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+ servings
Linda Cain

Cheesecake Factory Jambalaya Recipe

Before diving into the heart of the matter—Cheesecake Factory Jambalaya—let's chat about what to enjoy alongside this spicy, savory dish. Jambalaya is a New Orleans classic that has become a favorite at the Cheesecake Factory, but pairing it can elevate your meal to a whole new level.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 2
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

  • ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 pound boneless skinless chicken tenders, cut into bite-sized cubes
  • 2 ½ tablespoons Cajun spice seasoning divided
  • ½ teaspoon kosher salt
  • ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon freshly minced garlic
  • ½ cup red onion thinly sliced
  • 1 ½ cups bell peppers red, yellow, and orange, julienned, divided
  • 3 Roma tomatoes diced
  • ¾ cup low-sodium chicken stock
  • ½ pound large raw shrimp thawed, peeled, deveined, and tails removed
  • ½ teaspoon smoked paprika adds depth and a hint of smokiness
  • ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper for an extra kick of heat
Garnish:
  • Freshly chopped parsley
  • Cajun seasoning to taste

Equipment

  • Skillet

Method
 

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
  1. Begin by cubing your chicken tenders. It’s crucial to cut them into bite-sized pieces to ensure even cooking. Then, thinly slice the red onion and julienne your colorful bell peppers. Dice the Roma tomatoes, and set everything aside. Having all ingredients ready makes the cooking process smooth.
Step 2: Season the Chicken
  1. In a bowl, combine chicken cubes with 1 tablespoon of Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. Toss them until evenly coated. Let it sit for a few minutes to allow the spices to infuse the meat with flavor.
Step 3: Sauté the Chicken
  1. In a large skillet or dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once it shimmers, add the seasoned chicken. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. Stir occasionally to avoid sticking.
Step 4: Add Aromatics
  1. Next, stir in the minced garlic and sliced red onion into the pan. Let them cook for about 2-3 minutes until the onion becomes translucent. The aroma in your kitchen is about to become irresistible.
Step 5: Incorporate Bell Peppers and Tomatoes
  1. Now, add the julienned bell peppers and diced tomatoes to the skillet. Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes. This lets the peppers soften slightly while still maintaining their crunch.
Step 6: Add Shrimp and Stock
  1. Add the shrimp to the pan along with the chicken stock, smoked paprika, and remaining 1 ½ tablespoons of Cajun seasoning. Stir everything well and bring the mixture to a simmer. Let it cook for about 5 minutes or until the shrimp turns pink.
Step 7: Final Touches
  1. Once the shrimp is cooked, remove the skillet from heat. If you are feeling adventurous, add a bit more Cajun seasoning to taste. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving. The sight of this colorful dish will make your mouth water.

Nutrition

Calories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 35gFat: 15gSodium: 600mg

Notes

  • Adjust Spiciness: If you prefer a milder version, reduce the cayenne pepper. You can always add more heat later.
  • Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs elevate the dish's flavor. If available, fresh parsley is a must.
  • Don’t Overcook the Shrimp: Shrimp cooks quickly. Remove it from heat as soon as it turns pink to avoid a rubbery texture.
  • Make it Ahead: This dish tastes even better the next day. Cook it in advance and let the flavors meld overnight.
  • Garnish Generously: Adding a sprinkle of Cajun seasoning and extra parsley right before serving enhances the dish aesthetically and flavor-wise.

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