Crispy Cajun Chicken Strips

In the world of comfort food, few dishes evoke as much excitement as crispy fried chicken. Among the myriad of variations, Crispy Cajun Chicken Strips stand out with their bold flavors and satisfying crunch. Originating from the heart of Louisiana, this dish captures the essence of Cajun cuisine, which is known for its rich and spicy flavors. The combination of perfectly marinated chicken, a savory spice blend, and a crispy coating makes these chicken strips an irresistible treat that can be enjoyed as an appetizer, snack, or main dish. Whether served at a casual gathering or a family dinner, these Crispy Cajun Chicken Strips are sure to impress your family and friends.

Get ready to impress your family and friends with Crispy Cajun Chicken Strips! This flavorful dish showcases the bold and spicy essence of Louisiana's Cajun cuisine, featuring marinated chicken strips coated in a savory spice mix and a delightful crunch. Perfect for any occasion, these chicken strips are not only easy to make but also offer a satisfyingly crispy texture. Discover the step-by-step process of marination, seasoning, and breading to achieve crispy perfection that is sure to be a crowd favorite!

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Ingredients

For the Chicken:

1 lb chicken breast, cut into strips

1 cup buttermilk

1 tablespoon hot sauce (optional)

For the Cajun Spice Mix:

1 teaspoon paprika

1 teaspoon onion powder

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon cayenne pepper

1 teaspoon dried thyme

1 teaspoon oregano

½ teaspoon black pepper

½ teaspoon salt

For the Breading:

1 cup all-purpose flour

½ cup cornmeal

1 teaspoon baking powder

1 teaspoon of the Cajun spice mix

For Frying:

Vegetable oil (enough for frying)

Instructions

Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, combine the buttermilk and hot sauce. Add the chicken strips and ensure they are fully submerged. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or overnight for extra flavor.

Prepare the Cajun Spice Mix: In a separate bowl, mix together all the ingredients for the Cajun spice mix (paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, cayenne, thyme, oregano, black pepper, and salt).

Prepare the Breading: In another bowl, whisk together the flour, cornmeal, baking powder, and a teaspoon of the Cajun spice mix.

Bread the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the marinade and let excess buttermilk drip off. Dredge each chicken strip in the flour mixture, pressing gently to ensure an even coating. Shake off any excess.

Fry the Chicken: In a deep skillet or pot, heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (180°C). Carefully add a few chicken strips to the hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes per side. Use a thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

Draining and Serving: Once cooked, place the chicken strips on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce—ranch or a spicy remoulade go perfectly!

Prep Time, Total Time, Servings:

15 minutes | 1 hour 15 minutes | Serves 4