Crispy Cajun Chicken Strips

Indulge in the heartwarming flavors of Louisiana with our Crispy Cajun Chicken Strips recipe! This easy-to-make dish features tender chicken marinated in buttermilk and coated in a crunchy blend of flour and cornmeal, all seasoned with zesty Cajun spices. Perfect for weeknight dinners, parties, or game day, these chicken strips bring a satisfying crunch and a kick of flavor to your plate. Learn the key techniques for marinating, frying, and serving for an unforgettable meal!

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Ingredients

1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts

1 cup buttermilk

1 cup all-purpose flour

1 cup cornmeal

1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning (plus extra for seasoning)

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

1 teaspoon paprika

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)

Salt to taste

Vegetable oil (for frying)

Instructions

Marinate the Chicken: Cut the chicken breasts into strips, about 1 inch wide. In a bowl, pour the buttermilk over the chicken and make sure they are fully submerged. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (or overnight for best results).

Prepare the Breading Station: In a shallow bowl, combine the flour, cornmeal, Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, black pepper, cayenne pepper (if using), and salt. Mix well to ensure even seasoning.

Dredging the Chicken: Remove the chicken strips from the buttermilk, allowing any excess to drip off. Dredge each strip thoroughly in the flour and cornmeal mixture, pressing gently to ensure a good coating. Set the breaded strips on a wire rack and let them rest for 10 minutes; this helps the breading adhere better.

Heat the Oil: In a large skillet or deep frying pan, heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). You can test the oil by dropping a small piece of breading into it; if it bubbles and sizzles, the oil is ready.

Fry the Chicken Strips: Carefully add the breaded chicken strips to the hot oil in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry until golden brown and crispy, about 4-5 minutes on each side. Use a slotted spoon to turn them as needed for even cooking.

Drain and Season: Once cooked, transfer the chicken strips to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. Sprinkle with additional Cajun seasoning while still hot for extra flavor.

Serve: Serve the crispy Cajun chicken strips with your favorite dipping sauces, such as ranch, honey mustard, or a spicy aioli. Enjoy the crunch and delicious flavor!

Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 mins | 30 mins | 4 servings