks for Making This Recipe

Blend Your Own Cajun Seasoning

Creating your own Cajun spice blend is a great way to customize the flavor.

You know exactly what’s in it, and you can adjust it to your taste.

Perfectly Sautéed Shrimp

Cook the shrimp just until they turn pink and opaque; this keeps them tender and juicy.

Overcooked shrimp can become tough, and you want them to be just right!

Adjusting Spice Levels

You can easily adjust the spice levels by increasing or decreasing the Cajun seasoning.

It’s all about getting the right balance for your palate.

Preparing Ingredients in Advance

Cutting the vegetables and marinating the chicken the night before can save you time.

This means less stress when you’re actually cooking the dish.

What to Serve with Applebee’s Bourbon Chicken

Roasted Vegetables

A simple mix of roasted vegetables can be a flavorful companion to your bourbon chicken.

Consider adding carrots, bell peppers, and broccoli for a colorful side dish that balances the meal.

Drizzle olive oil and sprinkle some salt before roasting them in the oven.

Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Garlic mashed potatoes provide a creamy, rich texture that pairs excellently with the savory sauce of bourbon chicken.

Add roasted garlic for a deeper flavor profile.

Mash the potatoes to your desired consistency for an enjoyable side dish.

Creamy Coleslaw

A refreshing coleslaw not only adds a pop of color but also a crunch that complements the chicken.

You can mix shredded cabbage, carrots, and a tangy dressing.

Coleslaw is a classic side dish that enhances the flavors of bourbon chicken.

Pineapple Fried Rice

Pineapple fried rice is an exciting twist on a traditional rice side dish.

Incorporate pineapple chunks with your regular fried rice ingredients for a sweet and savory combination.

This unique side dish pairs beautifully with bourbon chicken’s sauce.

Sautéed Green Beans

Sautéed green beans offer a crisp texture and light flavor that balances out the richness of the chicken.

Toss them with a little bit of garlic and butter for an easy, but effective side dish.

Green beans bring a fresh element to your meal.

Variations and Substitutions

If you like things a bit spicier in the kitchen, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or some red pepper flakes!

It’ll give your bourbon chicken a fantastic kick that I think you’ll love.

Another option is to swap out the brown sugar with honey.

This gives it a sweeter, richer flavor that’s kind of nice.

Feel free to throw in some chopped pineapple if you are after a tropical twist.

The pineapple balances nicely with the bourbon sauce adding another layer of flavor.

Cooking Oils

When it comes to cooking oils, you have flexibility.

If you are out of olive oil, try using canola or vegetable oil instead.

This alteration doesn’t significantly impact the taste.

Vegan Alternatives

You might want to explore tofu or tempeh to create a plant-based version.

Marinate them well to ensure they soak up all that fantastic flavor.

It’s excellent with the same seasoning and sauce but offers a great alternative for those avoiding meat.

How to Store Leftover Applebee’s Bourbon Chicken

To properly store leftover Applebee’s Bourbon Chicken, make sure it cools down to room temperature first.

You’ll want to avoid leaving it out at room temperature for over two hours, as this may compromise its safety.

Once cooled, place the chicken in an airtight container or wrap it tightly with plastic wrap.

Refrigeration Tips

Storing it in the refrigerator is the best option if you plan to eat it within three to four days.

Make sure your fridge is set to a temperature below 40°F to keep the chicken fresh and safe to eat.

Freezing Options

If you don’t plan on eating the leftovers soon, freeze them to extend their shelf life.

Wrap the chicken in aluminum foil and place it in a freezer-safe container or bag.

Frozen Bourbon Chicken can be safely stored for up to three months for optimal taste and quality.

Labeling Your Leftovers

Always label your containers with the date before storing them in the fridge or freezer.

This simple step helps you keep track of freshness and ensures you enjoy your leftovers at their best!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overcrowding the Pan

When you’re cooking, resist the temptation to cram everything into your pan all at once!

If you overcrowd, you risk steaming instead of searing, and that’s not what you’re aiming for.

Work in batches if needed to keep everything sizzling nicely.

Skipping Temperature Checks

It can be easy to overlook, but not checking the temperature can lead to undercooked or dry chicken.

Use a meat thermometer to make sure your chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for safety.

This small tool can make a big difference in the outcome of your dish.

Forgetting to Season

Don’t forget to properly season your chicken and shrimp before cooking!

This step is crucial for getting that punch of flavor that makes this dish stand out.

Marinating or seasoning beforehand can really highlight the best taste in your meal.