Cajun Buttermilk Baked Chicken

First of all, let’s get an understanding of what exactly is buttermilk. Traditional buttermilk is basically the liquid that’s left over from churning butter; as it sits for a period of time, the milk separates from the cream, allowing naturally occurring lactic acid-producing bacteria in the milk to ferment. Alas, buttermilk.

Buttermilk is a magical ingredient that when infused with chicken, transforms the poultry into melt-in-your-mouth goodness. It also adds tang to dressings and ice creams, and it’s the not-so-secret ingredient in fluffy pancakes.

When used as a chicken marinade, buttermilk infuses itself into the chicken, providing added flavor and moisture. Because buttermilk is slightly acidic, it naturally tenderizes by breaking down the protein in the chicken, resulting in tender, flavorful pieces of poultry.

Once marinated, the chicken can either be breaded and deep fried or baked in its juices and more buttermilk.

Enjoy your juicy, tangy, full-flavored chicken with red beans & rice, dirty rice, mashed potatoes or even your favorite vegetable medley or salad!