Satisfy Your Cravings: Blackened Chicken Sandwich Recipe
There’s nothing quite like biting into a perfectly crafted sandwich – the crunch of the bread, the tenderness of the meat, and the flavor explosion that comes with every bite. And when it comes to sandwiches, few things can beat a Blackened Chicken Sandwich with Cajun Slaw. As someone who has experimented with countless recipe variations over the years, I can confidently say that this particular creation is one of my all-time favorites.
Now, let me tell you why you need to give this recipe a try. First and foremost, it’s packed with flavor – from the Cajun-spiced chicken to the creamy, zesty slaw. But beyond that, it’s also incredibly versatile. Whether you’re cooking up a quick lunch for yourself or serving guests at a backyard barbecue, this sandwich is sure to leave everyone craving more.
So if you’re looking for a delicious and easy-to-make meal that will satisfy even the pickiest of eaters, look no further than my Blackened Chicken Sandwich with Cajun Slaw recipe. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Listen up, my fellow foodies! I’m here to tell you why this Blackened Chicken Sandwich with Cajun Slaw recipe is a must-try.
Firstly, this sandwich is packed with flavor. The blackened chicken is coated in a mix of spices, including paprika, thyme, oregano, garlic powder, and more. Then, it’s fried to perfection in butter to give it a crispy texture. Trust me when I say that the combination of the seasonings and cooking method is out-of-this-world delicious.
But wait, there’s more! The cajun slaw adds another layer of complexity to the sandwich. It’s made with green and red bell peppers, sweet onion, cabbage, celery seed, and a dressing consisting of mayonnaise, cider vinegar, sugar and other ingredients. The result is a crunchy, creamy and tangy flavor that perfectly complements the spicy chicken.
And let’s not forget about the sandwich itself. Because what is a good sandwich without great bread? Whether you choose a classic hoagie roll or something heartier like sourdough bread or brioche buns – it’s all up to you ,the options are endless.
Plus, this recipe can be customized to suit your personal taste preferences. If you like it spicy- add more hot sauce or jalapeno slices. If you prefer something milder- go easy on the pepper seasoning or slaw dressing.
Finally, the fact that this dish is super easy to make should be an extra incentive for you to give it a try at home. Even if you have no previous experience with “blackening” meat or making slaw from scratch- this recipe is foolproof.
In conclusion my dear food enthusiasts- do yourself a favor and give this Blackened Chicken Sandwich with Cajun Slaw recipe a try. Your taste buds will thank you!
Ingredient List
Before we get cooking, let’s take a look at the ingredient list for our Blackened Chicken Sandwich with Cajun Slaw. You will need:
Blackened Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken cutlets
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- ¼ teaspoon white pepper
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 4 tablespoons butter
Cajun Slaw
- 4 cups green cabbage, finely sliced
- 1 sweet onion, thinly sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, seeded and thinly sliced
- 1 red bell pepper, seeded and thinly sliced
- 1 tablespoon celery seed
- 2 tsp sugar
- Salt and pepper
- ¼ cup cider vinegar
- ½ cup mayonnaise
Spicy Mayo:
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon hot pepper sauce
Sandwich Buns and Toppings:
- 4 sandwich buns, sliced in half and toasted
- Ranch dressing (optional)
Note: You can adjust the amount of spices based on your preferences. Instead of blackening seasoning, you can also use fried chicken or cajun chicken seasoned with similar spices. For a healthier option, substitute chicken breast for the cutlets.
The Recipe How-To
Here’s where the magic happens. This is the part where I guide you through the step-by-step process of creating your very own Blackened Chicken Sandwich with Cajun Slaw. It will take some time and effort, but I promise you it will be worth it.
Ingredients you’ll need
First things first, let’s go over the ingredient list so you can make sure you have everything before getting started. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 4 medium chicken cutlets
- 1 tablespoon kosher salt
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
- 2 teaspoons dried thyme
- 2 teaspoons dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon white pepper
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 sweet onion, thinly sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1/2 teaspoon celery seed
- 4 cups green cabbage, thinly sliced
For the Cajun slaw, you’ll need:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 teaspoons cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon pepper
- 1 teaspoon celery seed
- 1/4 cup hot pepper sauce
- Juice of one lemon
- Slaw mix (cabbage, carrot, and onion)
And for the spicy mayo, you’ll need:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- Hot sauce
Step-by-step instructions
Now that we have all our ingredients ready to go, here’s how to make this delicious sandwich:
Step One: Blackening the Chicken
In a small bowl combine the kosher salt, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika,white pepper, and dried herbs until well combined.
Season both sides of each chicken breast with this blackening spice blend. Heat a large skillet over high heat until it begins to smoke.
Add in melted butter and heat until it has stopped bubbling (about two minutes). Add in your seasoned chicken breasts carefully into your skillet (you will hear some sizzling noises).
Cook each side for about five minutes or until each side gets darker in color and develops a blackened crust.
Step Two: Preparing the Cajun Slaw
While your chicken is being cooked, let’s prepare our Cajun slaw. In a bowl combine mayonnaise, cider vinegar, sugar, salt,cayenne pepper sauce with hot sauce for spiciness.
Mix well and keep refrigerated until ready to serve.
Step Three: Preparing Spicy Mayo
To make our spicy mayo spread for this sandwich put together mayonnaise and hot sauce to taste; set aside
Substitutions and Variations
The beauty of cooking is how you can tweak and adjust recipes to your taste. Here are some substitutions and variations for the Blackened Chicken Sandwich with Cajun Slaw recipe that you can experiment with:
1. Mayonnaise: If you’re not a fan of mayonnaise, you can swap it for plain Greek yogurt or sour cream. This will add a tangy flavor to the slaw.
2. Blackened Chicken: Instead of using chicken breast, you can use boneless and skinless chicken thighs or tenderloins. You could also swap the blackening seasoning for a simple salt and pepper seasoning or use your favorite store-bought marinade.
3. Coleslaw: The Cajun Slaw recipe calls for green cabbage, sweet onion, green bell pepper, and red bell pepper. You could try adding shredded carrots or jicama for additional texture and flavor.
4. Spicy Mayo: If you want to turn up the heat in your sandwich, you can add hot sauce to the mayo mixture or use chipotle mayo instead of the regular one.
5. Cheese: You could add melted cheese to your sandwich to make it even more hearty and delicious. Try using pepper jack cheese or blue cheese crumbles.
6. Bread: Swap out the bun for a baguette or hoagie roll to make it more like po’ boy sandwich.
Remember, these are just suggestions! Feel free to get creative and come up with your own substitutions and variations based on your preferences.
Serving and Pairing
Ah, the moment of truth! You’ve made it. After all the hard work and effort, here’s the payoff: serving and enjoying your blackened chicken sandwich with cajun slaw.
First things first, this sandwich pairs well with a range of beverages – from beer to soda. A cold one, paired with the spicy flavor of your blackened chicken sandwich, can be a match made in heaven. But if you are feeling a bit more fancy or sophisticated, wine is also a great pairing choice. A full-bodied red wine could complement the smoky, meaty flavor of the sandwich perfectly.
Now let’s talk sides. There are tons of options for sides you can add to your meal to complete it or make it more satisfying. Fresh cut fries or sweet potato fries can be an excellent bet here to cut through the heat from the cajun slaw and spice on the chicken cutlets. A hearty salad with maybe some nuts and seeds could also freshen up your taste buds in between bites.
But let’s not forget about this sandwich’s perfect partner- pickles! Crispy dill pickles would provide your palate with an add-on tanginess that will balance all aspects of the spiciness and smoky flavors emanating from the blackened chicken’s juices.
Another great option would be roasted potatoes – something hearty enough to counteract any fatigue from all that chewing on the spicy stack of goodness you’ve got going on in front of you! As an alternative, coleslaw piled high along with your sandwich would make perfect sense so you can dollop each bite with extra Cajun mayo, slaw and savory seasonings for added crunch.
So soften up those buns, grab a plate and dig into this zesty creation—with a thirst-quenching drink next to you and pickled cucumbers nearby—you’re all set! Enjoy your Blackened Chicken Sandwich With Cajun Slaw Recipe like never before.
Make-Ahead, Storing and Reheating
Now that you’ve created this delicious Blackened Chicken Sandwich with Cajun Slaw, you might be wondering what the best way is to store and reheat it for future enjoyment. Luckily, this recipe can easily be made ahead, stored in the fridge or freezer, and reheated for a quick and satisfying meal.
If you plan on making these sandwiches ahead of time, I recommend preparing the blackened chicken and cajun slaw separately, as they will keep better that way. Once assembled, the bread will absorb moisture from the slaw which can cause it to become soggy over time. Keep your chicken cutlets in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
To reheat the blackened chicken cutlets, place them on a baking sheet and warm them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-12 minutes or until heated through. You can also use a toaster oven or microwave if you’re short on time, but the oven will give your chicken a crispier texture.
As for the cajun slaw, it’s best to store it separately from the chicken. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. If you find that the slaw has exuded a lot of liquid after being in the fridge, simply drain off any excess before serving or re-mixing.
When it comes time to assemble your sandwiches, toast your bread lightly and pile everything high on top! The combination of spicy mayo, blackened chicken cutlets, and tangy slaw is sure to hit every flavor note just right.
Overall, these sandwich components hold up pretty well when stored properly – making this recipe an easy one to prep ahead of time for busy weeknight dinners or weekend lunches on-the-go.
Tips for Perfect Results
When it comes to preparing the perfect Blackened Chicken Sandwich with Cajun Slaw recipe, I’ve learned a few tips that have made all the difference in the final product.
First, when coating the chicken in the blackening spice mix, make sure it’s evenly coated on both sides and pressed into the chicken cutlets. This will ensure an even distribution of flavor throughout the meat.
Secondly, be sure to use a cast-iron skillet or griddle at high heat when cooking the chicken. The heat should be hot enough to cause some smoke, which will give the chicken its signature blackened crust.
When making the Cajun slaw, try to avoid adding too much dressing at once. It’s best to add it gradually and toss until you get the desired amount, otherwise, the slaw can become soggy.
Another important aspect of making the slaw is to let it sit for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together and gives a more flavorful result.
If you’re looking for that extra kick of heat, make your own spicy mayo by mixing mayonnaise with hot pepper sauce in a small bowl, cover, and chill until ready to use.
Lastly, don’t be afraid to get creative with your toppings! Some delicious additions include grilled Cajun peppers, blue cheese crumbles, or a pile of coleslaw on top of your sandwich.
By following these tips, you’ll be able to create a delicious and restaurant-quality Blackened Chicken Sandwich with Cajun Slaw that will satisfy even the hungriest eaters at your table.
FAQ
As much as we all love a good chicken sandwich, there can be some uncertainty when it comes to preparing one to perfection. Fear not though, as I’m here to provide answers to some commonly asked questions about this blackened chicken sandwich with Cajun slaw recipe. So, let’s dive in and clear up any doubts you might have!
What is a Blackened Chicken Sandwich?
If you’re looking to switch up your fast food order, give the Blackened Chicken Sandwich from Popeyes a try. This sandwich incorporates a whole chicken breast that has been soaked in a marinade for 12 hours, much like the popular fried chicken sandwich from the same restaurant. To add some spice and flavor, the chicken breast is coated with a mixture of Cajun and Creole seasonings, including garlic, cumin, onions, and three different types of pepper – black, white, and red. Plus, the paprika in the seasoning mix gives the sandwich an eye-catching color.
What does it mean to blacken chicken?
When food is described as “blackened,” it doesn’t necessarily mean that it is burnt. Rather, it refers to the unique spice mix that coats the food and gives it a dark, almost black appearance when cooked using methods such as grilling, pan-frying or baking. Typically, this technique is used on meat, poultry, and seafood, including fish and shellfish like shrimp. This cooking method aims to enhance the flavors, add a crunchy texture and create a visually appealing appearance to the dish.
How many calories in a Blackened Chicken Sandwich from Popeyes?
Beginning on Tuesday, the fast-food restaurant will be offering a fresh addition to its menu, the Blackened Chicken Sandwich. The new item is relatively healthier than the chain’s traditional fried chicken sandwich, containing around 973 calories as compared to 1,122 calories. This information has been confirmed by the chain. The availability of this dish is set for November 15th, 2022.
Bottom Line
In conclusion, this Blackened Chicken Sandwich with Cajun Slaw recipe is perfect for people who love bold and spicy flavors. With the right amount of seasoning and the perfect balance of ingredients, this dish will surely be a hit at any gathering or party.
Whether you are an experienced chef or just learning to cook, this recipe is easy to follow and can be customized to fit your preferences. And with its ability to be made-ahead, stored, and reheated, this dish makes for a convenient and yummy meal option.
I highly recommend trying out this recipe at home. Not only will it inspire you in the kitchen, but it will also impress your family, friends, or guests with its exceptional taste.
So what are you waiting for? Head on over to your local grocery store and grab all the ingredients listed in this article. I promise you won’t regret making this Blackened Chicken Sandwich with Cajun Slaw recipe!
Blackened Chicken Sandwich With Cajun Slaw Recipe
Ingredients
- 4 chicken cutlets, cut in half lengthwise and pounded thin
- 4 kaiser rolls
- 1/4 cup butter, melted (divided)
For the blackening rub
- 1/2 tablespoon paprika
- 1 1/4 teaspoons kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon white pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/4 teaspoon celery seed
For the slaw
- 1/4 head green cabbage, thinly sliced
- 1/4 green bell peppers or 1/4 red bell pepper, thin julienne sliced
- 1/4 sweet onion, thin julienne sliced
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon blackening seasoning
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon pepper
- 1 teaspoon hot sauce
- 1/4 teaspoon celery seed
Instructions
- Mix the dry rub ingredients together.
- To make the slaw: Put the cabbage, bell pepper and onion in a bowl. Whisk the remaining ingredients together, pour over the veggies and toss to coat. Add a little of the dressing at a time until you get the consistency wanted. Can make ahead and refrigerate it for 2-3 hours before eating.
- Preheat a grill with a cast iron skillet or griddle plate to 450 degrees. (May, also, be cooked in cast iron using a burner.).
- Brush buns lightly with butter and toast until browned, about 15-30 seconds; set aside.
- Drizzle just enough of the melted butter (about 1 tablespoon) over the chicken breasts to lightly coat. Season with 1/2 of the dry rub. It should be pretty thick to form a ‘crust’.
- Ladle a few tablespoons of the butter onto the hot griddle and place the cutlets onto the griddle seasoned side down. (Note: The butter may smoke a LOT. That’s why it’s cooked outside, just don’t spill butter on the flames or it will flame up.) Cook until the edges of the cutlets start to turn white, about 3-5 minutes.
- Ladle the remaining butter over the chicken and season with the remaining dry rub. Flip and cook until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 155-160 degrees, about 3-5 minutes.
- Remove chicken and serve on toasted buns with the slaw.
Your own notes
Nutrition
Tony is an experienced chef, crafting delicious comfort food. He’s also an influential blogger, providing helpful recipes and tips on his website, taosburgersandbeer.com. As an expert in his field, he offers valuable advice to readers. His knowledge and creative recipes make it easy to cook exciting, flavorful dishes.