Crispy-Skinned Cajun Chicken

Crispy-Skinned Cajun Chicken is a flavorful and satisfying dish that combines the perfect balance of spiced seasoning with juicy chicken and crispy, golden skin. This easy recipe is sure to become a weeknight favorite, offering bold, zesty flavors with minimal prep time.

Ingredients

  • 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
  • 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels to ensure a crispy skin when cooking.
  3. Rub the Cajun seasoning evenly all over the chicken thighs, making sure every part is coated. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  4. Heat the olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat.
  5. Place the chicken thighs skin-side down in the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the skin is crispy and golden brown.
  6. Flip the chicken thighs over and transfer the skillet to the preheated oven.
  7. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
  8. Serve hot and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

  • Servings: 4
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 35 minutes
  • Total Time: 45 minutes

Variations

  • Spice Level: Adjust the amount of Cajun seasoning to your preferred spice level, or mix in some cayenne pepper for extra heat.
  • Herbs: Add fresh thyme or rosemary to the skillet for added flavor during cooking.
  • Chicken Breasts: This recipe can also work with chicken breasts, though adjust the cooking time to ensure they stay juicy.

Storage/Reheating

  • Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Freezing: You can freeze the cooked chicken thighs for up to 3 months. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then foil before freezing.
  • Reheating: Reheat the chicken in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes to keep the skin crispy.

10 FAQs

  1. Can I use boneless chicken thighs? Yes, boneless thighs can be used, but the cooking time will be shorter. Bake for about 20-25 minutes instead.
  2. What if I don’t have an oven-safe skillet? If you don’t have an oven-safe skillet, you can transfer the chicken to a baking dish after browning the skin.
  3. Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs? Yes, though thighs are ideal for this recipe due to their tenderness and juiciness. If using breasts, adjust the cooking time.
  4. Can I make this dish on the stovetop only? Yes, you can cook the chicken entirely on the stovetop by lowering the heat after browning the skin and covering the skillet to cook through.
  5. Can I use homemade Cajun seasoning? Absolutely! A homemade Cajun seasoning with a blend of paprika, cayenne, garlic powder, and other spices works perfectly.
  6. What side dishes go well with this chicken? This crispy Cajun chicken pairs well with sides like roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad.
  7. How do I know when the chicken is done? The chicken is fully cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C), and the juices run clear.
  8. Can I make this with other cuts of chicken? Yes, drumsticks or chicken wings can also work, but adjust the cooking times based on the size of the chicken.
  9. Can I cook the chicken in a different pan? Yes, you can use any oven-safe pan or skillet for this recipe, as long as it can handle the oven temperature.
  10. Is it necessary to dry the chicken before cooking? Yes, patting the chicken dry ensures the skin crisps up properly and gives the seasoning a better chance to adhere.

Conclusion

Crispy-Skinned Cajun Chicken is an easy and flavorful dish that is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a casual gathering. The combination of crispy skin and bold Cajun spices delivers a dish that is both satisfying and simple to make. With just a few ingredients and minimal effort, this recipe is sure to become a household favorite.

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Crispy-Skinned Cajun Chicken


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  • Author: Lina Judi
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

Description

 

This Crispy-Skinned Cajun Chicken is the perfect combination of crispy, flavorful skin and juicy, tender meat. Coated in bold Cajun seasoning, it’s a simple yet delicious dish that’s sure to impress.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
  • 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  • Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
  • Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels.
  • Rub the Cajun seasoning all over the chicken thighs, making sure to coat them evenly.
  • Heat the olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat.
  • Place the chicken thighs skin-side down in the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes until the skin is crispy and golden brown.
  • Flip the chicken thighs over and transfer the skillet to the preheated oven.
  • Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
  • Serve hot and enjoy!

Notes

  • For extra crispiness, make sure the chicken is thoroughly dried before seasoning.
  • Feel free to adjust the amount of Cajun seasoning to suit your spice preference.
  • Pair this dish with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 35 minutes

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