– **Title**: Cajun Chicken and Cheesy Grits
– **Ingredients**:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 cup quick cooking grits
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup green onions, chopped (for garnish)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– **Instructions**:
1. **Prepare the Chicken**: Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Rub the Cajun seasoning generously over both sides of each chicken breast, ensuring they are well coated.
2. **Cook the Chicken**: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken breasts and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until they are cooked through and have a nice golden crust. Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest.
3. **Make the Grits**: In the same skillet, add the chicken broth and bring it to a boil. Gradually stir in the grits, reduce the heat to medium-low, and simmer for about 5-7 minutes or until the grits are thickened and cooked.
4. **Add Cheese and Cream**: Stir in the heavy cream and the shredded cheddar cheese into the cooked grits. Mix well until the cheese is melted and the grits are creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. **Serve**: Slice the rested Cajun chicken and serve it on a bed of cheesy grits. Garnish with chopped green onions for a fresh touch.
6. **Enjoy**: Serve warm and enjoy the flavorful combination of Cajun-spiced chicken and rich, cheesy grits!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this recipe. If you’re looking for a healthier option, skinless chicken thighs could be a great substitute—they stay moist and flavorful!
Buttermilk: This adds moisture and flavor to the chicken. If you don’t have buttermilk, you can easily make your own by adding 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice to a cup of milk. Let it sit for about 5 minutes for best results.
Cajun Seasoning: The heart of the dish! You can buy ready-made Cajun seasoning or make your own using paprika, cayenne, garlic powder, and oregano. Adjust the spice levels to suit your taste!
Grits: Stone-ground grits are ideal for creamy texture. If they’re unavailable, quick or instant grits will work, but they may have a slightly different texture and flavor.
Cheddar Cheese: I recommend sharp cheddar for the best flavor. You can substitute with Monterey Jack for a milder taste or even a non-dairy cheese if you’re avoiding dairy.
How Do I Make Creamy Grits Every Time?
Cooking grits might seem tricky, but with the right technique, you’ll achieve creamy perfection. The key is to gradually whisk the grits into the boiling liquid to prevent lumps.
- Start with boiling water or broth. A well-seasoned broth can enhance the flavor significantly.
- Gradually add the grits while whisking constantly. This helps keep them smooth.
- Reduce the heat and cover. Stir occasionally for 20-25 minutes. If they seem thick, you can add a bit more water or broth to loosen them up.
- Mix in cheese and butter at the end for extra creaminess. Don’t forget to season!
With this method, you’ll always have a comforting side ready to complement your Cajun chicken.
How to Make Cajun Chicken and Cheesy Grits
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Cajun Chicken:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- ½ cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko for extra crunch)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Vegetable oil (for frying)
For the Cheesy Grits:
- 1 cup grits (preferably stone-ground)
- 4 cups water (or chicken broth for more flavor)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 tablespoons butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: chopped green onions or parsley for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 1 hour for marinating the chicken (you can do this overnight for better flavor) and 30-40 minutes for cooking. Overall, plan for about 1 hour and 30 minutes, including prep and cook time to make this delicious dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Marinate the Chicken:
Begin your delicious journey by marinating the chicken. In a bowl, mix together the buttermilk and Cajun seasoning until well combined. Add the chicken breasts, ensuring they are fully submerged in the marinade. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 1 hour—if you have time, letting it sit overnight will enhance the flavors!
2. Cook the Grits:
While the chicken is marinating, you can prepare your cheesy grits. In a medium saucepan, bring 4 cups of water (or chicken broth for extra flavor) to a boil. Gradually whisk in the grits, stirring well to prevent lumps. Lower the heat to a simmer, cover the pot, and allow the grits to cook for about 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are thick and creamy.
3. Cheesy Up the Grits:
Once your grits are cooked, stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and butter. Mix until everything is melted and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Keep the grits warm on the stove while you work on the chicken.
4. Prepare the Chicken for Frying:
In a shallow dish, combine the flour, breadcrumbs, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Take the chicken out of the buttermilk marinade, letting any excess drip off. Dredge each piece in the flour mixture, pressing lightly to help it stick well.
5. Fry the Chicken:
Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the coated chicken breasts to the skillet. Fry them for about 4-5 minutes on each side, until they are golden brown and cooked through (the internal temperature should reach 165°F). Once done, remove the chicken and let it rest on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb excess oil.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
To serve, spoon a generous portion of the cheesy grits into bowls, top with sliced Cajun chicken, and sprinkle some chopped green onions or parsley for a fresh touch. Enjoy your flavorful Cajun Chicken and Cheesy Grits!
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese for the Grits?
Absolutely! While cheddar cheese gives the grits a classic flavor, you can experiment with other cheeses like gouda, pepper jack for a bit of spice, or even cream cheese for a creamier texture. Just make sure to let the cheese melt thoroughly for the best results.
What Can I Substitute for Buttermilk?
If you don’t have buttermilk on hand, don’t worry! You can make a quick substitute by mixing 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it thickens slightly, then use it as you would buttermilk in the recipe.
Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover Cajun chicken and cheesy grits in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm the chicken in the oven or microwave and add a splash of water or broth to the grits to bring back the creamy texture. Stir well while reheating to ensure even warmth!
