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This dish brings together flavorful Cajun chicken and creamy, cheesy grits that are so comforting! The spices in the chicken give it a fun kick, paired perfectly with the smooth grits.
You might find yourself wanting to hug your plate—it’s that good! I love how the spices dance on my tongue, while the grits make everything feel cozy and warm.
Whenever I make this, my family can’t wait to dig in. It’s a simple meal that’s great for weeknights and feels like a special treat!
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Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breast: Boneless, skinless chicken breast is perfect for this recipe. If you’re looking for a change, try boneless thighs for more juiciness!
Cajun Seasoning: This is key for flavor. If you don’t have it, mix paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder for a homemade version. Adjust heat to your liking!
Buttermilk: It’s great for tenderizing the chicken. If you don’t have it, use milk mixed with a tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice and let it sit for 5-10 minutes.
Bread Crumbs: I love using panko for extra crunch, but regular breadcrumbs work too. If gluten is a concern, look for gluten-free breadcrumbs as a suitable substitute.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar gives a rich flavor to grits. You can swap it for Monterey Jack or Gruyère cheese for a different twist!
How Do I Get Golden and Crispy Chicken Every Time?
Achieving that perfect golden crust takes a bit of attention. Here’s a simple method to make sure your chicken turns out crispy and flavorful:
- First, ensure your oil is hot enough before adding the chicken; test by dropping in a piece of bread – it should sizzle immediately.
- Don’t overcrowd the skillet. Cook in batches if necessary, so the chicken fries evenly.
- Let the chicken rest after cooking. This helps keep it juicy as the juices settle back into the meat.
What’s the Best Way to Prepare Creamy Grits?
For creamy grits, it’s essential to focus on the cooking process. Here’s a step-by-step approach:
- Start by boiling your chicken broth or water, then gradually whisk in the grits to avoid lumps.
- Reduce the heat to low after adding the grits and stir often. This prevents sticking and helps them cook evenly.
- For extra creaminess, the addition of heavy cream and butter is key. Stir them in after cooking and while the mixture is hot.
Delicious Cajun Chicken and Cheesy Grits
What You’ll Need:
For the Cajun Chicken:
- 1 lb chicken breast (boneless, skinless)
- 2 tsp Cajun seasoning
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp oil for frying
For the Cheesy Grits:
- 1 cup grits (stone-ground or quick-cooking)
- 4 cups chicken broth (or water)
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp butter
- Optional garnish: chopped fresh parsley or green onions
How Much Time Will You Need?
This scrumptious dish is perfect for a cozy dinner and will take about 30 minutes of prep time, plus an additional 25-30 minutes for cooking. So, you’re looking at around an hour to enjoy this hearty meal from start to finish. It’s well worth the wait!
Instructions:
Let’s dive into making your Cajun chicken and cheesy grits! First, we want to give our chicken some flavor. In a bowl, combine the chicken breasts with buttermilk and Cajun seasoning. Cover it up and pop it in the fridge for at least 30 minutes to marinate. This step is key for juicy, flavorful chicken!
While the chicken is soaking up all that goodness, it’s time to set up your breading station. Grab three bowls: in the first one, mix together the flour with a sprinkle of salt and pepper. In the second, beat the two eggs. And in the third, fill it with your breadcrumbs. Prepping these stations makes it easy to coat the chicken later on.
Now it’s time to bread the chicken! Take the marinated chicken out of the fridge and let the excess buttermilk drip off. Start with a piece of chicken, dredge it in the flour mixture, then dip it into the egg, and finally coat it with breadcrumbs. Make sure that each piece is well-covered; this will help you get that lovely crispy texture when you cook it!
Next up, let’s cook that chicken! Heat the oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Once it’s hot, carefully add the breaded chicken. Cook it for about 5-7 minutes on each side, until it turns golden brown and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. Once it’s done, remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for a moment while you whip up the cheesy grits.
In a pot, bring your chicken broth (or water) to a boil. Gradually whisk in the grits, stirring continuously to keep any lumps at bay. Once it’s in, lower the heat and let it cook for about 15-20 minutes, stirring often. You want those grits to thicken up beautifully!
Now comes the best part! Stir in the heavy cream, garlic powder, cheese, and butter until the cheese is melted and everything is nice and creamy. Don’t forget to season with salt and pepper to taste – this is where you can really make it yours!
It’s time to bring it all together. Spoon the luscious cheesy grits into a serving bowl or dish. Slice your Cajun chicken and place those golden pieces right on top of the grits. If you like a little heat, feel free to drizzle some hot sauce over it and finish with a sprinkle of chopped parsley or green onions for a fresh touch.
All that’s left to do is dig in and enjoy your delicious Cajun chicken and cheesy grits! This dish is sure to warm your heart and satisfy your taste buds. Happy cooking!
Can I Use Different Cheese for the Grits?
Absolutely! While sharp cheddar adds a nice flavor, you can substitute with other cheeses like Gouda, Monterey Jack, or even pepper Jack for a spicy twist. Just make sure whatever cheese you choose melts well!
How Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
To make this dish gluten-free, simply swap the all-purpose flour and breadcrumbs for gluten-free alternatives. Use gluten-free flour for breading and gluten-free panko or crushed cornflakes for the chicken coating. The grits are naturally gluten-free, so you’re good to go!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For the grits, they may thicken as they cool; you can add a splash of chicken broth or water when reheating to loosen them back up!
Can I Marinate the Chicken Overnight?
Yes, marinating the chicken overnight will enhance the flavor! Just make sure to keep it covered in the refrigerator. If you’re in a hurry, a minimum of 30 minutes works too, but longer is better for more flavor!
