Southern fried chicken is a dish that carries with it the heart and soul of Southern cooking, a tradition that has been passed down through generations. This particular recipe, paired with a creamy Cajun sauce, brings together the crispy, golden goodness of fried chicken with the rich, spicy flavors of Cajun cuisine. It's a dish that speaks of family gatherings on warm summer evenings, where stories are shared and laughter fills the air. Whether you're looking to recreate a taste of home or explore the comforting flavors of the South, this recipe is sure to bring joy to your table.
This southern fried chicken with creamy Cajun sauce pairs beautifully with classic sides like buttery mashed potatoes or fluffy cornbread. A fresh green salad or some collard greens can add a nice balance to the richness of the dish. For a true Southern feast, consider serving it with a side of coleslaw or some sweet corn on the cob. And don't forget a tall glass of sweet tea to wash it all down.
Southern Fried Chicken with Creamy Cajun SauceServings: 4
Ingredients
4 chicken thighs
4 chicken drumsticks
2 cups buttermilk
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon paprika
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
Vegetable oil for frying
1 cup heavy cream
1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
1 tablespoon butter
1 tablespoon chopped parsley
Directions
Place the chicken pieces in a large bowl and pour the buttermilk over them. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for best results.
In a separate bowl, mix together the flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper.
Remove the chicken from the buttermilk, allowing excess to drip off, and dredge each piece in the flour mixture, ensuring they are well coated.
Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or deep fryer to 350°F (175°C).
Fry the chicken in batches, turning occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through, about 12-15 minutes per batch. Drain on paper towels.
In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the Cajun seasoning and stir for about 1 minute.
Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer, stirring constantly until the sauce thickens slightly.
Serve the fried chicken hot, drizzled with the creamy Cajun sauce and garnished with chopped parsley.
Variations & Tips
For a spicier kick, increase the amount of cayenne pepper in the flour mixture or add some hot sauce to the buttermilk marinade. If you prefer a lighter sauce, substitute half of the heavy cream with chicken broth. For a gluten-free version, use a gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour. You can also experiment with different herbs in the sauce, such as thyme or oregano, to add a unique twist.
