If you’re craving a crispy, flavorful snack that’s both easy to make and packed with protein, my Cajun Beef Jerky Chips are the perfect solution! I crafted this recipe by seasoning thinly sliced beef with a homemade Cajun-inspired mix, then air frying it to crispy perfection—no marinating needed. This healthy, cost-effective snack is so simple to prepare, and once you try it, you’ll be hooked!
Why I Love This Recipe
I crafted my Cajun Beef Jerky Chips as a quick, flavorful, and protein-packed snack that’s perfect for anyone craving a bold treat without the hassle! This recipe uses thinly sliced beef seasoned with a fiery Cajun blend, then air fried until crispy—no marinating or long dehydration time required! It’s a healthier, more affordable alternative to store-bought jerky, which is often loaded with preservatives.
I made this recipe to satisfy my kids’ love for beef jerky, but without the long prep time. Just like my Beef Jerky Chips and Air Fryer Jerky Chips, this snack is ready in under an hour and packs a punch of flavor! It’s the perfect on-the-go option like my Ground Beef Jerky and Teriyaki Beef Sticks, and once you try it, you’ll wonder why you ever bought jerky! Get started on this simple and delicious snack today!
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 1 lbs Beef – thinly sliced lean beef cuts like sirloin or round roast against the grain. The thinner the slice, the more crispier.
- 2 tsp Old Bay Seasoning – Old Bay Seasoning is a mixture of spices celery salt, and paprika found in the seafood section of grocery stores. Used to provide the main flavors found in the seasoning.
- 2 tsp Cajun Seasoning – mix of paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, and dried oregano that can be found at the grocery store. Used to provide the main flavor found in the seasoning mix.
- 2 tsp Lemon Pepper – premixed seasoning found in the spices section. Helps add additional zesty flavors to the seasoning mix. Make sure there is no salt added.
- 1/2 tsp Cayenne Pepper – ground red cayenne pepper. Used to give the seasoning extra heat.
- 1 tsp Sweetener – use your preferred sweetener.
🥩 Beef Note
For optimal results in making Beef Jerky Chips, opt for Lean Cuts such as Round or Sirloin, sliced thinly to about 1/8 of an inch. The thickness of the slices greatly affects both the cooking time and the texture, with thinner slices resulting in a crispier chip.
Essential Kitchen Equipment
Directions
Step 1 In a small bowl, combine Old Bay Seasoning, Cajun seasoning, lemon pepper, cayenne pepper and sweetener. Stir until the seasoning is well mixed.
Step 2 Place the beef slices flat on a surface and evenly sprinkle the seasoning on both sides.
Step 3 Arrange the beef slices in a single layer on the air fryer tray. Air fry at 200°F for 45-60 minutes.
🌀 Air Frying Pro Tip
When placing beef slices in the air fryer tray, ensure they are Single-Stacked to achieve maximum crispiness.
⏲️ Cooking Time Pro Tip
Cooking times for the beef jerky chips will vary depending on the thickness of the beef slices used. Thinner Slices will Require Less Time to cook and will result in a crispier texture, while Thicker Slices Will Need More Time to cook through.
Step 4 Once finished, let the beef slices cool for 5 minutes before serving. Note: The cooking time may vary based on the thickness of the beef.
Recipe Variations
For a savory variation, try my Beef Jerky Chips. It has the same crispy texture but with a more subtle, savory flavor. If you want something lighter, my Air Fryer Jerky Chips are a great option, offering a crispy and satisfying snack with fewer calories. Both are quick, easy, and delicious alternatives!
Pairing Recommendations
Serve these beef jerky chips alongside my Air Fried Artichoke Hearts for a creamy contrast. You can also add some of my Macadamia Onion Garlic Nuts for an extra burst of flavor. Both make perfect finger food snacks to complement the boldness of the jerky chips!
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to marinate the beef before cooking?
No, this recipe doesn’t require marinating. Simply dry season the beef and air fry it for a quick, easy snack.
How thin should I slice the beef?
Slice the beef ideally to 1/8 inch thick. You usually can pick up shaved beef often used to make Philly cheese steaks at your local grocery stores.
Can I use a regular oven instead of an air fryer?
Yes, you can. Preheat the oven to 200°F and bake for 1.5-2 hours, or until crispy, flipping the beef halfway through. Just make sure to use a baking rack so both sides of the beef are baked evenly.
What kind of beef works best for jerky chips?
Lean cuts like flank steak, sirloin, or round steak work best as they are easier to slice thinly and have less fat.
Storage Tips
To store leftovers, place them in an airtight container at room temperature, and they will stay crisp and flavorful for 1 month. For extended storage, you can use a ziplock bag in the freezer, where they will remain good for up to 6 months.
Other Recipes You Might Like
- Candied Glazed Macadamia Nuts
- Air Fried Salt n Vinegar Zucchini Chips
- Crispy Baked Garlic Kale Chips
- Sour Cream and Onion Dip
Watch How To Make It
Cajun Beef Jerky Chips
Ingredients
- 1 lb Beef thinly sliced, shaved beef
- 2 tsp Old Bay Seasoning
- 2 tsp Cajun Seasoning
- 2 tsp Lemon Pepper
- 1/2 tsp Cayenne Pepper
- 1 tsp Sweetener your preferred sweetener
Instructions
- Gather all the ingredients.
- In a small bowl, combine Old Bay Seasoning, Cajun seasoning, lemon pepper, cayenne pepper, and sweetener. Stir to combine the spices well.
- Lay the beef slices flat and evenly sprinkle the seasoning on both sides.
- Place the seasoned beef slices in a single layer on the air fryer tray. Air fry at 200°F for 45-60 minutes.
- Once done, let the beef slices cool for 5 minutes before serving. Note: Cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of the beef.
Nutrition
*Values Based Per Serving
