Description
This recipe brings together the comfort of Southern cooking with a golden Parmesan-crusted chicken topping a cheesy cornbread casserole, all finished with a flavorful Cajun butter drizzle. It’s a hearty and satisfying meal that’s perfect for family dinners or potlucks.
Ingredients:
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For the Cornbread Casserole:
- 1 box (8.5 oz) cornbread mix
- 1 can (15 oz) creamed corn
- 1 can (15 oz) whole kernel corn, drained
- 1 cup sour cream
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ teaspoon Cajun seasoning
For the Cajun Butter:
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
Preparation:
Step 1: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken: In a bowl, whisk together Parmesan cheese, panko breadcrumbs, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Dip each chicken breast into the beaten eggs, then thoroughly coat in the Parmesan mixture.
Step 3: Sear the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sear the chicken breasts on both sides until golden brown, about 3–4 minutes per side. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Step 4: Prepare the Cornbread Casserole: In a large bowl, combine the cornbread mix, creamed corn, drained whole kernel corn, sour cream, shredded cheddar cheese, and Cajun seasoning. Mix well until everything is evenly combined. Pour the cornbread mixture into the prepared baking dish.
Step 5: Assemble and Bake: Place the seared chicken breasts on top of the cornbread mixture in the baking dish. Bake uncovered in the preheated oven for 30–35 minutes, or until the cornbread is set and the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Step 6: Prepare the Cajun Butter: While the casserole is baking, melt the butter in a small bowl. Stir in the Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, and chopped fresh parsley.
Step 7: Drizzle and Serve: Once the casserole is out of the oven, drizzle the Cajun butter evenly over the chicken and cornbread. Let it sit for a few minutes before serving.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe combines the best of comfort food with a flavorful twist. The golden Parmesan crust on the chicken adds a delightful crunch, while the cornbread casserole is moist and cheesy. The Cajun butter drizzle elevates the dish with a touch of spice and herbaceousness. It’s an easy-to-make meal that’s sure to become a family favorite.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve with a side of green beans or collard greens for a complete Southern meal.
- A simple salad with a vinaigrette dressing can provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the casserole.
- Pair with a light and fruity dessert like peach cobbler or berry crisp.
Tips:
- For extra flavor, marinate the chicken breasts in buttermilk and hot sauce for at least 30 minutes before coating and searing.
- Add diced jalapeños to the cornbread mixture for an extra kick of heat.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked to a safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- If the cornbread starts to brown too quickly, cover the baking dish with foil during the last 10-15 minutes of baking.
Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Nutritional Information:
- Calories: Approximately 710 kcal per serving
- Protein: Approximately 45g per serving
- Sodium: Varies depending on the ingredients used, but approximately 800-1200mg per serving
Conclusion
The Golden Parmesan Crusted Chicken & Cornbread Casserole with Cajun Butter is a surefire way to bring joy to your dinner table. It’s a comforting, flavorful, and relatively easy dish to make, perfect for any occasion. Enjoy this Southern-inspired delight!
Questions and Answers About This Recipe:
Q1: Can I use a different type of cheese in the cornbread casserole?
A: Yes, you can! Feel free to experiment with different cheeses like Monterey Jack, Pepper Jack, or a blend of cheddar and mozzarella.
Q2: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can assemble the casserole ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking from cold. However, it’s best to make the Cajun butter fresh just before serving.
Q3: Can I use frozen corn instead of canned corn?
A: Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the frozen corn and drain any excess liquid before adding it to the cornbread mixture.
Q4: Can I substitute the panko breadcrumbs with regular breadcrumbs?
A: Yes, you can substitute regular breadcrumbs, but the panko breadcrumbs provide a better, crispier texture. If using regular breadcrumbs, consider toasting them lightly before mixing them with the Parmesan cheese.
Q5: Is the Cajun butter very spicy?
A: The level of spiciness depends on the Cajun seasoning you use. You can adjust the amount of Cajun seasoning to suit your taste. If you’re sensitive to spice, start with a smaller amount and add more to taste.
