16 Southern Cajun Chicken Recipe Elevate Your Taste Buds!
Published on: Apr 10, 2024
Southern Cajun chicken is a staple in many southern households, and for good reason. This flavorful and spicy dish is packed with a blend of herbs and spices that will leave your taste buds begging for more. In this article, we'll take a closer look at the perfect southern cajun chicken recipe that will have you feeling like a professional chef in no time. So, grab your apron and get ready to impress your family and friends with this mouth-watering dish.
Main Ingredients: Olive Oil, Chicken Sausage, Medium Yellow Onion, Celery
Bring the flavors of the bayou to your dinner table with this delicious Cajun chicken and rice recipe. Tender chicken coated in a spicy Cajun seasoning and served over a bed of fluffy rice – it's a dish that will have everyone coming back for seconds. The best part? It's all cooked in one pot for easy clean-up. Serve with a side of crispy cornbread for the ultimate Southern comfort meal.
2of 20
Cajun Chicken and Sausage Gumbo
Main Ingredients: Vegetable Oil, All Purpose Flour, Chopped Onion
Gumbo is a staple in Cajun cuisine, and this recipe takes it to the next level with the addition of juicy chicken and savory sausage. A flavorful broth made with dark roux and a blend of Cajun spices creates the perfect base for this hearty stew. Serve over a bed of white rice for a filling and satisfying meal.
3of 20
Cajun Shrimp and Grits
Main Ingredients: Shrimp, Andouille Sausage, Grits, Cajun Seasoning
This classic dish gets a Cajun twist with the addition of spicy shrimp and creamy grits. The shrimp is cooked in a rich butter sauce with garlic, Cajun seasoning, and a splash of hot sauce for a kick of heat. Serve over a bed of cheesy grits for a truly indulgent meal that will transport you straight to the South.
4of 20
Jambalaya
Main Ingredients: Olive Oil, Celery, White Onion, Red Bell Pepper, Bell
No list of Cajun recipes would be complete without jambalaya. This one-pot wonder is packed with flavor from a blend of andouille sausage, chicken, and holy trinity – a mix of onions, bell peppers, and celery. The addition of tomato sauce gives it a rich, tangy flavor that pairs perfectly with the spicy Cajun seasoning. Serve over rice for a complete meal.
5of 20
Cajun Southern Fried Corn
Main Ingredients: Sweet Corn, Butter, Chicken Stock, Cajun Seasoning
If you're tired of the same old side dishes, give this Cajun Southern fried corn a try. Sweet corn is coated in a flavorful blend of Cajun spices and fried until crispy. It's the perfect accompaniment to any Cajun-inspired meal and will have your taste buds dancing with every bite.
6of 20
Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta
Main Ingredients: Chicken, Linguine, Cajun Seasoning, Butter, Green
This creamy Cajun chicken pasta is the ultimate comfort food. Tender chicken and al dente pasta are smothered in a rich and creamy Alfredo sauce infused with Cajun flavors. It's a decadent and satisfying meal that will have you licking your plate clean.
7of 20
Smoky Cheddar Cauliflower Grits and Cajun Shrimp
Main Ingredients: Shrimp, Large Shrimp, Pineapple, Zucchini, Onion, Olive
Looking for a low-carb alternative to traditional grits? Look no further than these smoky cheddar cauliflower grits with Cajun shrimp. The cheesy cauliflower grits are packed with smoky flavor from bacon and smoked paprika, while the Cajun shrimp adds a spicy kick. It's a healthier twist on a classic Southern dish.
8of 20
Gumbo
Main Ingredients: Chicken, Butter, Onions, Chopped Celery, Bell Pepper
This traditional gumbo recipe features a thick, dark roux and a blend of spicy andouille sausage, chicken, and holy trinity. The key to a good gumbo is patience – let it simmer and develop its flavors for a truly authentic taste. Serve over rice for a hearty and satisfying meal.
9of 20
Cajun Red Beans and Rice
Main Ingredients: Red Beans, Water, Vegetable Oil, Ham Hocks, Bacon
Red beans and rice is a staple in Cajun cuisine, and this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household. Tender red beans are simmered with ham hocks, sausage, and holy trinity until creamy and flavorful. Serve over a bed of fluffy white rice for a classic and delicious Cajun meal.
10of 20
Cajun Chicken Alfredo
Main Ingredients: Fettuccine Pasta, Cajun Seasoning, Salt, Cracked Black
If you love the combination of creamy Alfredo sauce and spicy Cajun flavors, then this recipe is for you. Tender chicken is cooked in a garlic and herb butter before being smothered in a rich and creamy Alfredo sauce infused with Cajun spices. Serve over a bed of pasta for a restaurant-worthy dish.
11of 20
Cajun Chicken Pasta
Main Ingredients: Bow Tie Pasta, Unsalted Butter, Minced Garlic, Chicken
This Cajun chicken pasta features tender chicken, bell peppers, and red onion sautéed in a spicy Cajun cream sauce. The heat from the Cajun seasoning is perfectly balanced by the creamy sauce, creating a dish that is sure to become a family favorite.
12of 20
Cajun Cornbread Dressing
Main Ingredients: Buttermilk, Butter, Self Rising Cornmeal, Buttermilk
Cornbread dressing is a staple on many Southern dinner tables, and this Cajun version takes it to the next level. Cornbread, andouille sausage, and holy trinity are combined with Cajun seasoning and baked until golden and crispy. It's the perfect side dish for any Cajun-inspired meal.
13of 20
Cajun Chicken
Main Ingredients: Bone In Chicken Thighs, Unsalted Butter, Cajun
This simple yet flavorful Cajun chicken recipe is a must-try for any fan of spicy food. Chicken breasts are coated in a blend of Cajun spices and pan-seared until crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside. Serve with a side of creamy mashed potatoes for a complete meal.
14of 20
Cajun Fried Chicken and Waffles
Main Ingredients: Chicken Wings, Buttermilk, Hot Sauce, Worcestershire
A Southern classic gets a Cajun twist with this recipe for Cajun fried chicken and waffles. The chicken is coated in a spicy buttermilk marinade before being fried until crispy and golden. Serve with fluffy waffles and a drizzle of syrup for a unique and delicious meal.
15of 20
Cajun Fried Catfish
Main Ingredients: Catfish Fillets, Buttermilk, Vegetable Oil, Cornmeal
Catfish is a staple in Cajun cuisine, and this recipe for Cajun fried catfish is a must-try. The catfish is coated in a spicy cornmeal breading and fried until crispy and flavorful. Serve with a side of coleslaw and remoulade sauce for a true taste of the South.
16of 20
Cajun Shrimp With Cheddar Cheese Grits
Main Ingredients: Shrimp, Deveined Shrimp, Melted Butter, Worcestershire
This flavorful and indulgent dish features spicy Cajun shrimp served over a bed of creamy cheddar cheese grits. The shrimp is cooked in a garlic and herb butter for an added burst of flavor. It's a meal that is sure to impress any dinner guests.
17of 20
Cajun Shrimp and Rice
Main Ingredients: Shrimp, Cajun Seasoning, Bacon, Onion, Green Bell
This quick and easy recipe for Cajun shrimp and rice is perfect for busy weeknights. The shrimp is cooked in a spicy Cajun tomato sauce and served over a bed of fluffy white rice. It's a satisfying and delicious meal that can be on the table in under 30 minutes.
18of 20
Classic Jambalaya
Main Ingredients: Butter, Chicken Breast, Andouille Sausage, Yellow
This classic jambalaya recipe is a must-try for any fan of Cajun cuisine. Tender chicken, andouille sausage, and holy trinity are cooked in a spicy tomato broth and served over a bed of fluffy white rice. It's a hearty and flavorful meal that will transport you straight to New Orleans.
19of 20
Creamy Cajun Chicken and Sausage Pasta
Main Ingredients: Butter, Chicken Breasts, Smoked Sausage, Baby Bella
This creamy Cajun chicken and sausage pasta is a delicious and comforting meal that the whole family will love. Tender chicken and spicy sausage are cooked in a creamy Cajun sauce and served over a bed of pasta. It's a dish that is sure to become a family favorite.
20of 20
Cajun Crawfish Boil
Main Ingredients: Kosher Salt, Black Pepper, Ground Coriander, Ground
No Cajun meal is complete without a crawfish boil, and this recipe is the perfect way to bring a taste of Louisiana to your home. Fresh crawfish is boiled with potatoes, corn, and andouille sausage, and seasoned with a blend of Cajun spices. Serve with a side of hot sauce for a truly authentic experience.
The Perfect Blend of Flavors
When it comes to southern cajun chicken, the key is in the seasonings. The perfect blend of cajun spices is what makes this dish stand out from the rest. The combination of paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, and thyme creates a bold and flavorful taste that will have you coming back for seconds. This spice mix is not only delicious, but it also adds a beautiful red color to the chicken that is sure to impress your guests.
Marinating is Key
One of the secrets to making the perfect southern cajun chicken is marinating the chicken beforehand. This allows the spices to fully infuse into the meat, resulting in a juicy and tender chicken. You can marinate the chicken for as little as 30 minutes, but for best results, marinate it overnight. This will give the flavors enough time to develop and create a truly delicious dish.
The Cooking Process
Once you have marinated your chicken, it's time to cook it to perfection. Start by heating a cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat and add a tablespoon of oil. Place the chicken in the skillet and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. This method of cooking will give the chicken a nice crust on the outside while keeping it moist and tender on the inside.
Pairing Suggestions
Southern cajun chicken can be served in many different ways, making it a versatile dish for any occasion. You can serve it with traditional sides such as cornbread, collard greens, and mac and cheese for a classic southern meal. For a lighter option, you can pair it with a fresh salad or grilled vegetables. No matter how you choose to serve it, this dish is sure to be a hit.
In Conclusion
In summary, southern cajun chicken is a flavorful and spicy dish that is perfect for any occasion. With the right blend of spices and marinating techniques, you can create a mouth-watering chicken that will impress your family and friends. So, next time you're in the mood for some southern comfort food, give this recipe a try and taste the deliciousness for yourself.
