Crispy, flavorful, and just the right amount of spicy—Cajun fried chicken is one of those recipes that never fails to impress. It’s got that perfect crunchy coating, juicy meat, and a bold blend of seasonings that give it a little heat without being overwhelming. This isn’t just any fried chicken—it’s the kind that makes you want to lick your fingers when you’re done.

I’ve been making fried chicken for years, but adding Cajun seasoning took it to a whole new level. The first time I made it, I was looking for a way to bring more flavor to my usual fried chicken recipe. I had some homemade Cajun seasoning in the pantry, so I tossed it into the flour mixture, added a little to the marinade, and hoped for the best. The result? Some of the best-fried chicken I’d ever made. Now, it’s one of my go-to recipes whenever I want something with a little kick.

Servings	Total
6	35mins

Where Did You Learn This Recipe?

I first learned about Cajun seasoning when I visited Louisiana years ago. The food there had so much depth—spicy, smoky, a little bit of heat, and just the right balance of flavors. When I got home, I started experimenting with Cajun spices, adding them to everything from shrimp to potatoes.

When I finally decided to try it with fried chicken, I knew I was onto something. I started with a basic fried chicken recipe and slowly adjusted the seasoning blend until I got it just right. After a few test batches (and some happy taste-testers in my family), this recipe was born.

Why Cajun Fried Chicken?

Cajun fried chicken is for those who love bold flavors. It’s not just about the heat—it’s about that deep, smoky, and slightly garlicky taste that makes every bite exciting. Here’s why this recipe is worth making:

Crispy and Crunchy: The double-dredging method ensures a perfectly crisp coating.
Juicy and Flavorful: The buttermilk marinade keeps the chicken moist while infusing it with flavor.
Spicy but Balanced: The Cajun seasoning kicks it without being too overwhelming.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether you’re making it for a family dinner, a backyard get-together, or just because, this chicken always delivers.

What Is Cajun Fried Chicken Made Of?

Cajun fried chicken is made with a simple mix of classic fried chicken ingredients and bold Cajun spices. Here’s what goes into it:

Chicken: Bone-in, skin-on pieces are best for flavor and juiciness.
Buttermilk Marinade: Helps tenderize the chicken and adds moisture.
Flour and Cornstarch Coating: Creates the crispy, golden crust.
Cajun Seasoning: A mix of paprika, cayenne, garlic powder, onion powder, and other spices.
Frying Oil: Vegetable or peanut oil for that perfect crispiness.

What to Have with Cajun Fried Chicken

Cajun fried chicken pairs well with classic Southern and Cajun-inspired sides. Here are some of my favorites:

Cornbread: Sweet, buttery cornbread balances out the spice.
Coleslaw: A cool, tangy slaw helps cut through the richness of the fried chicken.
Red Beans and Rice: A classic Cajun side dish that adds even more flavor.
Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes make a comforting addition.
Biscuits: Soft, flaky biscuits are perfect for soaking up extra seasoning.

Is Cajun Fried Chicken Healthy?

Fried chicken isn’t the healthiest dish, but you can make it a little lighter by using an air fryer or oven-baking instead of deep frying. Using skinless chicken can also reduce fat content. But let’s be honest—this is a dish meant to be enjoyed as a treat!

Kitchen Equipment

Here’s what you’ll need to make this recipe:

A deep frying pan or Dutch oven
A thermometer for monitoring oil temperature
Mixing bowls
A wire rack for draining the chicken
Tongs for handling the chicken

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

2 lbs bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs and drumsticks
2 cups buttermilk
1 tbsp hot sauce

For the Breading:

2 cups all-purpose flour
½ cup cornstarch
2 tbsp Cajun seasoning (store-bought or homemade)
1 tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper

For Frying:

Vegetable or peanut oil (enough for frying)

For the Cajun Seasoning (if making from scratch):

1 tbsp paprika
1 tsp cayenne pepper
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp dried thyme
½ tsp black pepper
½ tsp salt

Directions:

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

In a large bowl, mix the buttermilk and hot sauce.
Add the chicken pieces, making sure they’re fully coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours (or overnight for the best flavor).

Step 2: Prepare the Breading

In another bowl, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, Cajun seasoning, salt, and black pepper.

Step 3: Bread the Chicken

Remove the chicken from the buttermilk, letting the excess drip off.
Dredge each piece in the flour mixture, pressing gently to make sure the coating sticks.
Let the coated chicken rest for 10 minutes—this helps the breading adhere better.

Step 4: Heat the Oil

In a deep frying pan or Dutch oven, heat about 2 inches of oil to 350°F (175°C).

Step 5: Fry the Chicken

Carefully place the chicken in the hot oil, frying it in batches to avoid overcrowding.
Fry for about 6-8 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Transfer the fried chicken to a wire rack to drain excess oil.

Step 6: Serve

Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving.
Serve hot with your favorite sides and enjoy!

Tips

Use Cornstarch for Extra Crispiness: Adding cornstarch to the flour mixture gives the coating a lighter, crunchier texture.
Let the Chicken Rest: Allowing the breaded chicken to sit for 10 minutes before frying helps the coating stick better.
Keep the Oil at the Right Temperature: Too hot, and the coating burns before the chicken cooks through. Too cool, and the chicken absorbs too much oil.
Make it Spicier: Add extra cayenne pepper or hot sauce for more heat.

FAQs

Can I use boneless chicken?
Yes! Boneless thighs or breasts work well. Just reduce the frying time slightly.

Can I make this in an air fryer?
Yes! Air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.

How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for best results.

Can I freeze Cajun fried chicken?
Yes! Freeze the fried chicken in an airtight container and reheat it in an oven or air fryer.

Conclusion

Cajun fried chicken is crispy, spicy, and packed with bold flavors. It’s one of those recipes that feels special but is easy enough to make at home. Whether you’re serving it for a weeknight dinner or a gathering with friends, this dish is sure to be a favorite. Try it out and enjoy every crispy, flavorful bite!

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