Crispy Cajun Chicken Strips with Fries

Cooking up a delicious platter of Crispy Cajun Chicken Strips with Fries is a fantastic way to treat your taste buds while keeping things simple in the kitchen. This recipe balances crispiness with a bold punch of flavor, making it a go-to choice for busy weeknights and family gatherings alike. Whether you’re hosting a casual get-together or just looking to satisfy a craving, these chicken strips paired with fries are bound to be a hit. Plus, they evoke the spirit of New Orleans cuisine from the comfort of your own home!

What Makes This Recipe Special

There’s plenty to love about Crispy Cajun Chicken Strips with Fries. This dish isn’t just a meal; it’s an experience. If you’re short on time but still desire a home-cooked meal, this recipe checks all the boxes. It’s quick to whip up, budget-friendly, and kid-approved, making it ideal for any setting from family dinners to game day parties.

“These chicken strips are a hit every single time! My kids can’t get enough, and they definitely have that perfect crunch.” – Recipe Enthusiast

You’ll enjoy the contrast of the crispy chicken against fluffy fries, and every bite is bursting with flavor thanks to the Cajun spice blend. Hosting friends? These golden, crunchy strips are perfect for sharing and dunking in your favorite sauces!

Step-by-Step Guide to Cooking It

This recipe unfolds in a few straightforward steps that are perfect for both budding chefs and seasoned cooks. With a few key ingredients and a bit of frying magic, you’ll have a tabletop feast ready in no time. Here’s how it breaks down:

1. Prep Your Chicken Strips: Cut the chicken breasts into strips and get your breading stations ready.
2. Get Those Fries Ready: Either pop some frozen fries in the oven or make your own from scratch.
3. Fry the Chicken Strips: Heat some vegetable oil and fry the chicken until it’s crispy and golden brown.
4. Serve & Enjoy: Plate them beautifully and perhaps drizzle some extra Cajun seasoning on top or set out a variety of dipping sauces.

Everything You Need for This Recipe

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into strips)
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup cornstarch
• 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• 1/2 cup buttermilk
• Vegetable oil (for frying)
• 1 pound frozen French fries (or homemade fries)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (if using homemade fries)
• Salt to taste

Note: If you wish for a gluten-free option, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Prepare the Chicken Strips: Cut your chicken breasts into strips. Set up your breading stations: place the flour mixture on one side and the egg mixture on the other. Dip each chicken strip into the egg, allowing excess to drip off, then dredge in the flour mixture, ensuring a good coat.

2. Cook the Fries: Follow the package instructions for frozen fries or, if you’re feeling adventurous, slice potatoes, toss them with olive oil and salt, and bake until crispy and golden.

3. Fry the Chicken Strips: Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat. Carefully add chicken strips in batches, frying until they are golden brown and cooked through, which usually takes about 6-8 minutes. Make sure to keep an eye on the temperature of the oil to ensure they cook evenly.

4. Serve & Enjoy: Once cooked, remove the chicken strips from the oil and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb excess oil. Serve hot alongside your fries, and feel free to sprinkle extra Cajun seasoning or provide dipping sauces!

Tips for Serving

The best way to enjoy your Crispy Cajun Chicken Strips is to plate them family-style, creating a casual and inviting atmosphere. Use a large platter to display the crispy chicken and fries, inviting everyone to dig in.

To add extra flair, consider serving with a side of coleslaw or a fresh garden salad for a delightful crunch. Dipping sauces like ranch, honey mustard, or a classic buffalo sauce can elevate the meal. Don’t forget to sprinkle a bit of fresh parsley on top for a bright touch!

Storage Tips

To keep your Crispy Cajun Chicken Strips fresh longer, allow them to cool completely before storing. Place them in an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to extend their longevity, you can freeze them for up to two months—just be sure to separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

When ready to reheat, the best way is to bake in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. This method will help restore their crispiness!

Expert Advice

• For extra crunch, double-dredge your chicken strips: once in the egg and again in the flour mixture for an even thicker crispy coating.
• Use a thermometer to check the oil temperature; it should be around 350°F (175°C) for optimal frying.
• Allowing the chicken to marinate in the buttermilk for at least an hour (or overnight) will yield even more tender and flavorful chicken.

Creative Twists

Feel free to play with flavors! You can add a hint of lemon zest to the flour mixture for a citrusy kick or incorporate some cayenne pepper for an extra spicy version. For a feel of New Orleans flair, consider tossing some sliced jalapeños into the frying routine or topping your fries with cheese and green onions for loaded fries.

Common Questions

How long does it take to prepare the chicken strips?

The preparation usually takes about 15-20 minutes, plus another 15-20 minutes for frying, making it a relatively quick meal.

Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen fries?

Absolutely! Homemade fries are delicious; just remember to soak them in water for a bit before frying or baking to minimize starch and enhance crispiness.

How do I ensure my chicken strips stay juicy?

Marinating your chicken in buttermilk before breading not only tenderizes the meat but also adds moisture, ensuring a juicy bite every time.

Now, roll up your sleeves and get ready to enjoy this irresistible dish. Happy cooking!

Crispy Cajun Chicken Strips with Fries

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• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Diet: None

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Description

A simple and flavorful recipe for crispy Cajun chicken strips paired with fries, perfect for busy weeknights and family gatherings.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into strips)
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup cornstarch
• 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• 1/2 cup buttermilk
• Vegetable oil (for frying)
• 1 pound frozen French fries (or homemade fries)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (if using homemade fries)
• Salt to taste

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Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken Strips: Cut your chicken breasts into strips. Set up your breading stations: place the flour mixture on one side and the egg mixture on the other. Dip each chicken strip into the egg, allowing excess to drip off, then dredge in the flour mixture, ensuring a good coat.
2. Cook the Fries: Follow the package instructions for frozen fries or, if you’re feeling adventurous, slice potatoes, toss them with olive oil and salt, and bake until crispy and golden.
3. Fry the Chicken Strips: Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat. Carefully add chicken strips in batches, frying until they are golden brown and cooked through, which usually takes about 6-8 minutes. Keep an eye on the temperature of the oil to ensure they cook evenly.
4. Serve & Enjoy: Once cooked, remove the chicken strips from the oil and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb excess oil. Serve hot alongside your fries, and feel free to sprinkle extra Cajun seasoning or provide dipping sauces!

Notes

For extra crunch, double-dredge your chicken strips for an even thicker coating. Allow chicken to marinate in buttermilk for extra tenderness.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Frying
• Cuisine: Cajun

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 600
• Sugar: 1g
• Sodium: 700mg
• Fat: 30g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Unsaturated Fat: 20g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 65g
• Fiber: 5g
• Protein: 30g
• Cholesterol: 150mg

Keywords: chicken strips, Cajun chicken, fried chicken, easy recipe, family dinner, comfort food