Description
Enjoy these Crunchy Cajun Chicken Fingers, a perfect blend of spicy seasoning and crispy textures baked to golden perfection. Marinated in buttermilk and Cajun spices, then coated in a crispy mixture of panko, cornmeal, and Parmesan, these chicken fingers make a delicious and kid-friendly appetizer or main course.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken and Marinade
- 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken tenders (or chicken breasts cut into strips)
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning (plus extra for sprinkling)
Breading Mixture
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup cornmeal
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Baking
- Nonstick cooking spray or olive oil for baking
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil to prepare for baking.
- Marinate Chicken: In a bowl, combine the chicken strips with buttermilk and 1 tablespoon of Cajun seasoning. Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 15 minutes or up to 4 hours in the refrigerator for more intense flavor.
- Prepare Breading: In a separate bowl, mix together panko breadcrumbs, cornmeal, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Coat Chicken: Remove chicken from the marinade, letting any excess buttermilk drip off. Dredge each chicken strip into the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to ensure the coating sticks evenly.
- Arrange for Baking: Place the coated chicken fingers on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them evenly. Lightly spray the tops with nonstick cooking spray or drizzle with olive oil for a crispy finish.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 18 to 20 minutes, flipping the chicken fingers halfway through the cooking time, until they are golden brown and cooked through.
- Serve: Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauces such as ranch, honey mustard, or spicy mayo for added flavor.
Notes
- For extra heat, add cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the marinade.
- These chicken fingers can also be air fried at 400°F for about 10–12 minutes for a quicker cooking alternative.
- Serve with ranch, honey mustard, or a spicy mayo dip for different flavor options.
- To make gluten-free, substitute panko breadcrumbs and cornmeal with gluten-free alternatives.
