Name: Cajun-Spiced Chicken Strips Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 ½ lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into strips; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; ½ teaspoon garlic powder; ½ teaspoon onion powder; ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for extra heat); ½ teaspoon salt; ¼ teaspoon black pepper

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

If you’re craving bold Southern flavors with minimal fuss, Cajun-Spiced Chicken Strips are about to become your new obsession. These juicy, golden strips deliver a kick of Cajun heat, layers of smoky depth, and just the right crunch, all baked (not fried!) for a healthier spin on a finger-licking favorite. Whether you pile them high on salads, tuck them into wraps, or serve hot alongside your favorite dip, there’s simply no wrong way to fall in love with these irresistible Cajun-Spiced Chicken Strips.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Cajun-Spiced Chicken Strips Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

With just a handful of straightforward ingredients, each one working its magic, you’ll have everything you need for flavor-packed chicken. Don’t underestimate how each spice or oil adds to the color, juiciness, and signature Southern kick that make these strips so memorable.

Chicken Breasts: Lean and juicy, these provide the perfect tender base for those bold Cajun flavors.
Olive Oil: Adds moisture and helps the spices stick beautifully to each strip.
Cajun Seasoning: The hero of this dish, delivering that unmistakable punch of garlic, paprika, cayenne, and earthy herbs.
Smoked Paprika: Brings a deep smoky flavor and rich color that’s seriously craveable.
Garlic Powder: Infuses each bite with mellow garlic warmth—super convenient and flavor-boosting.
Onion Powder: Adds a subtle savory sweetness to round out the seasoning blend.
Cayenne Pepper (optional): Turn up the heat by all means, or leave it out for a milder crowd-pleaser!
Salt: Essential for balance and making those spices pop.
Black Pepper: Lends a gentle background heat and complexity.

How to Make Cajun-Spiced Chicken Strips

Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Baking Sheet

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F—this ensures the chicken cooks quickly and holds onto its juiciness. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup, or give it a light grease if you’re out of parchment. The setup here means easy release and a golden bottom crust on each strip.

Step 2: Coat the Chicken in Spice

Grab a big mixing bowl and toss in your chicken strips along with olive oil, Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne if you love a fiery bite. Mix everything thoroughly so every piece is evenly coated—use your hands or tongs for the most even distribution. That glossy spice coating gives the Cajun-Spiced Chicken Strips their classic appeal and crave-worthy flavor.

Step 3: Arrange and Bake

Lay the chicken strips out in a single, non-overlapping layer on your prepared baking sheet. This gives each strip a chance to get lightly crisp on the edges without steaming. Pop them in the oven and bake for 18 to 20 minutes, flipping halfway to ensure golden, even cooking on both sides.

Step 4: Broil for Extra Crispiness

If you’re a texture lover (who isn’t?), once the strips are cooked through, flip your oven to broil for 2 to 3 minutes. Watch closely—this short blast gives irresistible crispy edges without drying out the meat inside.

Step 5: Serve Hot and Enjoy

Serve your Cajun-Spiced Chicken Strips while they’re piping hot! Whether you dip, pile, or snack, the combination of heat, smokiness, and succulent chicken is next-level delicious. Don’t forget a side of your favorite dipping sauce or some cool, creamy ranch to balance that Cajun kick.

How to Serve Cajun-Spiced Chicken Strips

Garnishes

Brighten up your Cajun-Spiced Chicken Strips with a generous sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley, cilantro, or thinly sliced green onions over the top. These pops of green add freshness, visual appeal, and a crisp flavor contrast that’s especially nice alongside the spicy, savory chicken.

Side Dishes

Balance that spicy goodness with classic sides like coleslaw, roasted sweet potatoes, or fluffy rice, each bringing a cooling or comforting note to the meal. They’re also fantastic alongside crisp garden salads or tucked into soft wraps with lettuce and tomato for a build-your-own dinner vibe.

Creative Ways to Present

Don’t stop at the ordinary—instead, layer strips over loaded grain bowls, slice and toss them onto a Caesar salad, or tuck them into taco shells with slaw for a Cajun Tex-Mex twist. Cajun-Spiced Chicken Strips can even be chopped and sprinkled onto pizza or piled into lunchboxes for a meal that looks and tastes restaurant-worthy.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftover Cajun-Spiced Chicken Strips, let them cool to room temperature first, then store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They’re perfect for tossing onto a salad or grabbing as a protein-packed snack straight from the fridge.

Freezing

These chicken strips freeze like a dream! Place cooled strips on a lined baking sheet, freeze until firm, then transfer to a zip-top bag or airtight container. They’ll keep well for up to 2 months and make speedy weeknight meals a total breeze.

Reheating

To revive the crispy magic, reheat Cajun-Spiced Chicken Strips in a hot oven (375°F) for about 10 minutes, or until heated through and edges are crispy again. Air fryers work beautifully for quick reheats too. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can sap the crispiness.

FAQs

Can I make Cajun-Spiced Chicken Strips in the air fryer?

Absolutely! Just arrange the coated strips in a single layer in your air fryer basket and cook at 390°F for about 10–12 minutes, turning halfway. They come out extra juicy and slightly crisp without any extra oil needed.

Is there a way to make the strips even spicier?

For true Cajun heat lovers, don’t be shy with the cayenne pepper, or mix in a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes. Another fun option: serve them with spicy dipping sauces like chipotle aioli or Sriracha ranch.

Can I use a different protein instead of chicken?

Definitely! The magic spice mix works beautifully on turkey strips, tofu, or even shrimp. Just adjust cooking times as needed since different proteins may require less (or more) time in the oven.

Are Cajun-Spiced Chicken Strips gluten-free?

Yes! With no breading required, these chicken strips are naturally gluten-free, making them friendly for a variety of diets. If you’re dipping or serving with wraps, just be sure those are gluten-free as well.

Can I prepare the strips ahead and cook later?

Meal prep champions, rejoice: you can absolutely coat the chicken strips in their seasoning blend ahead of time. Store them, tightly covered, in the fridge for up to 24 hours and bake them off when ready for best flavor and juiciness.

Final Thoughts

Give these Cajun-Spiced Chicken Strips a spot in your dinner rotation, and watch them disappear—whether you serve them up for a weeknight meal, a game day feast, or a quick lunch. With so much versatility and bold flavor, you might just find yourself making a double batch next time! Don’t wait: your taste buds will thank you.

Cajun-Spiced Chicken Strips Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.6 from 23 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

These Cajun-spiced chicken strips are a flavorful and easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for a quick weeknight meal. With a blend of Cajun spices and a hint of smokiness, these chicken strips are baked to juicy perfection with a crispy exterior. Serve them with your favorite dipping sauce or add them to salads, rice, or wraps for a delicious meal.

Ingredients

Scale

Ingredients:

1 ½ lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into strips
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon onion powder
¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for extra heat)
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
Toss chicken with seasonings: In a large bowl, toss the chicken strips with olive oil, Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and black pepper until evenly coated.
Bake: Arrange the chicken strips in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 18–20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chicken is cooked through and slightly crisp on the edges.
Optional broiling: For extra crispiness, broil for an additional 2–3 minutes at the end.
Serve: Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce or over salads, rice, or wraps.