bojangles chicken recipe
The Best bojangles chicken recipe
What I love most about this recipe is how simple it is without sacrificing flavor. The blend of spices gives it that signature Bojangles taste, and the buttermilk marinade keeps the chicken tender and moist. Plus, it’s a great way to get protein into the kids’ diets without any fuss. They don’t even realize they’re eating something that’s actually good for them—they’re too busy licking their fingers. I usually pair it with some homemade biscuits and a side of green beans for a balanced meal that everyone enjoys. If you’re looking for a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to make and even easier to eat, this is the one.
Bojangles-Style Cajun Fried Chicken
Crispy, spicy, and flavorful fried chicken inspired by Bojangles’ famous Cajun recipe. This dish features a well-seasoned flour coating and a perfect balance of heat and savory notes, best served with buttermilk biscuits.
🥘Ingredients
- 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
- 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken drumsticks
- 2 cups buttermilk
- 1 tbsp hot sauce (e.g., Tabasco)
- 2 tbsp paprika
- 1 tbsp garlic powder
- 1 tbsp onion powder
- 1 tbsp dried thyme
- 1 tbsp dried oregano
- 1 tbsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp cayenne pepper (adjust for heat)
- 1 tbsp salt
- 1 tsp white pepper
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning (from above)
- Vegetable oil (for deep frying, about 4 cups)
👨🍳Directions
-
1
In a large bowl, whisk together buttermilk and hot sauce. Add chicken pieces, ensuring they are fully coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (or overnight for best results). -
2
In a separate bowl, combine all Cajun seasoning ingredients and mix well. Set aside 2 tablespoons for the flour coating. -
3
In another bowl, mix flour, cornstarch, and the reserved 2 tablespoons of Cajun seasoning. Stir until evenly combined. -
4
Remove chicken from the buttermilk, allowing excess to drip off. Dredge each piece in the flour mixture, pressing firmly to adhere. Shake off excess and place on a wire rack for 5 minutes to set. -
5
Heat oil in a deep fryer or heavy pot to 350°F (175°C). Fry chicken in batches for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Avoid overcrowding the pot. -
6
Transfer fried chicken to a wire rack or paper towels to drain excess oil. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
🔧Equipment
- Large mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Deep fryer or heavy-bottomed pot
- Tongs
- Paper towels
- Wire rack
- Meat thermometer
📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)
📝Notes
Watch Video Of How Bojangles-Style Cajun Fried Chicken Works
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Bojangles-Style Cajun Fried Chicken
1. What are the key ingredients in Bojangles’ famous fried chicken recipe?
Bojangles’ fried chicken is known for its signature seasoning blend, which includes ingredients like salt, black pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and a mix of other spices. The exact recipe is a closely guarded secret, but the chicken is typically marinated in buttermilk before being coated in a seasoned flour mixture for that crispy, flavorful crust.
2. How does Bojangles achieve its crispy fried chicken texture?
The crispy texture comes from a combination of factors: the chicken is first marinated in buttermilk to tenderize it, then dredged in a seasoned flour mixture. It’s fried at the right temperature (usually around 350°F) to ensure a golden, crunchy exterior while keeping the meat juicy inside. Some believe the use of a pressure fryer also contributes to the signature crunch.
3. Can I make Bojangles-style fried chicken at home without a deep fryer?
Yes! While a deep fryer helps, you can achieve similar results using a heavy-bottomed pot or a cast-iron skillet with enough oil (about 1-2 inches deep). Heat the oil to 350°F and fry the chicken in batches to avoid overcrowding. For extra crispiness, you can also bake the chicken in the oven after frying to finish it off.
4. What sides pair best with Bojangles’ fried chicken?
Bojangles is famous for its Cajun-style sides, including:
– Dirty Rice (a flavorful rice dish with spices and meat)
– Cajun Pintos (seasoned pinto beans)
– Biscuits (buttery and flaky)
– Fries or Bo-Tato Rounds (crispy potato sides)
– Coleslaw (creamy or vinegar-based)
5. Is Bojangles’ chicken recipe spicy, and can I adjust the heat level?
Bojangles’ chicken has a mild to moderate kick from its Cajun-inspired seasoning. If you prefer less heat, you can reduce the amount of cayenne pepper or hot sauce in the marinade. For extra spice, add more cayenne, hot sauce, or even a dash of chili powder to the flour mixture.
