Cheesecake Factory Crispy Pineapple Chicken and Shrimp Recipe
Are you a fan of the Cheesecake Factory and their mouthwatering menu? If so, you're not alone. Among their beloved dishes, the Crispy Pineapple Chicken and Shrimp has earned a special place in the hearts (and stomachs) of food enthusiasts everywhere.
Equipment
- Large Skillet or Wok
- Mixing bowls
- Knife and cutting board
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Tongs or spatula
Ingredients
For the Chicken and Shrimp
- 8 oz boneless chicken breast cut into bite-sized pieces
- 8 oz large shrimp peeled and deveined
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup cornstarch
- 2 large eggs beaten
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Vegetable oil for frying
For the Pineapple Sauce
- 1 cup pineapple juice
- 1/2 cup soy sauce
- 1/3 cup brown sugar
- 1/3 cup rice vinegar
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 tbsp cornstarch diluted in 2 tbsp water
For Garnishing (Optional)
- Fresh pineapple chunks
- Green onions thinly sliced
- Sesame seeds
Instructions
Step 1: Get Your Ingredients Ready
- First things first—gather all your ingredients. Clean and devein the shrimp so they’re ready to cook. Chop the chicken into bite-sized pieces that match the shrimp for even cooking. Dice up the pineapple into little chunks and set it aside. Make sure everything is measured and prepped before you start cooking—it’ll save you so much time later!
Step 2: Whip Up the Batter
- Make the crispy coating! Mix flour, cornstarch, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Add cold water and whisk until smooth and a little thick. Don’t overmix—it’s the key to a perfect crunch. This batter will give your chicken or shrimp a golden, crispy layer.
Step 3: Heat the Oil
- Grab a deep frying pan or wok and pour in enough oil for proper frying. Heat it over medium-high until it hits around 350°F (175°C). Keeping the oil at the right temperature is key to getting that gorgeous, crispy finish. If you have a thermometer, use it—nobody wants burnt batter!
Step 4: Batter and Fry
- Dip the chicken and shrimp into the batter until fully coated. Use tongs or chopsticks to place them in hot oil. Fry in batches for 4–5 minutes until golden brown. Once done, set them on paper towels to absorb extra oil. To keep them warm, place them in a low-heat oven while you fry the rest.
Step 5: Make the Sweet and Tangy Sauce
- Time for that delicious sauce! In a medium saucepan, mix pineapple juice, soy sauce, rice vinegar, sugar, and a bit of cornstarch to thicken it. Bring it to a gentle boil, whisking constantly to avoid any lumps. Once it thickens into a nice, glossy sauce, give it a quick taste and tweak the seasoning if needed. Then take it off the heat—it’s ready to go!
Step 6: Toss and Garnish
- Now it’s time to bring everything together. Put your crispy chicken and shrimp into a big mixing bowl, pour the sauce over the top, and gently toss until everything is coated. Toss in the diced pineapple for a pop of sweetness and flavor. For the final touch, sprinkle on some chopped green onions or sesame seeds for a fresh and pretty garnish.
Step 7: Serve and Dig In
- Serve your Crispy Pineapple Chicken and Shrimp right away while it’s still hot and crunchy. Pair it with steamed rice or stir-fried veggies to complete the meal. Now sit back and enjoy every bite of this sweet, tangy, and savory dish—it’s like a Cheesecake Factory favorite right in your own kitchen!
Notes
While making this recipe, ensure your oil is heated to the right temperature for achieving the perfect crispiness. Additionally, balancing the sweet and tangy flavors of the sauce is key to recreating the signature taste. Don’t forget to prepare all ingredients ahead of time to make the cooking process smooth and efficient!