Cajun Grilled Chicken with Alabama White Sauce

There’s nothing quite like the bold, smoky flavors of Cajun-spiced grilled chicken paired with the creamy, tangy kick of Alabama white sauce. This dish brings together two regional Southern favorites: the deep, spicy essence of Cajun seasoning and the cool, zesty contrast of the famous white barbecue sauce from Northern Alabama. It’s a match made in grilling heaven!

this RECIPE FOR LATER

Perfect for summer cookouts, family dinners, or even meal prep, this recipe is packed with flavor, easy to make, and sure to become a favorite. Whether you’re firing up the grill for a weekend feast or looking for a quick and delicious weeknight meal, this Cajun grilled chicken will deliver juicy, spicy, and satisfying bites every time.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Big, bold flavors: The Cajun spice blend creates a smoky, slightly spicy crust on the chicken, while the Alabama white sauce adds a creamy, tangy finish.
• Simple ingredients, easy preparation: No complicated techniques or hard-to-find ingredients—just straightforward, delicious food.
• Perfect for grilling season: This dish is great for outdoor barbecues, but you can also make it on a stovetop grill pan if needed.
• Versatile and customizable: Adjust the spice level to your preference, and serve the chicken with your favorite sides for a complete meal.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Cajun Grilled Chicken:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 ½ tablespoons Cajun seasoning
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust for spice preference)
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

For the Alabama White Sauce:

• 1 cup mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon prepared horseradish
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon honey

How to Make Cajun Grilled Chicken with Alabama White Sauce

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by patting the chicken breasts dry with a paper towel. This helps the seasoning stick better and ensures a nice sear on the grill.

In a small bowl, mix the Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper. Drizzle the olive oil and lemon juice over the chicken breasts, then rub the seasoning mix all over the chicken, making sure each piece is well coated. Let the chicken sit for about 15–20 minutes at room temperature to allow the flavors to infuse.

Step 2: Make the Alabama White Sauce

While the chicken is marinating, prepare the Alabama white sauce. In a medium bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, horseradish, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, and honey.

Give it a taste and adjust the seasonings if needed—if you like it tangier, add a little more vinegar; if you want more heat, add extra horseradish. Cover and refrigerate the sauce until you’re ready to use it. The flavors will develop even more as it sits.

Step 3: Grill the Chicken

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (around 375–400°F). If using a grill pan, heat it over medium-high heat and lightly oil the surface to prevent sticking.

Place the chicken breasts on the grill and cook for about 5–6 minutes per side, depending on thickness. Use tongs to flip them only once to get those beautiful grill marks. The internal temperature should reach 165°F when done.

Once the chicken is cooked through, transfer it to a plate and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This helps retain the juices, making the chicken extra tender.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy

Drizzle the Alabama white sauce generously over the grilled chicken, or serve it on the side as a dipping sauce. Garnish with fresh parsley or green onions for an extra pop of color.

Pair this dish with grilled veggies, coleslaw, cornbread, or even a simple side salad for a well-rounded meal.

Helpful Tips

• Marinate for More Flavor: If you have time, marinate the chicken for at least an hour (or even overnight) in the spice mix and lemon juice. This deepens the flavor and helps keep the chicken juicy.
• Control the Heat: Cajun seasoning can be spicy, so if you prefer a milder dish, reduce or omit the cayenne pepper. You can always add a bit of hot sauce on the side for those who want more kick.
• Use a Meat Thermometer: To avoid overcooking, use a meat thermometer to check that the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
• Make the Sauce Ahead of Time: Alabama white sauce tastes even better after a few hours in the fridge, making it a great make-ahead condiment.

Recipe Details

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 12 minutes
• Total Time: 27 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Grilling
• Cuisine: Southern
• Diet: Gluten-Free

Notes

• Leftover Alabama white sauce can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
• This sauce is great on more than just chicken—try it with grilled shrimp, roasted vegetables, or even as a dressing for coleslaw.
• If you don’t have a grill, you can cook the chicken in a cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat for the same smoky effect.

Nutritional Information

Per serving (without additional sides):

• Calories: ~320
• Protein: 40g
• Carbohydrates: 3g
• Fat: 16g
• Sodium: 620mg
• Fiber: 1g

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a great alternative because they tend to stay juicier on the grill. Adjust the cooking time slightly, as they may take a couple of extra minutes per side.

How spicy is this dish?

It has a medium level of heat, but you can adjust it to your taste. Reduce the cayenne pepper for a milder flavor, or add a pinch of red pepper flakes for extra heat.

Can I bake this instead of grilling?

Yes! Bake the seasoned chicken in a preheated oven at 400°F for about 20–25 minutes, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. Then, broil for 2 minutes to get a crispy finish.

What can I serve with this dish?

This chicken pairs well with grilled corn, mashed potatoes, coleslaw, or roasted vegetables. A side of cornbread or dirty rice would also complement the Cajun flavors perfectly.

Storage Instructions

• Refrigerate: Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Reheat: Warm in a skillet over medium heat or in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes. Avoid microwaving too long, as it may dry out the chicken.
• Freeze: You can freeze the grilled chicken (without the sauce) for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Related Recipes

If you loved this Cajun Grilled Chicken with Alabama White Sauce, you might also enjoy:

• BBQ Chicken Salad with Creamy Avocado Dressing

• Beijing Beef– Crispy, Sweet, and Spicy Perfection

Conclusion

This Cajun Grilled Chicken with Alabama White Sauce is the perfect blend of bold spices and creamy, tangy goodness. Whether you’re a grilling pro or a beginner, this recipe is easy to follow and delivers delicious results every time. Fire up your grill, whip up a batch of that famous white sauce, and get ready to enjoy a taste of the South!

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