Cajun Cornmeal Crusted Chicken

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Are you tired of the same old chicken recipes? Do you want to add a little spice and flavor to your dinner?

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Cajun Cornmeal Crusted Chicken
Prep
35 min
Cook
25 min
Total
35 min
Servings
4

Method

  1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F.

  2. In a medium bowl, combine 1/2 cup of flour, cornmeal, Cajun spice, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Whisk together.

  3. Take the remaining 1 cup of flour, buttermilk, and cornmeal mixture, and place each in separate shallow dishes.

  4. Season the buttermilk with hot sauce, to taste.

  5. Using the flat side of a cook's knife or the smooth side of a meat-pounder, pound each chicken breast to an equal thickness.

  6. Pat the chicken breasts dry and season with salt.

  7. Lightly coat each breast in flour, shaking off any excess.

  8. Dip each breast into the buttermilk to coat, then remove and let excess buttermilk drain back into the bowl.

  9. Dredge the chicken in the cornmeal mixture, shaking off any excess coating.

  10. Place the coated chicken on a piece of waxed paper.

  11. Heat a large (12-inch) cast iron skillet over medium heat with about 1/2 inch of oil.

  12. Lay 2 chicken breasts smooth-side down in the pan and cook until golden brown, approximately 3 to 4 minutes.

  13. Flip the chicken breasts and cook for an additional 3 to 4 minutes.

  14. Drain the cooked chicken on a paper towel.

  15. Repeat steps 12-14 with the remaining chicken

About this recipe

Are you tired of the same old chicken recipes? Do you want to add a little spice and flavor to your dinner? Look no further than Cajun Cornmeal Crusted Chicken! This mouthwatering dish combines the crunch of cornmeal with the bold and zesty flavors of Cajun seasoning. It's a perfect meal for any occasion and will leave your taste buds begging for more.

The Secret to a Perfectly Crusted Chicken

When it comes to creating a crispy and flavorful crust on your chicken, cornmeal is the secret ingredient you need. The coarse texture of cornmeal adds a delightful crunch to the chicken, while the Cajun seasoning brings a burst of flavor. It's a match made in culinary heaven!

The Cajun Spice Blend

Before we dive into the recipe, let's talk about the Cajun spice blend. It's a combination of several herbs and spices that create that signature Cajun flavor. Think paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, and more. This blend adds a smoky and spicy kick to the chicken, making it irresistible!

How to Make Cajun Cornmeal Crusted Chicken

Now that we've covered the basics, let's get into the nitty-gritty of making Cajun Cornmeal Crusted Chicken. Start by marinating your chicken in a mixture of buttermilk and Cajun seasoning. This step not only infuses the chicken with flavor but also tenderizes it, ensuring a juicy and succulent result.

Next, prepare your cornmeal crust by combining cornmeal, flour, Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. Dredge each piece of marinated chicken in the cornmeal mixture, pressing it gently to ensure it adheres well.

Once your chicken is coated, it's time to fry it to perfection. Heat a skillet with oil over medium-high heat and carefully place the chicken in the hot oil. Cook each side until golden brown and crispy, which usually takes about 3-4 minutes per side.

Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest on a paper towel to absorb any excess oil. This step is essential for maintaining the crispiness of the crust.

Frequently asked questions

Can I use a different type of seasoning?

Absolutely! While Cajun seasoning is the star of this recipe, feel free to experiment with different spice blends to suit your taste preferences.

Can I bake the chicken instead of frying it?

Yes, you can. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and place the coated chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for approximately 25-30 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the crust is golden and crispy.

What can I serve with Cajun Cornmeal Crusted Chicken?

This versatile dish pairs well with a variety of sides. Some popular options include mashed potatoes, coleslaw, cornbread, or a fresh salad.

Can I use boneless chicken breasts instead of chicken thighs?

Absolutely! You can use boneless chicken breasts or any other cut of chicken you prefer. Just ensure that the cooking time is adjusted accordingly to avoid overcooking or undercooking the chicken.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

While the chicken is best enjoyed fresh and hot, you can prepare the cornmeal crust and marinate the chicken in advance. Store the coated chicken in the refrigerator until ready to fry or bake.

Is this recipe spicy?

The level of spiciness can be adjusted to your liking. If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce the amount of Cajun seasoning or omit the cayenne pepper altogether.

Can I use a gluten-free flour for the cornmeal crust?

Absolutely! You can substitute the flour in the cornmeal crust with a gluten-free alternative, such as rice flour or almond flour. Just ensure that the consistency of the crust is similar to the original recipe.

Can I make this recipe kid-friendly?

If you're preparing this dish for children or those who prefer less spice, you can adjust the level of spiciness by reducing the amount of Cajun seasoning or using a mild spice blend.

Can I freeze the leftover chicken?

Yes, you can freeze the leftover Cajun Cornmeal Crusted Chicken. Allow the cooked chicken to cool completely, then store it in an airtight container or freezer bag. When ready to enjoy, simply reheat it in the oven or microwave until heated through.

In conclusion, Cajun Cornmeal Crusted Chicken is a delicious and flavorful dish that will take your chicken game to the next level. The combination of cornmeal, Cajun seasoning, and a crispy crust makes it a crowd-pleaser for any occasion. So, why not spice up your dinner tonight with this mouthwatering recipe?

AprilCook, recipe developer and the heart of Chefwiz. More about April

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