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This Cajun Grilled Chicken with Alabama White Sauce has become my go-to for a quick burst of Southern barbecue right at home. With juicy grilled chicken coated in feisty Cajun spices and drizzled with a cool tangy white sauce this recipe is the ticket to bright weeknight dinners and backyard feasts alike. If you want something that truly balances spicy smoky and creamy flavors this dish covers all the bases.
I first tried this for a family cookout and it instantly became the only recipe my cousins request every summer. That drizzle of cool sauce over spicy hot chicken is pure magic.
Ingredients
- Chicken breasts: Boneless and skinless for maximum tenderness. Choose pieces that are even in size for consistent cooking
- Olive oil: Keeps the chicken juicy and helps the spice mix stick
- Cajun seasoning: The kick and heart of the dish. Opt for a quality blend with paprika garlic and cayenne for real depth
- Smoked paprika: Brings a mellow smoky flavor. A Spanish variety enhances richness
- Garlic powder: Gives earthy undertones. Always check the date to ensure potency
- Onion powder: Balances flavors and adds savoriness
- Cayenne pepper: Adds heat. Go easy or bold based on your spice preference
- Salt and pepper: Essential for brightening all the flavors
- Fresh lemon juice: Lifts and brightens the chicken. Look for lemons with thin smooth skin for the juiciest results
- Mayonnaise: The creamy base for the bold white sauce. Full fat varieties create the silkiest texture
- Apple cider vinegar: Gives tangy bite and balances richness
- Dijon mustard: Brings a savory sharpness to the sauce
- Lemon juice: Extra zing for the sauce
- Garlic powder and onion powder: Layer classic BBQ flavor into the sauce
- Cayenne pepper: Pops of spice if you love extra kick
- Black pepper: Freshly ground adds aromatic depth
- Fresh parsley: Adds a fresh herbal finish if used for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken:
- Mix the Cajun seasoning smoked paprika garlic powder onion powder cayenne pepper salt and pepper in a small bowl until evenly combined. Rub olive oil onto the chicken and coat each piece generously with the spice mixture covering every surface. Squeeze the fresh lemon juice over the chicken then let it sit for ten to fifteen minutes so the flavors soak in
- Heat the Grill:
- Preheat your grill to medium high making sure it reaches about four hundred degrees Fahrenheit. A properly heated grill will help create perfect grill marks and seal in juices
- Grill the Chicken:
- Place the marinated chicken on the hot grill and cook for about six to seven minutes per side. Keep a close eye so the spice crust does not burn. Flip once for even cooking. The chicken is finished when it reaches an internal temperature of one hundred sixty five degrees Fahrenheit and the juices run clear
- Rest and Slice:
- Remove the chicken from the grill and transfer to a clean plate. Let it rest for five minutes before slicing. This prevents all the delicious juices from escaping so your chicken stays tender
- Prepare the Alabama White Sauce:
- Combine mayonnaise apple cider vinegar Dijon mustard lemon juice garlic powder onion powder cayenne pepper salt and black pepper in a mixing bowl. Whisk until silky and smooth. Refrigerate for fifteen to twenty minutes so the flavors meld and the sauce thickens slightly
- Serve and Garnish:
- Plate the grilled chicken and drizzle with Alabama white sauce or serve the sauce on the side for dipping. Sprinkle fresh parsley on top if you like a touch of color and garden flavor
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The punchy zest of the lemon and the creamy finish of the mayonnaise are my absolute favorite parts of this recipe. I always sneak an extra little drizzle of white sauce for myself and sneak bites straight from the grill because the aroma instantly takes me back to summer barbecues with my entire family where laughter and good food filled the air.
Storage Tips
Store leftover grilled chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The Alabama white sauce will keep well in a jar or covered bowl in the fridge for four to five days. Let chicken come to room temperature before reheating gently so it stays moist and does not dry out.
Ingredient Substitutions
For a lighter option try using Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise in the white sauce. You can swap chicken thighs for breasts if you prefer dark meat with richer flavor—just adjust grilling time as needed. If Cajun seasoning is not handy a mix of smoked paprika garlic powder cayenne and thyme works surprisingly well.
Serving Suggestions
This chicken pairs beautifully with simple sides like corn on the cob coleslaw roasted potatoes or a crisp green salad. Leftovers work great sliced in wraps or atop a bed of rice with extra sauce on the side. For a party platter cut the chicken into strips and serve alongside fresh veggies and extra sauce for dipping.
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A Bit of History
Cajun seasoning is rooted in Louisiana’s Acadian heritage while Alabama white sauce is an iconic barbecue staple first created in northern Alabama. The crunchy spicy grilled chicken and tangy creamy sauce combination truly bring together these two distinct Southern traditions for a dish that feels both classic and fresh.
Recipe FAQs
- → What makes the Alabama white sauce unique?
Alabama white sauce is a tangy, creamy blend of mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, and spices, resulting in a sharp, rich complement to grilled meats.
- → How spicy is Cajun grilled chicken?
Cajun grilled chicken has a mild to moderate heat, adjustable by increasing or reducing cayenne and Cajun seasoning. You can tailor the spice level to your taste.
- → Can this dish be prepared ahead of time?
Yes, you can marinate the chicken and mix the sauce in advance. Refrigerate until ready to grill and serve for maximum flavor and convenience.
- → What sides pair well with this dish?
Popular pairings include coleslaw, roasted potatoes, grilled corn, or a fresh green salad, enhancing the meal's Southern flair.
- → Do I need a grill to make Cajun grilled chicken?
While grilling is traditional for smoky flavor, you can prepare the chicken using a grill pan or oven broiler if needed.
- → Is this dish gluten free?
Yes, all listed ingredients are gluten free, making it suitable for gluten-sensitive diners. Double-check all packaged ingredients for safety.