Hey, Welcome to the Zaxby’s Cajun Club Sandwich Recipe. Zaxby’s Cajun Club Sandwich is a bold, crispy chicken sandwich layered with spicy Cajun flavor, smoky bacon, fresh veggies, and creamy ranch.
I’ve always felt that this sandwich is one of Zaxby’s most underrated menu items, and every time I order it, I think, You know what, I can totally make this at home.
If you love restaurant-style sandwiches that feel indulgent but doable in your own kitchen, you’re going to love making this with me.
Recipe Overview
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 2 sandwiches
Cuisine: American
Category: Main Dish
History and Origin
Zaxby’s is a Southern fast-casual chain known across the United States for its chicken-focused menu.
The Cajun Club Sandwich was created to bring Southern Cajun spices together with classic American sandwich elements like bacon, lettuce, tomato, and ranch dressing.
What does it taste like?
This sandwich is spicy, smoky, crispy, and creamy all at once. You get heat from the Cajun seasoning, crunch from the fried chicken, richness from bacon and cheese, and a cooling balance from ranch dressing.
By the way, you can also try the Zaxby’s Boneless Wings Recipe.
Ingredients
You will need the following ingredients to start making it:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Boneless chicken breasts | 2 |
| Buttermilk | 1 cup |
| All-purpose flour | 1 cup |
| Cajun seasoning | 2 tablespoons |
| Garlic powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Paprika | 1 teaspoon |
| Salt | ½ teaspoon |
| Black pepper | ½ teaspoon |
| Eggs | 1 |
| Vegetable oil | For frying |
| Bacon strips | 4 |
| Pepper Jack cheese slices | 2 |
| Sandwich buns | 2 |
| Lettuce leaves | 4 |
| Tomato slices | 4 |
| Ranch dressing | ¼ cup |
Equipments
Also, gather the following equipment, as they are necessary to craft your recipe:
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Frying pan or deep skillet
- Tongs
- Paper towels
- Meat thermometer
- Knife and cutting board
How to make Zaxby’s Cajun Club Sandwich
Step 1: Marinate the chicken
I like to start by slicing the chicken breasts in half horizontally. Soak them in buttermilk for at least 10 minutes to keep the chicken juicy and tender.
Step 2: Prepare the Cajun coating
In a bowl, mix flour, Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. In another bowl, whisk the egg.
Step 3: Bread the chicken
Dip each piece of chicken into the egg, then coat it well with the seasoned flour. Press gently so the coating sticks nicely.
Step 4: Fry the chicken
Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat. Fry the chicken for 4–5 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Drain on paper towels.
Step 5: Cook the bacon
While the chicken rests, cook the bacon until crispy. Set it aside and keep it warm.
Step 6: Assemble the sandwich
Toast the buns lightly. Spread ranch dressing on the bottom bun, then add lettuce, tomato, crispy Cajun chicken, Pepper Jack cheese, bacon, and the top bun.
Recipe Card
Zaxby’s Cajun Club Sandwich Recipe
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- I like to start by slicing the chicken breasts in half horizontally. Soak them in buttermilk for at least 10 minutes to keep the chicken juicy and tender.
- In a bowl, mix flour, Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. In another bowl, whisk the egg.
- Dip each piece of chicken into the egg, then coat it well with the seasoned flour. Press gently so the coating sticks nicely.
- Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat. Fry the chicken for 4–5 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Drain on paper towels.
- While the chicken rests, cook the bacon until crispy. Set it aside and keep it warm.
- Toast the buns lightly. Spread ranch dressing on the bottom bun, then add lettuce, tomato, crispy Cajun chicken, Pepper Jack cheese, bacon, and the top bun.
Notes
- I usually serve this sandwich with crispy fries, coleslaw, or even potato wedges.
- If you want to keep it lighter, a simple side salad works great too.
Nutritional Information
Below, I have listed the nutritional information for the recipe:
| Nutrient | Amount (per serving) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 720 kcal |
| Protein | 38 g |
| Carbohydrates | 48 g |
| Fat | 42 g |
| Saturated Fat | 12 g |
| Sodium | 1380 mg |
| Fiber | 3 g |
Serving Suggestions
I usually serve this sandwich with crispy fries, coleslaw, or even potato wedges. If you want to keep it lighter, a simple side salad works great too.
Storage Tips
If you have leftovers, store the fried chicken separately in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Assemble the sandwich fresh to keep everything crispy.
Tips to Make the Cajun Chicken Extra Crispy
I’ve learned that a few small tricks make a big difference when it comes to crispy chicken. Letting the breaded chicken rest for a few minutes before frying helps the coating stick better and fry up perfectly golden.
How to Control the Spice Level at Home
One thing I love about making this sandwich myself is adjusting the heat. You can dial the Cajun seasoning up or down depending on whether you want a mild kick or a bold, spicy bite.
Best Buns for a Zaxby’s-Style Cajun Club Sandwich
The bun matters more than you might think. Soft brioche or classic sandwich buns hold up well against the crispy chicken and creamy ranch without getting soggy.
Homemade Ranch vs Store-Bought Ranch
I’ve tried both, and honestly, each has its place. Store-bought ranch keeps things quick and easy, while homemade ranch adds a fresh, tangy flavor that makes the sandwich feel extra special.
Pan-Frying vs Deep-Frying the Chicken
Both methods work great, but pan-frying is my go-to at home. It uses less oil, is easier to manage, and still gives you that crunchy, restaurant-style texture.
Make It a Meal: Perfect Side Pairings
If you want the full Zaxby’s-style experience, pairing this sandwich with fries, Texas toast, or coleslaw is the way to go. These sides balance the bold Cajun flavors perfectly.
Healthier Variations You Can Try
When I’m craving this sandwich but want something lighter, I swap fried chicken for air-fried or grilled chicken. You still get the Cajun flavor without the extra oil.
Conclusion
Making the Zaxby’s Cajun Club Sandwich at home is easier than you might think, and honestly, it tastes just as satisfying. You control the spice, the crunch, and the freshness, which makes it even better.
With these words, we came to the end of this article. Please share this recipe with your loved ones and give it a 5-star rating at the end of the FAQs section if you enjoy it!
Happy Cooking!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I bake the chicken instead of frying?
Yes, you can bake it at 400°F for about 20 minutes, flipping halfway for even crispiness.
Is the Cajun Club Sandwich very spicy?
It has a medium heat level, but you can reduce the Cajun seasoning if you prefer it milder.
What cheese works best for this sandwich?
Pepper Jack is classic, but Monterey Jack or Cheddar also tastes great.
Can I use store-bought ranch dressing?
Absolutely, store-bought ranch works perfectly and saves time.
Can I make this sandwich ahead of time?
You can prep the chicken and toppings ahead, but assemble just before serving for the best texture.
You will also like the Zaxby’s Texas Toast Recipe.
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