Crispy Cajun Chicken Thighs and Green Beans with Sriracha Mayo
Introduction
If you’re looking for a flavorful, easy-to-make meal that packs a punch, look no further! My crispy Cajun chicken thighs paired with roasted green beans and a tangy sriracha mayo dipping sauce is the perfect combination. This dish is not only delicious but also nutritious, making it a great option for a weeknight dinner or a meal prep staple.
Ingredients
Chicken Thighs:
Bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
Slap Ya Mama seasoning or your favorite Cajun seasoning
Green Beans:
Fresh green beans, trimmed
Slap Ya Mama seasoning or your favorite Cajun seasoning
Sriracha Mayo: I used Sprouts brand but you can make your own
1/2 cup mayonnaise
2-3 tablespoons sriracha sauce (adjust to taste)
1 teaspoon lemon juice (optional, for added tang)
Instructions
Preparation:
Pat dry the chicken thighs using paper towels. This helps to ensure they get crispy when cooked and let them sit out 30 minutes ahead of cooking so they cook evenly throughout.
Preheat your air fryer or oven to 400°F (200°C) for the chicken thighs.
Seasoning:
Season the chicken thighs generously with Slap Ya Mama seasoning or your favorite Cajun seasoning. Make sure to coat both sides.
Toss the green beans in a bowl with a bit of avocado oil and season with the same Cajun seasoning.
Cooking:
For the Chicken Thighs: Place the seasoned chicken thighs in the preheated air fryer or oven. Cook for about 20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and the skin is crispy and golden brown. Adjust the time as needed based on your appliance.
For the Green Beans: While the chicken is cooking, preheat another oven or adjust the temperature of your current oven to 425°F (220°C). Spread the seasoned green beans on a baking sheet in a single layer. Roast for about 15 minutes, shaking the pan halfway through, until the beans are tender and slightly charred.
Sriracha Mayo:
While the chicken and green beans are cooking, prepare the sriracha mayo (if making your own) by mixing the mayonnaise, sriracha sauce, and lemon juice (if using) in a small bowl. Adjust the amount of sriracha to your preferred spice level.
Serving:
Once the chicken thighs and green beans are done, let them rest for a few minutes. Serve the crispy Cajun chicken thighs alongside the roasted green beans with a generous dollop of sriracha mayo on the side for dipping.
Nutritional Benefits
This meal is not only bursting with flavor but also offers several nutritional benefits:
Chicken Thighs: A great source of high-quality protein and essential nutrients like iron and zinc. The skin, when cooked properly, adds a satisfying crunch and flavor.
Green Beans: Packed with vitamins A, C, and K, as well as fiber and antioxidants. Roasting them enhances their natural sweetness while keeping them low in calories.
Sriracha Mayo: Adds a spicy kick and creamy texture, making the dish even more enjoyable. Opt for a low-fat mayo if you’re looking to reduce calorie intake.
Tips and Variations
For Extra Crispy Skin: Ensure the chicken thighs are very dry before seasoning. You can also broil them for the last few minutes of cooking to achieve maximum crispiness.
Vegetable Variations: Swap green beans for other veggies like asparagus, Brussels sprouts, or bell peppers. Adjust cooking times accordingly.
Spice Level: If you prefer a milder dish, reduce the amount of Cajun seasoning or sriracha in the mayo.
Enjoy this delightful, crispy Cajun chicken thighs and green beans meal that’s sure to become a favorite in your household! Feel free to share your creations and tag @KevTheDietitian on social media. Happy cooking!
