Spicy Cajun Chicken & Creamy Cheesy Grits Recipe

Cajun chicken redefines humble ingredients into a fiery Southern delicacy that dances with bold, vibrant flavors.

Spicy seasonings and rich, creamy textures combine to create a meal bursting with regional character.

This hearty dish speaks to comfort and culinary tradition, weaving together robust proteins and smooth, melted cheese.

Warm, inviting aromas fill the kitchen as the chicken sizzles and the grits bubble gently.

Layer upon layer of zesty spices build complexity that will awaken your palate and spark excitement.

Authentic regional cooking techniques ensure each bite carries the soul of Louisiana’s passionate food culture.

The magic happens when carefully selected ingredients merge into a harmonious, mouthwatering experience.

Essential Ingredients for Cajun Chicken and Cheesy Grits

Main Ingredients:

• Chicken Breasts: Lean protein that forms the main dish, boneless and skinless for easy preparation.
• Egg: Helps breading stick to chicken, creating a crispy coating.
• Panko Bread Crumbs: Light and crispy coating that adds texture to the chicken.

• Cajun Seasoning: Provides bold, spicy flavor profile characteristic of Cajun cuisine.
• Garlic Powder: Adds depth and aromatic flavor to the chicken breading.
• Salt and Pepper: Essential basic seasonings to enhance overall taste.

• Grits: Classic Southern cornmeal base, creamy and comforting side dish.
• Milk, Chicken Broth: Liquid base that creates smooth, rich texture for grits.
• Butter, Shredded Cheese: Adds richness, creaminess, and extra flavor to the grits.

• Cooking Oil: Provides medium-high heat for even, golden-brown chicken frying.
• Hot Sauce: Optional condiment for adding extra heat and personal flavor preference.

Guide to Cajun Chicken and Cheesy Grits Preparation

Step 1: Prepare Chicken Breasts

Slice chicken breasts horizontally into thin pieces. Pat chicken completely dry using paper towels. Season with salt and pepper.

Step 2: Create Breading Station

• First bowl: Whisk egg thoroughly
• Second bowl: Mix
• Panko bread crumbs
• Cajun seasoning
• Garlic powder

Step 3: Coat Chicken

Dip each chicken piece into egg mixture, ensuring full coverage. Gently shake off excess. Transfer to breading mixture, pressing crumbs firmly onto chicken. Repeat for all pieces.

Step 4: Fry Chicken

Heat oil in pan over medium temperature. Cook breaded chicken until golden brown, approximately 3-4 minutes per side. Chicken should release easily from pan surface. Transfer to clean plate and rest for 2-3 minutes.

Step 5: Slice Chicken

Cut chicken into thin strips after resting.

Step 6: Prepare Cheesy Grits

• Milk
• Chicken broth
• Salt

Bring mixture to gentle simmer. Gradually whisk in grits.

Step 7: Cook Grits

Reduce heat to medium-low. Cook for 20 minutes, stirring frequently. Add water if grits stick to pan. Aim for creamy, smooth texture.

Step 8: Finish Grits

• Black pepper
• Butter
• Shredded cheese

Mix until cheese melts completely.

Step 9: Serve Dish

Spoon grits into serving bowls. Top with sliced chicken. Add hot sauce according to preference. Serve immediately while hot.

Pro Tips for Cajun Chicken and Cheesy Grits Success

• Master Chicken Thickness: Slice breasts evenly to ensure uniform cooking and prevent dry spots on the meat.
• Boost Breading Adherence: Press panko mixture firmly onto chicken to create a crispy, well-coated exterior that won't fall off during cooking.
• Control Pan Temperature: Use medium heat to achieve golden-brown breading without burning, allowing chicken to cook through perfectly.
• Prevent Grits Clumping: Whisk constantly during cooking and add liquid if mixture becomes too thick, maintaining a smooth, creamy texture.
• Elevate Flavor Profile: Experiment with different cheese varieties in grits or adjust Cajun seasoning intensity to personalize the dish's taste.

Storing and Reheating Cajun Chicken and Cheesy Grits with Ease

• Refrigeration: Transfer chicken and grits separately into airtight containers. Seal tightly and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep components separate to maintain their individual textures.
• Reheating Chicken: Warm chicken in a skillet over medium-low heat for 2-3 minutes, turning occasionally to prevent drying. Alternatively, use the microwave with a damp paper towel to retain moisture.
• Reheating Grits: Gently reheat grits in a saucepan, stirring continuously and adding a splash of milk or broth to restore creamy consistency. Avoid high heat to prevent burning or separation.

Best Pairings for Cajun Chicken and Cheesy Grits

• Enhance with Zesty Cocktail Pairing: Mix a spicy margarita with tequila, lime juice, and a dash of hot sauce to complement the Cajun chicken's bold flavors and match its heat intensity.
• Elevate with Crisp White Wine: Choose a chilled Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio, which cuts through the richness of the cheesy grits and provides a refreshing contrast to the spicy chicken.
• Balance with Fresh Herb Salad: Create a light side salad with mixed greens, cilantro, green onions, and a tangy vinaigrette to add brightness and cut through the dish's creamy and spicy elements.
• Finish with Southern-Style Dessert: Serve a classic peach cobbler or bourbon bread pudding that echoes the Southern roots of the Cajun chicken and grits, providing a sweet counterpoint to the savory main course.

Inspired Variations on Cajun Chicken and Cheesy Grits

• Spicy Island Chicken Grits: Transform the recipe by using Caribbean-inspired jerk seasoning instead of Cajun spices. Swap chicken broth with coconut milk for a tropical flavor profile and add diced mango or pineapple as a fresh topping.
• Southern Smoky Chicken Grits: Incorporate smoked paprika and chipotle powder into the breading mixture. Use smoked gouda cheese in the grits for a deeper, richer taste. Garnish with crispy bacon bits for extra texture.
• Mediterranean Herb Chicken Grits: Replace Cajun seasoning with a blend of dried oregano, thyme, and rosemary. Mix feta cheese into the grits and top with chopped fresh parsley. Drizzle with olive oil for a Mediterranean touch.
• Gluten-Free Almond Crusted Chicken Grits: Substitute panko bread crumbs with ground almonds and gluten-free cornmeal. Use almond milk in the grits and select a dairy-free cheese alternative for a lighter, allergen-friendly version.

Cajun Chicken and Cheesy Grits That Pack a Flavor Punch

• Spice Up Your Meal: Cajun seasoning transforms ordinary chicken into a flavor-packed dish that delivers a zesty, bold kick with every single bite.
• Crispy Meets Creamy Perfection: The golden-brown breaded chicken provides a satisfying crunch that beautifully contrasts with the velvety smooth, cheese-laden grits, creating a texture sensation.
• Quick and Impressive Weeknight Winner: This recipe comes together in under 30 minutes, making it an ideal meal for busy home cooks who want restaurant-quality flavor without complex cooking techniques or endless prep time.
• Comfort Food with a Southern Twist: Combines the classic southern comfort of cheesy grits with the exciting heat of Cajun-style chicken, delivering a soul-warming meal that feels both familiar and adventurous.

Cajun Chicken and Cheesy Grits Recipe

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4.9 from 36 reviews

• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Cajun chicken and cheesy grits bring Southern comfort to your plate with spicy, creamy perfection. Zesty Cajun seasoning dances over tender chicken nestled in rich, melted cheese grits that promise a delightful culinary journey you’ll savor.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Protein:

• 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts

Chicken Seasonings:

• 1.5 teaspoons Cajun seasoning
• 0.5 teaspoon salt
• 0.25 teaspoon pepper
• 0.5 teaspoon garlic powder

Coating Ingredients:

• 1 large egg
• 1 cup panko bread crumbs

Cooking Fat:

• 3 tablespoons (45 milliliters) canola oil or vegetable oil

Grits Base Liquids:

• 2 cups (480 milliliters) whole milk
• 2 cups (480 milliliters) chicken broth

Grits Ingredients:

• 1 cup stone ground grits (not instant)
• 0.5 teaspoon salt
• 0.25 teaspoon pepper

Grits Finishing Ingredients:

• 0.25 cup (60 grams) unsalted butter
• 4 ounces (113 grams) sharp cheddar cheese, shredded

Serving Condiment:

• Hot sauce, to taste

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Instructions

1. Prepare chicken breasts by slicing horizontally to create four thin, uniform pieces. Use paper towels to thoroughly dry the meat, ensuring a crisp coating.
2. Create two separate preparation stations: one with whisked egg and another with a mixture of panko breadcrumbs, Cajun seasoning, and garlic powder.
3. Dip each chicken piece into the egg wash, ensuring complete coverage, then transfer to the seasoned breadcrumb mixture. Press breadcrumbs firmly onto the chicken, creating an even, adherent coating.
4. Heat oil in a skillet over medium temperature until shimmering. Carefully place breaded chicken into the pan, maintaining space between pieces to prevent overcrowding.
5. Cook chicken for approximately 3-4 minutes per side, watching for a golden-brown exterior and ensuring the meat is fully cooked. The chicken should release easily from the pan when properly seared.
6. Allow cooked chicken to rest briefly before slicing into thin strips, which helps retain moisture and ensures even distribution of juices.
7. For grits, combine milk, chicken broth, and salt in a saucepan. Bring the liquid to a gentle simmer.
8. Gradually whisk grits into the simmering liquid, reducing heat to low. Stir frequently to prevent sticking and maintain a smooth consistency.
9. Cook grits for roughly 20 minutes, adding water if mixture becomes too thick. The final texture should be creamy and free of lumps.
10. Remove grits from heat and incorporate butter, pepper, and shredded cheese. Stir until ingredients are fully melted and integrated.
11. Plate the creamy grits, top with sliced Cajun chicken, and offer hot sauce on the side for personalized heat preference. Serve immediately while both components remain warm.

Notes

• Prep chicken carefully by slicing breasts horizontally to create thin, even pieces for faster and more consistent cooking.
• Pat chicken completely dry before breading to ensure a crispy, golden exterior that adheres perfectly.
• Use a mixture of panko breadcrumbs and Cajun seasoning for an extra-crunchy and flavor-packed coating.
• Cook chicken in a single layer without overcrowding to achieve maximum browning and prevent steaming.
• Whisk grits constantly during cooking to prevent lumps and create a smooth, creamy texture.
• Add cheese and butter at the end of cooking grits for a rich, luxurious finish that melts beautifully.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Dinner
• Method: Frying
• Cuisine: Cajun

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 570
• Sugar: 3 g
• Sodium: 850 mg
• Fat: 30 g
• Saturated Fat: 14 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 48 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Protein: 32 g
• Cholesterol: 145 mg