Cajun Grilled Chicken with Alabama White Sauce

A Bold and Smoky Southern Delight

Cajun Grilled Chicken with Alabama White Sauce combines the spicy, smoky flavors of Cajun seasoning with the creamy tang of a classic Southern white barbecue sauce. This dish is perfect for summer grilling, offering a beautifully charred exterior with juicy, flavorful meat inside. The heat from the Cajun spices is balanced by the cool, zesty white sauce, making each bite a mouthwatering experience.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bold Cajun Flavor: A rich spice blend infuses the chicken with deep, smoky heat.
• Perfectly Grilled Texture: The high heat creates a crispy, slightly charred crust while keeping the inside juicy.
• Tangy Alabama White Sauce: This creamy, vinegar-based barbecue sauce enhances the heat of the chicken with a cool, peppery bite.
• Easy to Prepare: Minimal ingredients and simple grilling techniques make this an excellent go-to dish for any cookout.
• Versatile Pairing Options: Goes well with cornbread, coleslaw, roasted veggies, or even a fresh garden salad.

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Ingredients

For the Cajun Grilled Chicken

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or 6–8 chicken thighs)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust for spice preference)
• ½ teaspoon ground white pepper
• ½ teaspoon ground cumin
• Juice of 1 lemon

For the Alabama White Sauce

• 1 cup mayonnaise
• ¼ cup apple cider vinegar
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon prepared horseradish
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)

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Directions

1. Prepare the Chicken

1. In a small bowl, mix the paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, thyme, salt, black pepper, cayenne pepper, white pepper, and cumin.
2. Pat the chicken dry with paper towels, then coat evenly with olive oil and lemon juice.
3. Rub the spice mixture generously onto the chicken, ensuring even coverage.
4. Let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes, preferably up to 2 hours in the refrigerator for deeper flavor.

2. Make the Alabama White Sauce

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, lemon juice, horseradish, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper.
2. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.

3. Grill the Chicken

1. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat (about 400°F).
2. Lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking.
3. Place the chicken on the grill and cook for about 5-7 minutes per side (or until internal temperature reaches 165°F).
4. Remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for 5 minutes.

4. Serve and Enjoy

1. Drizzle Alabama White Sauce over the grilled chicken or serve it on the side as a dipping sauce.
2. Garnish with fresh parsley or green onions for a pop of color.
3. Pair with your favorite Southern sides like coleslaw, grilled corn, or baked beans.

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Variations

• Baked Option: Bake the seasoned chicken at 400°F for 20-25 minutes until fully cooked.
• Smoked Chicken: For deeper smoky flavor, smoke the chicken at 250°F for 2 hours.
• Spicy White Sauce: Increase the cayenne and add a dash of hot sauce for extra heat.
• Lighter Version: Use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise in the Alabama White Sauce.
• Bone-In Chicken: Use bone-in, skin-on thighs or drumsticks for extra juiciness, increasing the grilling time by 5-10 minutes.

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Servings & Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Marinate Time: 30 minutes to 2 hours
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 55 minutes (or up to 2 hours, including marination)

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Storage & Reheating

Storing Leftovers

• Refrigerate leftover chicken in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Store Alabama White Sauce in a sealed jar for up to 1 week in the fridge.

Reheating

• Microwave: Heat in 30-second bursts until warm.
• Oven: Reheat at 350°F for 10-12 minutes.
• Grill or Skillet: Warm over medium heat for a few minutes on each side.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Alabama White Sauce different from traditional BBQ sauce?

Alabama White Sauce is a mayonnaise-based barbecue sauce, unlike tomato-based sauces. It has a tangy, peppery flavor that pairs exceptionally well with grilled meats.

Can I make this recipe without a grill?

Yes! You can bake, pan-sear, or air-fry the chicken. Bake at 400°F for 20-25 minutes, pan-sear for about 6 minutes per side, or air-fry at 375°F for 12-15 minutes.

How spicy is Cajun seasoning?

It has a medium level of heat, but you can adjust the cayenne pepper to make it milder or spicier.

What’s the best way to get grill marks on my chicken?

Make sure your grill is hot, and don’t move the chicken for the first 3-4 minutes on each side. Pressing it down lightly with tongs can help.

Can I use store-bought Cajun seasoning?

Yes, but making your own allows you to control the spice levels and avoid added preservatives.

Is this dish keto-friendly?

Yes! The chicken and Alabama White Sauce are both low in carbs, making this a great keto-friendly meal.

What are good side dishes for this recipe?

Try coleslaw, cornbread, mashed potatoes, grilled vegetables, or a fresh garden salad.

Can I marinate the chicken overnight?

Yes! Marinating overnight will enhance the flavor even more.

How do I keep the chicken from drying out on the grill?

Use a meat thermometer and remove the chicken as soon as it reaches 165°F. Letting it rest for a few minutes also helps retain juices.

What’s a good substitute for horseradish in the white sauce?

You can use Dijon mustard or prepared wasabi for a similar sharp flavor.

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Conclusion

Cajun Grilled Chicken with Alabama White Sauce is a perfect balance of smoky, spicy, and tangy flavors. Whether you’re grilling for a summer barbecue or preparing a quick weeknight meal, this recipe is easy to make and packed with Southern charm. Pair it with your favorite sides and enjoy a bold, flavorful dish that’s sure to become a new favorite!

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