16 Southern Cajun Fried Turkey Recipe Cook Up Something Special!
Published on: Apr 10, 2024
If you're looking for a unique and delicious twist on the classic Thanksgiving turkey, look no further than this southern cajun fried turkey recipe. This mouth-watering dish is sure to impress your guests and leave them begging for more. With a crispy, spicy exterior and a juicy, tender interior, this fried turkey will quickly become a holiday favorite. So, grab your apron and get ready to take your Thanksgiving feast to the next level with this easy and delicious recipe.
Main Ingredients: Turkey, Sea Salt, Ground Black Pepper, Unsalted Butter
Deep-fried turkey is a crowd-pleasing dish that is perfect for any occasion. The crispy skin and juicy meat make it a favorite among many, and the Cajun flavors take it to the next level.
While there are many ways to prepare deep-fried turkey, this recipe is a simple and delicious option that will leave your guests wanting more. With a few key ingredients and some basic cooking equipment, you can easily make this mouthwatering dish at home.
2of 20
Deep-Fried Turkey
Main Ingredients: Peanut Oil, Turkey, Creole Seasoning, White Onion
This recipe is perfect for those who want to try their hand at deep-fried turkey but are intimidated by the process. It requires minimal prep work and cooking time, making it a great option for busy weeknights.
To make this simple deep-fried turkey, you will need a whole turkey, vegetable oil, Cajun seasoning, and a deep-fryer. Begin by heating the oil in the fryer to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. While the oil is heating up, pat the turkey dry and season it with Cajun seasoning, making sure to coat it evenly. Carefully place the turkey in the fryer and cook for about 3-4 minutes per pound. Once the turkey is cooked through, let it rest for 15-20 minutes before carving and serving.
3of 20
Simple Deep Fried Turkey
Main Ingredients: Peanut Oil, Turkey, Salt, Ground Black Pepper
If you want to add some extra flavor to your deep-fried turkey, consider using herbs in your seasoning mix. This recipe combines Cajun seasoning with fresh herbs like thyme and rosemary for a delicious twist on the classic deep-fried turkey.
To make this dish, you will need a whole turkey, vegetable oil, Cajun seasoning, fresh herbs, and a deep-fryer. Begin by heating the oil in the fryer to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. While the oil is heating up, prepare the turkey by patting it dry and seasoning it with Cajun seasoning and chopped herbs. Carefully place the turkey in the fryer and cook for 3-4 minutes per pound. Once cooked, let the turkey rest for 15-20 minutes before carving and serving.
4of 20
Deep-Fried Turkey with Herbs
Main Ingredients: Turkey, Peanut Oil, Kosher Salt, Black Ground Pepper
If you have leftover deep-fried turkey, don't let it go to waste! This recipe takes those leftovers and turns them into a delicious and comforting pot pie with a Cajun twist.
To make this pot pie, you will need cooked turkey, vegetables (such as carrots, celery, and onions), chicken broth, Cajun seasoning, butter, flour, and puff pastry. Begin by sautéing the vegetables in butter until they are soft. Add the chicken broth and Cajun seasoning and let it simmer for a few minutes. In a separate pan, make a roux with butter and flour, then add it to the vegetable mixture to thicken the sauce. Add the cooked turkey and let it simmer for a few more minutes. Pour the mixture into a baking dish, cover with puff pastry, and bake in the oven until the pastry is golden brown and the filling is bubbly.
5of 20
Cajun Turkey Pot Pie
Main Ingredients: Peanut Oil, Celery Stalks, White Onion, Green Pepper
This recipe is for those who want to kick up the heat in their deep-fried turkey. The Cajun seasoning adds a spicy kick to the dish, making it perfect for those who love a little heat.
To make this dish, you will need a whole turkey, vegetable oil, Cajun seasoning, and a deep-fryer. Begin by heating the oil in the fryer to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. While the oil is heating up, pat the turkey dry and season it with Cajun seasoning, making sure to coat it evenly. Carefully place the turkey in the fryer and cook for about 3-4 minutes per pound. Once the turkey is cooked through, let it rest for 15-20 minutes before carving and serving.
6of 20
Cajun Deep Fried Turkey
Main Ingredients: Wild Turkey, Red Wine Vinegar, Olive Oil, Dry Sherry
This recipe is similar to the Cajun deep-fried turkey, but it adds a few more ingredients for extra flavor. The addition of garlic, onion, and hot sauce takes this dish to a whole new level.
To make this dish, you will need a whole turkey, vegetable oil, Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, hot sauce, and a deep-fryer. Begin by heating the oil in the fryer to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. While the oil is heating up, pat the turkey dry and season it with Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, and onion powder. Drizzle hot sauce over the turkey, making sure to coat it evenly. Carefully place the turkey in the fryer and cook for 3-4 minutes per pound. Once the turkey is cooked through, let it rest for 15-20 minutes before carving and serving.
7of 20
Cajun Deep-Fried Turkey
Main Ingredients: Butter, Juice, Garlic Juice, Louisiana Style Hot Sauce
This recipe takes the classic deep-fried turkey and adds a Cajun twist to it. With a blend of spices and herbs, this dish is full of flavor and perfect for any occasion.
To make this dish, you will need a whole turkey, vegetable oil, Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, and a deep-fryer. Begin by heating the oil in the fryer to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. While the oil is heating up, pat the turkey dry and season it with Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, and onion powder. Carefully place the turkey in the fryer and cook for about 3-4 minutes per pound. Once the turkey is cooked through, let it rest for 15-20 minutes before carving and serving.
8of 20
Cajun Fried Turkey
Main Ingredients: Turkey, Frying Oil, Butter, Garlic Powder, Creole
This hearty soup is the perfect way to use up leftover deep-fried turkey and andouille sausage. With a variety of beans and Cajun flavors, this dish is sure to warm you up on a cold day.
To make this soup, you will need a package of 15 bean soup mix, cooked turkey, and andouille sausage. Begin by soaking the beans overnight and cooking them according to the package instructions. In a separate pot, sauté the sausage until it is browned, then add the cooked turkey and let it cook for a few more minutes. Combine the beans and sausage mixture and let it simmer for about 20 minutes. Serve hot with some crusty bread for a complete meal.
9of 20
Cajun 15 Bean Soup with Turkey and Andouille Sausage
Main Ingredients: Bean Soup, Water, Chicken Broth, Bay Leaves, Fresh
This French-inspired dish combines Cajun flavors with traditional cassoulet ingredients to create a hearty and flavorful meal. With turkey, sausage, beans, and vegetables, this dish is a complete meal in one pot.
To make this cassoulet, you will need cooked turkey, andouille sausage, white beans, diced tomatoes, onion, celery, chicken broth, and Cajun seasoning. Begin by sautéing the onion and celery in a large pot until they are soft. Add the sausage and let it cook for a few minutes before adding the turkey. Pour in the chicken broth, diced tomatoes, and Cajun seasoning, and let it simmer for about 20 minutes. Add the beans and let it simmer for another 10 minutes. Serve hot with some crusty bread for a delicious and comforting meal.
10of 20
Cajun Turkey & Sausage Cassoulet
Main Ingredients: Olive Oil, Yellow Onion, Bell Peppers, Celery
If you're not a fan of cooking a whole turkey, consider making a deep-fried turkey breast instead. This recipe is perfect for smaller gatherings or for those who prefer white meat.
To make this dish, you will need a turkey breast, vegetable oil, Cajun seasoning, and a deep-fryer. Begin by heating the oil in the fryer to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. While the oil is heating up, season the turkey breast with Cajun seasoning, making sure to coat it evenly. Carefully place the turkey breast in the fryer and cook for about 7-8 minutes per pound. Once the turkey is cooked through, let it rest for 15-20 minutes before slicing and serving.
11of 20
Deep-Fried Turkey Breast
Main Ingredients: Turkey Breast, Seasoning, Turkey, Oil
If you're looking for a creative and delicious way to use leftover deep-fried turkey, consider making these Cajun turkey stuffed sweet potatoes. The combination of sweet and savory flavors is sure to be a hit.
To make this dish, you will need baked sweet potatoes, cooked turkey, Cajun seasoning, butter, and shredded cheese. Begin by scooping out the flesh of the sweet potatoes and mixing it with the cooked turkey and Cajun seasoning. Fill the sweet potato skins with the mixture and top with shredded cheese. Bake in the oven until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Serve hot for a tasty and unique meal.
12of 20
Cajun Turkey Stuffed Sweet Potatoes
Main Ingredients: Sweet Potatoes, Turkey, Bacon, Mushrooms, Mayo, Non
If you're a fan of Cajun flavors and pasta, then this dish is for you. This recipe combines shrimp, sausage, and Cajun seasoning for a flavorful and satisfying pasta dish.
To make this dish, you will need shrimp, andouille sausage, pasta, Cajun seasoning, onion, bell pepper, and garlic. Begin by cooking the pasta according to the package instructions. In a separate pan, sauté the onion, bell pepper, and garlic until they are soft. Add the sausage and let it cook for a few minutes before adding the shrimp and Cajun seasoning. Once the shrimp is cooked through, toss in the cooked pasta and mix well. Serve hot for a delicious and easy meal.
13of 20
Cajun Shrimp & Sausage Pasta
Main Ingredients: Fettuccine, Olive Oil, Large Shrimp, Essence Seasoning
This recipe is perfect for those who want a quick and easy meal that is full of flavor. The Cajun seasoning adds a spicy kick to the shrimp, making it a perfect dish for those who love a little heat.
To make this dish, you will need shrimp, Cajun seasoning, butter, lemon juice, and foil. Begin by preheating your grill to medium-high heat. In a bowl, mix together the shrimp, Cajun seasoning, melted butter, and lemon juice. Place the shrimp mixture in a foil packet and grill for about 8 minutes, or until the shrimp is cooked through. Serve hot with some crusty bread for a complete meal.
14of 20
Cajun Shrimp in Foil
Main Ingredients: Creole Seasoning, Large Shrimp, Cooked Turkey, Medium
If you love Cajun flavors and have an air fryer, then this recipe is for you. This dish is quick and easy to make, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
To make this dish, you will need shrimp, Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and olive oil. Begin by mixing the shrimp with the seasonings and olive oil in a bowl. Transfer the shrimp to the air fryer basket and cook for about 10 minutes at 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Serve hot with your choice of sides for a delicious and flavorful dinner.
15of 20
Air Fryer Cajun Shrimp Dinner
Main Ingredients: Creole Seasoning, Jumbo Shrimp, Cooked Turkey, Medium
For a twist on the classic deep-fried turkey, try using a beer batter. The beer adds a unique flavor and makes the turkey extra crispy and delicious.
To make this dish, you will need a whole turkey, beer, all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, and vegetable oil. Begin by heating the oil in the fryer to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. While the oil is heating up, mix together the beer, flour, baking powder, and salt in a bowl to make the batter. Dip the turkey in the batter, making sure to coat it evenly, then carefully place it in the fryer. Cook the turkey for about 3-4 minutes per pound. Once cooked, let it rest for 15-20 minutes before carving and serving.
16of 20
Beer Battered Deep Fried Turkey
Main Ingredients: All Purpose Flour, Rice Flour, Salt, White Pepper
If you want to add some authentic Cajun flavor to your deep-fried turkey, consider using this Crazy Creole Cookin’ seasoning blend. It combines traditional Cajun spices like paprika, cayenne pepper, and garlic for a delicious and flavorful dish.
To make this dish, you will need a whole turkey, vegetable oil, and Crazy Creole Cookin’ seasoning blend. Begin by heating the oil in the fryer to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. While the oil is heating up, pat the turkey dry and season it with the Crazy Creole Cookin’ blend, making sure to coat it evenly. Carefully place the turkey in the fryer and cook for about 3-4 minutes per pound. Once the turkey is cooked through, let it rest for 15-20 minutes before carving and serving.
17of 20
Crazy Creole Cookin’ Deep Fried Turkey Seasoning
Main Ingredients: Creole Seasoning, Brown Sugar, 100 Orange Juice
If you're a fan of chicken wings, then you'll love these deep-fried turkey wings. The Cajun seasoning adds a spicy kick to the wings, making them a perfect appetizer or main dish.
To make this dish, you will need turkey wings, vegetable oil, Cajun seasoning, and a deep-fryer. Begin by heating the oil in the fryer to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. While the oil is heating up, season the turkey wings with Cajun seasoning, making sure to coat them evenly. Carefully place the wings in the fryer and cook for about 8-10 minutes, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce for a tasty and unique dish.
18of 20
Deep Fried Turkey Wings
Main Ingredients: Turkey Wings, Poultry Seasoning, Onion, Minced Garlic
If you want to switch up your Thanksgiving menu, consider making this delicious and flavorful turkey gumbo. It combines Thanksgiving leftovers with Cajun flavors for a unique and tasty dish.
To make this gumbo, you will need leftover turkey, chicken broth, andouille sausage, okra, onion, bell pepper, celery, and Cajun seasoning. Begin by sautéing the onion, bell pepper, celery, and okra in a large pot until they are soft. Add the chicken broth, turkey, andouille sausage, and Cajun seasoning and let it simmer for about 20 minutes. Serve hot with some rice for a tasty and comforting meal.
This simple and flavorful dish is perfect for those who love Cajun flavors. With just a few ingredients, you can make a delicious and satisfying meal in no time.
To make this dish, you will need shrimp, andouille sausage, Cajun seasoning, and butter. Begin by cooking the sausage in a pan until it is browned. Add the shrimp and Cajun seasoning and let it cook for a few minutes until the shrimp is pink and cooked through. Serve hot with your choice of sides for a quick and easy dinner.
20of 20
Cajun Shrimp and Sausage
Main Ingredients: Medium Shrimp, Turkey Sausage, Zucchini, Red Peppers
If you're a fan of beer can chicken, then you'll love this twist on the classic deep-fried turkey. The beer can chicken seasoning adds a unique and delicious flavor to the turkey, making it a hit with your guests.
To make this dish, you will need a whole turkey, vegetable oil, and beer can chicken seasoning. Begin by heating the oil in the fryer to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. While the oil is heating up, pat the turkey dry and season it with the beer can chicken seasoning, making sure to coat it evenly. Carefully place the turkey in the fryer and cook for about 3-4 minutes per pound. Once the turkey is cooked through, let it rest for 15-20 minutes before carving and serving.
Preparing the Turkey
Choosing the Right Turkey
Before diving into the recipe, it's important to choose the right turkey for frying. Look for a fresh, unfrozen turkey that is around 12-14 pounds. Avoid pre-brined or self-basting turkeys, as they may contain added ingredients that can affect the frying process.
Brining the Turkey
To ensure a juicy and flavorful turkey, it's crucial to brine the bird before frying. Brining involves soaking the turkey in a saltwater solution for several hours, which helps to tenderize the meat and infuse it with flavor. For this cajun fried turkey, mix together water, kosher salt, brown sugar, cajun seasoning, and your choice of herbs and spices in a large container. Submerge the turkey in the brine, cover, and refrigerate for 12-24 hours.
Drying the Turkey
After brining, remove the turkey from the solution and pat it dry with paper towels. This step is important as excess moisture can cause the hot oil to splatter when frying.
Frying the Turkey
Prepping the Fryer
Fill your fryer with enough oil to cover the turkey, leaving at least 5 inches of space from the top. Heat the oil to 375 degrees Fahrenheit, using a thermometer to ensure accuracy.
Coating the Turkey
While the oil is heating up, mix together flour, cajun seasoning, and any additional spices and herbs in a bowl. Coat the turkey with the mixture, making sure to cover all sides evenly.
Frying the Turkey
Once the oil has reached the desired temperature, carefully lower the turkey into the fryer. Use a long-handled utensil to avoid getting splattered with hot oil. Fry the turkey for about 3-4 minutes per pound, or until the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
Letting the Turkey Rest
Once the turkey is fully cooked, remove it from the fryer and place it on a wire rack to cool. Let it rest for at least 20 minutes before carving to allow the juices to redistribute.
Serving and Enjoying
Once the turkey has rested, carve it into slices and serve with your favorite Thanksgiving side dishes. The crispy, flavorful skin and tender, juicy meat will have everyone coming back for seconds. So, skip the traditional oven-roasted turkey this year and give this southern cajun fried turkey recipe a try. Your taste buds will thank you.