Best Cajun Fried Chicken Recipe delivers extra crispy crust, juicy marinated chicken, and bold Cajun spices. This Cajun fried chicken recipe uses a buttermilk marinade and seasoned flour coating before frying the chicken until golden and crunchy.
½teaspooncayenne pepperplus more to adjust to desired heat level
½teaspoonblack pepper
½teaspoonkosher salt
peanut oil, for fryingrefer to fryer manual for fill level
chopped green onions (optional)for garnish
Instructions
In a large bowl, whisk together buttermilk, egg, hot sauce, onion powder, oregano, garlic powder, smoked paprika, white pepper, cayenne pepper, Cajun seasoning, bouillon powder, and black pepper.
Submerge the chicken thighs and drumsticks in the marinade, ensuring they are fully coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours (or overnight for deeper flavor).
In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, cornstarch, corn flour, Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, black pepper, and salt.
Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting excess drip off.
Dredge each piece in the seasoned flour mixture, pressing firmly to ensure a thick coating.
Dip the coated chicken back into the buttermilk marinade, then dredge again in the flour mixture for an extra-crispy crust.
Place the coated chicken on a wire rack and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before frying.
Deep Fryer Method
Preheat the deep fryer to 350°F (175°C) and fill with peanut oil or lard according to the fryer’s capacity.
Carefully place 2-3 pieces of chicken into the fryer at a time (do not overcrowd).
Fry drumsticks for 12-14 minutes and thighs for 14-16 minutes, flipping halfway through if needed, until the crust is golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 175°F (80°C) for juicy, tender meat.
Use tongs to remove the chicken and place it on a wire rack to drain excess oil.
Cast Iron Skillet Method
Heat 1½ to 2 inches of oil in a large cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C).
Carefully place 3-4 pieces of chicken in the skillet, skin-side down.
Fry drumsticks for 6-7 minutes per side and thighs for 7-8 minutes per side, flipping once, until the crust is deep golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 175°F (80°C).
Transfer the chicken to a wire rack to drain.
Garnish with chopped green onions for extra flavor.
Notes
Cooking NotesButtermilk tenderizes the chicken while also helping the seasoned flour coating adhere. The combination of flour, cornstarch, and corn flour creates a crisp crust that fries up crunchy and flavorful. Resting the dredged chicken briefly before frying helps prevent the coating from sliding off.Tips for Best Results
Marinate the chicken long enough so the seasoning penetrates the meat.
Press the flour mixture firmly onto the chicken for a thicker crust.
Maintain the oil temperature around 350°F for even frying.
Drain the chicken on a rack rather than paper towels to keep it crisp.
How to Know It’s ReadyThe crust should be deep golden brown and crisp. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach about 175°F for tender dark meat.