Applebee's-Style Bourbon Street Chicken and Shrimp

A sizzling plate of Cajun-seasoned chicken and shrimp in a sweet-savory bourbon glaze — the Applebee's bar-food classic rebuilt with coconut aminos, avocado oil, and organic honey instead of MSG-laden sauces and seed oils.

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Ingredients

  • 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless pasture-raised chicken thighs
  • 1 lb large wild-caught shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 2 tbsp avocado oil, divided
  • 2 tsp Cajun seasoning (paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne, thyme — no additives)
  • 1 tsp fine sea salt
  • 1/2 tsp freshly cracked black pepper
  • 1 medium red onion, sliced
  • 8 oz cremini mushrooms, sliced
  • 3 tbsp coconut aminos
  • 2 tbsp organic raw honey
  • 2 tbsp bourbon whiskey
  • 1 tbsp fresh-squeezed lemon juice
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tbsp chopped flat-leaf parsley, for garnish

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What you'll need

Instructions

  1. Pat the chicken thighs dry and season all over with Cajun seasoning, sea salt, and black pepper.
  2. Heat 1 tablespoon avocado oil in a large cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken thighs for 5–6 minutes per side until cooked through (165°F internal) and golden. Remove and let rest.
  3. Make the bourbon glaze: combine coconut aminos, honey, bourbon, lemon juice, smoked paprika, and minced garlic in a small bowl. Whisk until smooth.
  4. Add the remaining avocado oil to the same skillet over medium-high heat. Add the sliced onion and mushrooms and sauté in the pan drippings until softened and browned, 4–5 minutes. Remove and set aside.
  5. Add the shrimp to the skillet in a single layer and cook 1–2 minutes per side until pink and curled. Do not overcook.
  6. Pour the bourbon glaze into the skillet with the shrimp and cook 1–2 minutes, stirring, until the sauce reduces and coats the shrimp.
  7. Slice the chicken and return it to the pan along with the onions and mushrooms, tossing everything in the glaze.
  8. Serve over steamed organic white or brown rice, garnished with chopped parsley.

FAQ

Can I skip the bourbon?

Yes — substitute 2 tablespoons of apple juice or apple cider vinegar for a similar depth without the alcohol. The flavor profile stays sweet-savory-tangy.

What sides go with this at home?

Applebee's serves it with a side of pasta and steamed broccoli. Clean versions: organic angel hair pasta with olive oil and garlic, or steamed broccoli and organic brown rice.

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