Spicy Cajun Chicken Nuggets
Ever since I was little, I loved chicken nuggets, fingers, strips, etc. The plain flavor and delicious crunch always got to me. As I got older, I stemmed away from consistently ordering chicken nuggets/fingers at restaurants, as I wanted to expand my food horizon. While I get chicken nuggets out to eat maybe once a year now, I do not frown upon their childish association. Instead I still make my own to satisfy my craving. These Spicy Cajun Chicken Nuggets could be called adult chicken nuggets, as most young kids don't like spicy food. They're packed with flavor, but also are quick-to-make and simple, which I loved as a kid.
the details of the spicy cajun chicken nuggets
Using cajun seasoning and maybe a couple of extra spices, like cayenne or paprika, these chicken nuggets turn the heat up a notch. They are spicy, crunchy, and pair well with a ton of sauces. Using corn flakes as breadcrumbs is key, as these nuggets are baked, and won't get as much of a crunch if you used actual breadcrumbs. The corn flavor also pairs really well with the cajun spices. As for the Southern Comeback Sauce, if you want to balance out the heat of the nuggets, then the sauce is a must. While you can make it spicier, the mayo tones the spiciness down a bit, and overall the sauce adds a ton more flavor to what you're eating. Finally, another beauty of these nuggets is they are quick to make. In about 35-40 minutes, you will have a tasty meal, that you can double the recipe for and freeze for later.
nugget subsitutes
If you are not a fan of chicken, feel free to substitute with tofu. The nuggets will still be packed with flavor, they'll just cater more towards your dietary needs. As for the Southern Comeback Sauce, if you don't like mayonnaise, substitute it with plain greek yogurt. I have yet to try this myself, but I am confident that the sauce will taste just as good. If you don't like spicy sauce at all, these nuggets will also pair super well with honey mustard, ranch, and even ketchup.
Overall, if you make this recipe, please leave a comment below or tag me on Instagram. I love to hear from you guys and see how you put your own twist on my recipes!
Spicy Cajun Chicken Nuggets
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken cut into cubes
- 1/4 cup buttermilk
- 1 cup corn flakes finely crushed
- 1 tbsp flour
- 1 1/2 tbsp cajun seasoning if you want it less spicy, go for 1 tbsp. If you want the nuggets to be spicier add 2 tbsp
- black pepper
- olive oil
Southern Comeback Sauce
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup chili sauce
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 1 tsp spicy mustard
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp black pepper
- onion powder to taste
- garlic powder to taste
Instructions
- Add the chicken to a gallon size zip top bag. Pour the buttermilk over the chicken. I like to add salt, pepper, and paprika as well (eye it). Toss well to coat.
- Preheat the oven to 425 degrees F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil.
- Add the corn flake crumbs, flour, cajun seasoning, and a pinch of pepper to a medium-sized bowl. Stir to combine.
- Remove the chicken from the buttermilk, and dredge each piece through the crumbs, pressing gently to adhere. Place on the prepared baking sheet. Repeat until all the chicken has been used. Lightly brush the chicken with olive oil. Transfer to the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes.
- Meanwhile, make the Southern Comeback Sauce. Whisk all ingredients in a bowl or shake in a jar until smooth and well-combined.
- Serve the chicken topped with salt and the Southern Comeback Sauce for dipping. Enjoy!
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