This Easy Cajun Grilled Chicken is full of flavor and has a nice kick from the Cajun spices. The creamy Alabama white sauce is tangy and makes it exciting!
Grilling chicken has never been this tasty and easy! I love drizzling that white sauce on top—it’s my little secret weapon for turning dinner into something special. 🍗✨
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: I recommend boneless, skinless chicken breasts for this recipe. They grill quickly and stay juicy. If you prefer, you can use thighs, which are a bit more flavorful and tender.
Cajun Seasoning: Feel free to use store-bought Cajun seasoning for ease. If you’re looking to customize, mix paprika, cayenne, garlic powder, and thyme. Adjust the spice level to suit your taste!
Mayonnaise: A key component of the Alabama white sauce, it gives creaminess. You can substitute Greek yogurt for a lighter version, or use a vegan mayo for a plant-based alternative.
Horseradish: This adds a nice kick to the sauce! If you don’t have any, you can replace it with a little hot sauce or add extra mustard for a similar flavor.
What’s the Best Way to Grill Chicken Without Drying It Out?
Grilling chicken can sometimes lead to dryness if not done right. To keep it juicy, start by properly marinating or seasoning your chicken. Here’s how:
- Always pat the chicken dry to help the seasoning stick.
- Rub in olive oil first; this helps create a barrier that locks in moisture.
- Cook on medium-high heat for the right sear. It’s all about getting that char on the outside while maintaining juiciness inside.
- Use a meat thermometer. Cooking to 165°F ensures it’s cooked through, without going too far.
- Let it rest after grilling. This allows juices to redistribute throughout the meat.
Follow these tips, and you’ll enjoy perfectly grilled chicken every time!
Easy Cajun Grilled Chicken With Tangy Alabama White Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Cajun Grilled Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
For the Tangy Alabama White Sauce:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp horseradish (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp salt
- Optional: 1 tsp sugar or honey (to balance acidity)
- Fresh chopped parsley for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time and around 15 minutes of grilling time. Overall, you can expect to have this delicious meal ready in about 30 minutes. Quick and tasty!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by patting the chicken breasts dry with paper towels; this helps the spices stick better. In a small bowl, mix together the Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Rub the chicken breasts with olive oil, then generously coat them with the Cajun spice mix for great flavor.
2. Preheat the Grill:
Now, get your grill ready! Heat it to medium-high (around 375-400°F / 190-205°C). Make sure the grill grates are clean and lightly oiled to prevent the chicken from sticking during grilling.
3. Grill the Chicken:
Once the grill is hot, place the seasoned chicken breasts on it. Grill each side for about 6-8 minutes, or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and have beautiful grill marks. Try not to move the chicken around too much; let it sear nicely!
4. Make the Alabama White Sauce:
While the chicken is grilling, you can mix up that delicious white sauce. In a bowl, combine the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, horseradish, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, salt, and optional sugar or honey. Whisk everything together until it’s smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed!
5. Serve:
Once the chicken is perfectly grilled, let it rest for a few minutes to keep it juicy. Slice the chicken if you like, and then pour that tangy Alabama white sauce generously over the top. Don’t forget to sprinkle some fresh chopped parsley for a burst of color!
6. Enjoy!
Pair your Cajun grilled chicken with your favorite sides—grilled veggies, coleslaw, or a fresh salad work wonderfully. Dig in and enjoy the tasty blend of flavors!
This recipe guarantees juicy, flavorful Cajun chicken topped with a creamy, tangy Alabama white sauce. Perfect for any weeknight dinner!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a great option and tend to stay juicier during grilling due to their higher fat content. Just make sure to adjust the grilling time slightly, as thighs may take a bit longer than breasts to cook through.
How Do I Adjust the Spice Level for Kids?
If you want to make this dish kid-friendly, you can reduce the amount of Cajun seasoning or opt for a milder blend. You can also serve the chicken with the Alabama white sauce on the side, allowing them to control the spice.
Can I Make the White Sauce Ahead of Time?
Yes, the Alabama white sauce can be made in advance! Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just give it a good stir before serving, as it may thicken slightly when chilled.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover Cajun grilled chicken and Alabama white sauce in airtight containers in the fridge. The chicken will keep well for up to 3 days, while the sauce can last about a week. Reheat the chicken gently in the microwave or on the stove before serving!
