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Cajun cuisine is a culinary tradition that celebrates the use of bold flavors, fresh ingredients, and innovative cooking techniques. The hallmark of this cooking style is its ability to transform simple ingredients into extraordinary dishes. Central to Cajun cooking is the "holy trinity" of vegetables: onions, bell peppers, and celery. This aromatic trio serves as the base for many Cajun recipes, providing depth and flavor to various dishes.

Spicy Cajun Chicken Sandwiches

Explore the vibrant flavors of Cajun cuisine with this Spicy Cajun Chicken Sandwich recipe! Featuring perfectly marinated and breaded chicken cutlets, this dish offers a crispy texture and a fiery kick that spice lovers crave. With fresh toppings and a zesty spicy mayo, each bite is a celebration of bold tastes. Perfect for casual dinners or a flavorful lunch, this sandwich is sure to elevate your mealtime experience. Embrace the culinary adventure today!
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Ingredients
  

2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts

1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning

1 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

1/2 teaspoon onion powder

1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika

1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust based on your heat preference)

1/2 cup buttermilk

1 cup all-purpose flour

1/2 cup cornmeal

1 teaspoon baking powder

1/4 teaspoon baking soda

1/2 teaspoon dried thyme

1/2 cup mayonnaise

1 tablespoon hot sauce (adjust to taste)

4 sandwich buns (brioche or sesame seed recommended)

Leafy lettuce or arugula

Sliced tomatoes

Pickles (optional)

Cooking oil (for frying)

Instructions
 

Marinate the Chicken: Begin by slicing the chicken breasts horizontally to create thinner cutlets. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, Cajun seasoning, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper. Add the chicken cutlets, ensuring they are thoroughly coated in the marinade. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for a minimum of 1 hour, or ideally overnight, to enhance the flavor.

    Prepare the Breading: In a separate shallow dish, combine the all-purpose flour, cornmeal, baking powder, baking soda, and dried thyme. This mixture will provide a delicious, crispy coating for the chicken.

      Heat the Oil: In a large skillet or deep fryer, pour in enough cooking oil to create a depth of about 1 inch. Heat the oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). You can test the oil's readiness by dropping in a small amount of the breading; it should sizzle immediately.

        Bread the Chicken: Retrieve the marinated chicken from the refrigerator. Allow excess marinade to drip off each cutlet, then dredge it into the flour and cornmeal mixture, pressing lightly to ensure the coating adheres well.

          Fry the Chicken: Carefully place the breaded chicken cutlets in the hot oil, working in batches to prevent overcrowding. Fry for approximately 4-5 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and cooked through (the internal temperature should reach 165°F/74°C). Consider using a meat thermometer for accuracy. Once cooked, transfer the chicken to a paper towel-lined plate to absorb excess oil.

            Prepare the Spicy Mayo: While the chicken is frying, combine the mayonnaise and hot sauce in a small bowl. Mix until well blended and adjust the amount of hot sauce based on your desired level of heat.

              Assemble the Sandwiches: Slice each sandwich bun in half. Generously spread the spicy mayonnaise on both the top and bottom halves of the buns. Begin layering: place a handful of leafy lettuce or arugula on the bottom bun, followed by a fried chicken cutlet, a slice of tomato, and pickles if desired. Cap it off with the top half of the bun.

                Serve: Serve the spicy Cajun chicken sandwiches while hot, accompanied by your favorite sides, such as crispy french fries, crunchy coleslaw, or a fresh garden salad.

                  Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 30 minutes | 1 hour (plus marinating time) | 4 servings